The Dearborn City Council meeting held on April 22, 2025, featured a poignant address from resident Kristen Pfeiffer, who shared her personal connection to Huntington's disease. With over 30 years of residency in Dearborn, Pfeiffer highlighted the impact of the disease on her family, particularly following the loss of her husband a year prior due to complications from Huntington's.
Pfeiffer detailed the genetic nature of Huntington's disease, explaining that each child of an affected parent has a 50 percent chance of inheriting the condition. She revealed that her 26-year-old daughter recently learned she carries the gene, underscoring the urgency for medical advancements in treatment and potential cures.
During her address, Pfeiffer referenced a recent study in Ohio involving a groundbreaking human trial that introduced an injection into the brain of a patient with Huntington's disease. While the long-term effects of this trial remain to be seen, she expressed hope for its success and the possibility of a cure.
In her advocacy efforts, Pfeiffer mentioned her involvement with the Huntington's Disease Society of America (HDSA) and her role as a leader in Michigan. She is actively working on legislation aimed at raising awareness and support for Huntington's disease, with plans to recognize the condition in May.
The meeting underscored the importance of community support and advocacy for health issues, as residents like Pfeiffer strive to bring attention to critical medical challenges facing families in Dearborn.