At United University of Nursing-United Nursing College (UUN-UNC), our commitment to making a difference goes beyond the classroom. In October, we were proud sponsors of the Alzheimer’s Association's Walk to Remember in Temecula and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Walk in Murrieta. It is a testament to the passion and drive of our faculty, staff, and supporters who came together to make a significant impact on the fight against Alzheimer's and Breast Cancer.
Alzheimer’s Association's-A Walk to Remember
On October 7th, we proudly sponsored the Alzheimer's Walk in Temecula, California, where our dedicated team not only supported a vital cause but emerged as the top fundraising team. What made this event even more special for me was the opportunity I was provided to share my own story as someone who has witnessed the profound impact of Alzheimer's disease both personally and professionally. I have cared for many persons living with dementia in my career and have taught dementia care to students for the past 16 years. Approximately 12 years ago, my own mother began her battle against this relentless condition. I have had the privilege and heartache of supporting her through the various stages. This story is one of many shared among our staff and faculty here at UUN, as well as the family, friends, and caregivers of the estimated 13 million persons living with Alzheimer’s in the United States alone. In fact, there are over 55 million persons living with dementia worldwide with approximately 60-70% of all cases being attributed to Alzheimer’s (WHO, 2023).
The Alzheimer's Walk is more than just a fundraising event; it's a day filled with hope, unity, and resilience. There is a “Promise Garden” at the event where participants choose the color of flower that symbolizes how Alzheimer’s has impacted them.
Here is what each color flower symbolizes:
Blue: I have Alzheimer’s disease
Yellow: I am supporting or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s/dementia
Purple: I have lost someone to Alzheimer’s/dementia
Orange: I support the cause and the Alzheimer’s Association's vision of a world without Alzheimer’s
If you have never attended a “Walk to Remember”, it is an indescribable feeling to be part of the opening ceremony and the moment of silence as the sea of colorful windmill flowers makes a whispering sound in the wind. It is quite surreal.
Double the Impact - Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Walk
Our commitment to supporting meaningful causes didn't end with the Alzheimer's Walk. On October 8th, UUN-UNC's passionate team was a sponsor for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Walk. Participating in these back-to-back events demonstrated UUN-UNC’s unwavering dedication to raising awareness, supporting research, and, most importantly, standing in solidarity with those affected by these two life-altering diseases.
At UUN-UNC, we believe in the power of education, compassion, and community. Our participation as sponsors and as the top fundraising team at the Alzheimer's Walk was a powerful testament to these values. We will continue our efforts to create positive change in the world and support important causes like Alzheimer's and breast cancer research. Together, we can make a significant impact, foster hope, and, ultimately, improve the lives of those affected by these diseases.
World Health Organization. (2023). Dementia.