VERO BEACH — Supporters of the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association of Indian River County turned out for a special reception to dedicate its Pamela Rosemary Steggles Activity Center. The Association recently moved into its new location at 2300 5th Avenue (formerly the Doctor’s Clinic building) thanks to the contributions of numerous donors, including the late John Steggles and the John’s Island Foundation. The Activity Center was dedicated as a loving tribute to Steggles’ first wife Pamela who passed away in 1998 following a long struggle with Alzheimer’s. Through those difficult years, John became aware of the emotional, physical and financial drain experienced by caregivers and other family members who cope with the daily challenges caused by the disease and that they frequently suffer declines in their own health.
While his financial situation afforded Steggles with the ability to provide Pamela with the very best private care, he realized that many in the community were not as fortunate and envisioned a day care facility that would offer patients an active and beneficial setting while giving caregivers a much needed respite.
A major donor to Alzheimer’s, John encouraged others to contribute, including those in the John’s Island and Oak Harbor communities where he resided. His efforts and support eventually helped enable the Alzheimer & Parkinson Association to move into their larger, more functional facility.
After John passed away this past August, his wife Joyce McKay Steggles took up the standard and was equally committed following through on Pamela’s memorial. At the reception, Board President George R. Bryan presented the dedication plaque to Mrs. Steggles and to John and Pamela’s daughter, Angela Nevius.
The programs and services in “Pamela’s Place” will include social group respite, support groups, caregiver training, facilitator training, emotional seminars, workshops and speakers series, monthly membership meetings, “art of moving” exercise classes, boxing classes, dance, voice/singing program and member only events.
The new Alzheimer & Parkinson facility has naming opportunities available for the new Library and the Volunteer Area. {igallery 182}
