Columbine Health staff recently united in a powerful show of support at the annual Walk to End Alzheimer's®, contributing over $11,000 toward the Alzheimer's Association - Colorado Chapter’s goal of $41,500.
The Walk, held across more than 600 communities nationwide, stands as the largest fundraiser for Alzheimer's care, support, and research globally. Participants of all ages and abilities joined together, embodying a collective determination to combat this disease. Fundraising will continue through December 31st, with exciting campaigns like "A Sip to Remember," the Promise Garden Champions Club, and thank-you card initiatives to help us finish strong. With their overall progress at 92%, let’s work together to help them reach 100%!
Memory care is integral to Columbine Health's commitment to its communities. New Mercer Commons offers specialized Assisted and Memory Care Assisted Living, including short-term respite programs as available. Columbine West Health and Rehab and Lemay Avenue Health and Rehab provide round-the-clock skilled nursing care, along with specialized therapies and secure memory units. Each memory care unit features a secure courtyard, fostering a safe and supportive environment. Notably, all Columbine Health care staff undergo SPECAL training through a partnership with Dementia Together. The SPECAL method, rooted in leveraging intact memories from individuals' pasts, enhances well-being and quality of life for those living with dementia.
In the United States alone, more than 7 million individuals are affected by Alzheimer's, with over 11 million unpaid caregivers providing crucial support. The Association's mission to provide education and support is pivotal, aiming not only to enhance daily life for those affected by dementia but also to propel groundbreaking research toward effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
Andrew Baker, Administrator of The Worthington in Fort Collins, shared a heartfelt keynote address during the event: "Today, we reflect on our loved ones and all those affected by Alzheimer’s. We consider our WHY. My WHY? Of course, I walk for my mom but also for my dad, my mom’s primary caregiver, who tirelessly ensures her happiness, safety, and well-being. His unwavering devotion inspires me daily as he learns to navigate and walk with this disease alongside her. I walk for my three sisters, who struggle with the rapid changes of this disease and the changes in our mom, and I cherish their support every day as I know this is not easy for them. I walk for all the caregivers who selflessly provide the same support to their loved ones. I walk for the residents I have cared for who bravely fought this disease and lost and for those just beginning their journey with Alzheimer’s. I walk for the dedicated medical team from Bloom Healthcare that keeps my family grounded and for the researchers and doctors striving every day for a cure."
Finally, Baker expressed his deep gratitude for the Alzheimer's Association: "In June, I participated in my 3rd Ride to End Alzheimer’s and was honored to attend a special event the night before the ride. During this gathering, my sister and I had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Christopher Weber, Director of Global Science Initiatives for the Alzheimer’s Association. He sat beside us, introduced himself, and asked about our WHY. After sharing our story, he offered words that neither of us will ever forget: He said, 'I’m sorry.' Taken aback, we were puzzled. Why would someone so deeply entrenched in the fight for progress apologize to us? 'I’m sorry for not getting the research done in time to help your mom.' It was a profound reminder of the passion and dedication of those working to find a cure."
By participating in initiatives like the Walk to End Alzheimer's, Columbine Health reaffirms its dedication to supporting individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's and related dementias. Together, they strive not only to raise funds but also to raise awareness and hope for a future without Alzheimer's.
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