More than 8,000 people in Orange and Sullivan Counties are currently living with dementia. In recognition of the profound impact this disease has on individuals, families, and communities, the Liberty Rotary Club was proud to support this year’s Orange and Sullivan Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
The walk is dedicated not only to those afflicted with this devastating illness, but also to everyone whose lives have been touched by it, an illness that steals not only health and relationships, but precious memories.
Held on October 25th, the event was a moving tribute featuring speakers who have been personally affected by Alzheimer’s, as well as advocates leading the fight for a cure.
As has become a powerful tradition, participants carried pinwheel flowers, each color representing a different connection to the cause:
- Blue Flower – I have Alzheimer’s
- Purple Flower – I have lost someone to Alzheimer’s
- Yellow Flower – I am supporting or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s
- Orange Flower – I support the cause and vision of a world without Alzheimer’s
- White Flower – Symbolizing the day when a cure is found
These flowers were proudly raised during the walk and then planted together in a Garden of Hope, serving as a poignant reminder of the collective determination to end this disease.
The Liberty Rotary Club is honored to stand with all those affected and remains committed to supporting the quest for a future free from Alzheimer’s and dementia. This year’s event raised over $161,000 thus far, a new record. Funds are used for education, assisting families and research that we hope will lead to the day when this walk is no longer needed.
