Message from the CEO
Dear friends,
As I write this, AFTD stands at a pivotal point in its history — as do I, in my own story. After nearly two decades leading this remarkable organization, this spring I will be retiring. I find myself reflecting on how far we have come and the incredible people who have made this progress possible.
When I joined AFTD, we were a small organization with an ambitious mission: to bring help, hope, and understanding to families affected by FTD, and to drive the science that will lead to effective treatments and, one day, a cure. Thanks to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, advocates, and partners, that mission has grown into a powerful movement, one rooted in compassion and driven by determination.
As I prepare to pass the baton, I am filled with gratitude and a deep sense of hope. The future is bright, and AFTD has never been stronger. I have full confidence that the momentum we are building across FTD diagnoses, treatments, and care will continue during this transition. Our new strategic plan will continue to guide a growing and highly capable organization as it advances care, drives research, and ensures that our mission is truly inclusive of everyone affected by FTD.
The next three years will focus on four priorities: advancing diagnoses, treatments, and cures for all; ensuring high-quality care and support are accessible at every stage of the journey; increasing awareness and advocating for policy change to improve the lives of those impacted by FTD; and strengthening and diversifying the organization to ensure meaningful impact for all we serve.
By scaling AFTD’s core support services, developing new ways to connect people to support, and addressing the holistic needs of families, we will provide meaningful help to families on the FTD journey. AFTD volunteers are a vital part of our education and awareness programs, and we are thankful for their dedication.
As we pave the path forward, we will deepen our partnerships with scientists, clinicians, and biopharmaceutical companies to accelerate treatment development, while educating our community on how they can engage in research to ensure clinical trial readiness.
We will continue to expand our advocacy efforts so that legislation and research funding support our growing community. Our volunteers are already hard at work, and we are expanding these efforts at the state level.
It has been a privilege to serve alongside you in this mission. Together, we have built an organization that is relentless in pursuit of a world free of FTD — and I know that you will finish what we began.
With deep appreciation,
Susan L-J Dickinson, MSGC
Chief Executive Officer
