Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Diane S. Book, MD, associate professor of neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, and medical director of the Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin Stroke Program will receive the 2016 Alzheimer’s Association Physician Award at the 30th Annual Wisconsin Network Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias, May 1-3, 2016, in Wisconsin Dells. The award recognizes a physician whose professional dedication serves as a model to others.
Dr. Book is co-founder of the Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin Stroke Program and specializes in cerebrovascular disorders and dementias including Alzheimer’s disease and vascular cognitive disorders. She is an advocate for early detection and early diagnosis and is passionate about connecting families to help and support. She has been a leader and a tremendous advocate for the Alzheimer’s Association for many years.
When the Alzheimer’s Association launched its Direct Connect Physician Referral Program last year, Dr. Book led the way as the leading physician referrer, sharing with families and persons with dementia in her clinic the importance of being connected to support resources. “I approach patients from the perspective of doctor as teacher,” said Dr. Book. “I see every patient encounter as an opportunity to teach them how to heal, to recover, and how to stay well in the future.”
In addition to Direct Connect referrals, Dr. Book is a strong supporter of education programs and support services offered through the Alzheimer’s Association. She periodically visits the Alzheimer’s support group held at Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin to answer questions from family care partners and provide medical updates. She is also an enthusiastic supporter of the many Memory Cafés in Southeastern Wisconsin and their efforts to build community and provide social engagement for those with dementia.
Award winners are selected based on their outstanding contributions as caregivers to those with Alzheimer’s disease in Wisconsin. Other winners include:
Professional Award: Cori Marsh (Janesville)
Professional Award: Lizzie Gernon (Sun Prairie)
Organization Award: Bridges Library System (Waukesha)
Family Caregiver Award: Nan Jagemann (Manitowoc)
Courage Award: Michael Endsley (Sheboygan Falls)
Special Service Award: Martin Schreiber (Milwaukee)
Advocacy Award: Representative Mike Rohrkaste (Neenah)
Advocacy Award: Representative Dianne Hesselbein (Middleton)
The Outstanding Caregiver Awards are coordinated by the Alzheimer’s Association Wisconsin Network as part of their annual statewide conference held each May. The state conference highlights innovative approaches to Alzheimer’s care, examines critical research initiatives and facilitates the sharing of ideas among dedicated professionals and family members. The 2016 State Conference will be held May 1-3 at the Kalahari Resort Convention Center in Wisconsin Dells.
More Information is available at www.alzwi.org or through the conference planning office at 608-446-4206.
The Alzheimer’s Association is a national non-profit organization whose mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. For more information about Alzheimer’s disease and local services visit www.alz.org or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.