Firefighter's Wife Advocates for Alzheimer's Awareness Linked to Toxic Foam Exposure

The City of Glens Falls Common Council meeting on December 10, 2024, featured a poignant address from Heather Glenn Hall, a resident of Queensbury, who shared her personal journey with her husband Doug's battle against Alzheimer's disease. Hall's testimony highlighted the complexities of the disease, which she described as "sneaky," often masked by stress and fatigue. She recounted the emotional toll of navigating medical appointments and the devastating realization of her husband's condition at a young age.

In her speech, Hall emphasized the multifactorial nature of Alzheimer's, detailing her extensive research into its causes, including the role of heavy metals and chronic inflammation. She revealed that Doug had undergone 31 chelation treatments to address high levels of toxic metals in his system, which she linked to his career as a firefighter. Hall pointed out that firefighters are exposed to harmful substances, including PFAS from firefighting foam, which may contribute to health issues like Alzheimer's.

Hall expressed gratitude towards the Glens Falls firefighting community for their support during this challenging time, urging city council members to recognize the sacrifices made by firefighters. She called for greater awareness of the health risks associated with firefighting, particularly the potential link between occupational exposure and diseases like Alzheimer's.

The meeting underscored the importance of community support and the need for ongoing discussions about the health implications for first responders. Hall's heartfelt appeal served as a reminder of the human impact behind public health issues, prompting council members to consider the broader implications of occupational hazards faced by firefighters in Glens Falls.