Seth Rogen took some time out from signing up for a zillion projects and generally being his usually goofy self, to head to Washington to speak to Congress about research for Alzheimer’s disease. Yes, this is Rogen being serious for a moment and it’s worth a watch.
The actor generally doesn’t overshare about his personal life, but he does so here, telling politicians about watching his mother-in-law succumb to the disease, with the signs first showing in her mid-fifties. It was an education for the actor on Alzheimer’s and how the disease can leave people unable to care for themselves or identify the loved ones around them. And he wants awareness and research to go into the battle to find a cure. He’s doing his part setting up the organization Hilarity For Charity, and he wants the government to do theirs.
“I’ve personally seen the massive amount of financial strain this disease causes, and if the American people ever decide to reject genitalia-driven comedy, I will no longer be able to afford it,” he said. “I can’t begin to imagine how people with more limited incomes are dealing with this … I’m here, simply, to show people that they are not alone.”
Watch his full statement below followed by his critical tweets of the politicians who couldn’t be bothered to show up.
Not sure why only two senators were at the hearing. Very symbolic of how the Government views Alzheimer’s. Seems to be a low priority.
— Seth Rogen (@Sethrogen) February 26, 2014
.@SenatorKirk pleasure meeting you. Why did you leave before my speech? Just curious.
— Seth Rogen (@Sethrogen) February 26, 2014
All those empty seats are senators who are not prioritizing Alzheimer’s. Unless more noise is made, it won’t change. pic.twitter.com/xDW6tlMHmH
— Seth Rogen (@Sethrogen) February 26, 2014
