PHILIPSBURG:--- The White & Yellow Cross Care Foundation (WYCCF) proudly hosted the first edition of its Dementia Awareness Walkathon this past Saturday, September 6th. At exactly 6:00 AM, fifty-five enthusiastic participants set off from the St. Martin’s Home, following a route along L.B. Scot Road, Bush Road, Zagersgut Road, and Coralita Road, before returning to the WYCCF. The early-morning walk brought together community members, volunteers, and supporters for a meaningful start to the day, combining fitness, solidarity, and advocacy.
This year’s theme, “Ask About Dementia… Ask About Alzheimer’s,” encouraged participants to break the silence surrounding these conditions, sparking conversations, asking questions, and sharing personal experiences.
“Every step taken and every question asked helps to create a more compassionate and informed community,” said Minerva Maccow, one of WYCCF’s three students enrolled in the Dementia Case Managers training. “Our goal is to ensure that no one faces dementia alone, and we hope this event serves as a reminder that we are moving forward together.”
The event was made possible thanks to the generosity of community partners and sponsors, including Carl and Sons Unique Bakery, Cost U Less, Mrs. Lorraine Brookes, and Mrs. Irene Kemper, as well as the many volunteers who contributed their time and energy to making the event a success.
The Walkathon is part of WYCCF’s Alzheimer’s Awareness Month initiatives, spearheaded by its future Dementia Case Managers: Mrs. Minerva Maccow, Mrs. Michelline Hunte, and Mrs. Vaitaire Overman. In addition to the walk, the team has organized a series of community outreach activities, including the launch of the Alzheimer’s Support Group Cooking Club later this month. This new bi-monthly initiative invites informal caregivers and their loved ones to enjoy a social evening of cooking together, alternating with the regular Alzheimer’s Support Group sessions that offer the opportunity to ask questions, share experiences, vent, and exchange tips and best practices.
“We believe that quality care begins long before a diagnosis,” added Maccow. “Raising awareness, supporting prevention, and equipping informal caregivers are all essential parts of our mission to improve quality of life for those affected by dementia.”
The White & Yellow Cross Care Foundation remains committed to providing trusted, quality care and to fostering a more dementia-aware community through education, support, and compassion.
