Fall Festival helps DuPage convalescent center do its work
Each weekend thousands of people take to the streets of our communities, walking and running to raise money for charities. Every one of them has found a cause to believe in, a bit of hope through helping. And every one of them has a reason for being there.
Today, Kathe Moses of Warrenville discusses her experience in having her mother, Catherine "Kay" Garramone, living at the DuPage Convalescent Center in Wheaton and why she'll be active in the facility's Fall Festival 5K run and family walk on Sept. 19.
My mother, Catherine "Kay" Garramone, has been at the DuPage Convalescent Center in Wheaton for almost two years. From the moment my mother was admitted, I felt a sense of "home," of "love," of "caring." The support from everyone has not wavered and, in many ways, has gotten stronger. If you believe in angels, they work at the convalescent center.
These caring individuals are relentlessly in motion to ensure the best quality of life for their many residents, to ensure they have the opportunity to express themselves and enjoy everyday activities - gardening, music, ceramics, field trips, Red Hat Society - anything they would like to do. The sky's the limit!
But at times, the limit is the finances to make these things happen. Fundraising is essential. I've become very involved in fundraising. Being on the DuPage Convalescent Center Foundation board has opened up a new world to me. My friends and family have marveled at my commitment to raising money, but being part of a "family" that sees the needs of others is fulfilling and drives me forward. I'm energized by all the enthusiasm!
One of our biggest fundraisers is coming up on Sept. 19. The Fall Festival 5K run and family walk brings residents, families, local people, everyone, together for a day of fun. I will be working on the 5K (wheelchairs are welcome), and will take my mother to all the day's events - food vendors, garage sale, car show, bake sale, vendor exhibits, live band. There is something for everyone.
And, the best part: 100 percent of money raised that day goes directly for the residents. That makes it so worthwhile! The residents have a "wish list" and the hope is to fulfill one or more of their wishes through the foundation and the Resident Recreation Fund, which jointly sponsor the day's activities. Last year was a huge success and we're hoping this year will be, too.
I can't say enough wonderful things about the DuPage Convalescent Center, but I can say they appreciate two things: Volunteers who come to the center to share their special talents or just visit with a resident; and any monetary donations. Both are essential for the happiness of the residents, my mother included.
My wish is that everyone could see the smile on my mother's face. She is peaceful and loved. I sleep well at night knowing people care so much about her - those special angels.
<p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>If you go</b></p> <p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>What:</b> Fall Festival 5K run and family walk</p> <p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>Why:</b> To raise money for "extras" for residents at the DuPage Convalescent Center</p> <p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>When:</b> Registration at 7 a.m. Sept. 19; wheelchairs start at 8:25 a.m., runners and walkers follow at 8:30 a.m.</p> <p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>Where:</b> DuPage Convalescent Center, 400 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton</p> <p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>Cost:</b> $22 before Sept. 14, $25 after; free for wheelchair participants and walkers 12 and younger</p> <p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>Register:</b> <a href="http://dpccfoundation.org or signmeup.com/65202" target="new">dpccfoundation.org or signmeup.com/65202</a></p> <p class="factboxtextbold12col"><b>Info:</b> (630) 784-4495 or <a href="http://fallfestival5K@dupageco.org" target="new">fallfestival5K@dupageco.org</a> </p>