Guest Blogger...
Brooke Vacker
The
“Arthritis Walk” raises money and creates awareness each year to
fight the nation’s leading cause of disability. The community takes a stand and
“moves together” to help prevent and treat this serious and painful disease by raising funds for research to find a cure.
Walkers
participate for the benefit of friends or family members with arthritis. Walkers
with arthritis wear blue hats as a sign of their commitment to take control of
their condition. The event features both a three-mile and a one-mile course. There
is arthritis information and activities for the entire family. Dog owners are
encouraged to bring their dogs to participate in the event.
Arthritis can be painful and
debilitating and not only affects the elderly, but also, children early in
life. This project made me aware of the suffering so many other people
experience in their daily lives just to function. While conducting my service
project I learned of the strength that is within so many people, that enables
them to cope with chronic pain. I also felt good about what I was doing and the
act made me feel good about myself.
Taking images of the event
allowed me to meet countless new people and I discovered how many people want
to contribute “something” to those less fortunate. The number of people who I
found want to help is inspiring. The event also allowed me to strengthen my
family ties. My father was proud that I wanted to help him out and participate
in the event. People my age tend only to be concerned with our immediate surroundings.
We are wrapped up in ourselves and unaware and not concerned about the
suffering of others or the struggles people with chronic illnesses have to
endure.
"Alligator" Ron Bergeron, Emeritus
Honorary Chair is a successful entrepreneur, rodeo competitor and runner who
never strays far from his "country" roots the town of Davie. Mr. Bergeron suffered from
severe arthritis for more than 8 years and had to have a joint replacement. He
knows first hand what people suffering from arthritis have to go through.
Town of Davie Mayor Judy
Paul, Community Honorary Chair is an award winning retired Broward County educator. Mayor Paul lives with arthritis and has had a
knee replacement due to this disease. Mayor Paul understands the mission and
believes in the difference the Arthritis Foundation is making in the lives of
people and children living with arthritis. A proponent of the preservation of
our environment, Ms. Paul has worked tirelessly to assure that preservation of Davie’s
historic roots and open space.
Participating in events such as
The Arthritis Foundation Walk helps to develop a sensitivity towards others,
community spirit, and citizenship. Joining the 2013 Arthritis Walk, you become part of “Let's Move
Together”, a nationwide community
that encourages people to prevent or treat arthritis through movement.
No comments:
Post a Comment