The human body is a curiosity. Over the centuries we have come to understand it greatly, and yet, many of its wonders still elude us. There are still many diseases that plague human beings and even with all of the advancements in technology over the last few decades, we still lack long-lasting, definite cures.
That being said, hopefully, a cure may soon be on the horizon. World-renowned billionaire Bill Gates has recently stated that he plans to donate $100 million to research for a cure to alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The donations come in two separate forms: one $50 million donation to a venture capital fund, Dementia Discovery Fund, and another $50 million donation to additional startup ventures all working on alzheimer’s cures.
Many billionaires and philanthropists have donated in the past, but what makes this occasion so unique is that it is a donation coming directly from Gates’ personal bank account. In most cases, the donation would be coming through his philanthropic organization, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. It goes to show just how serious he is about this cause.
In an official statement from Gates, he stated the severity of the disease and how it can be a heartbreaking ordeal to witness. “I know how awful it is to watch people you love struggle as the disease robs them of their mental capacity, and there is nothing you can do about it.”
The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s and, according to the Alzheimer’s Society, there are an estimated 46 million people currently suffering from this debilitating disease throughout the world. What’s more, that number is expected to double by 2050.
Luckily, technology is increasing so rapidly, along with our knowledge of the human brain, and so, a cure could be within reach. We just need to do more to help find one. And Gates hopes this large donation will be that push to end the search.
If you are interested in learning more about Alzheimer’s, click here.
