A statement from Dennis Moore.

I have always tried to be open and candid throughout my career in public service, both as Johnson County District Attorney and as a member of Congress representing Kansas’ Third District. This remains true today, even though I am no longer a public servant. That is why I have some news to share today and by doing so, Stephene and I hope we can help others in the same situation.

I am in the early phases of Alzheimer’s disease. After an initial consultation in February, 2011, I had diagnostic testing and further neurological evaluations both here in Kansas City and in St. Louis. I received the final diagnosis in June, 2011. It is not an easy thing to hear. But this is the hand I have been dealt, and Stephene and I are committed to using the opportunity we have to help make sure this insidious disease gets more public attention.

The good news is that I feel fine and I’m truly enjoying being with my family and friends on a more regular basis since I retired from Congress. I know there will be good days and some not so good days over the long term. I wanted to make this announcement now to help draw some attention to Alzheimer’s and to early onset dementia.

In a short period of time, we have met some amazing doctors and other professionals who are working day and night to research this disease and make all of us more aware of it. Whatever we can do to help in the weeks, months and years ahead, we will.

I am blessed to have such great support around me, beginning with my wife Stephene and our children and grandchildren. Stephene and I are equally blessed to have friends and acquaintances who are there for us. We all live in such a great community and I never take any of these blessings for granted.

Stephene and I plan to be active in working with the Heart of America Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, so you will hear from us every so often. In the meantime, we appreciate your respect for our privacy as we also focus on my own health.

Thank you.