October marks National Domestic Violence Prevention Month. The Family Crisis Center in Great Bend is planning an event for Oct. 7 and want to paint the town purple to raise awareness of this life- and family-shattering problem that often exists in the shadows.
According to the Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence, one in four women and one in seven men have been a victim of severe physical violence by an intimate partner. In 2007, 10.1 percent of adult females in Kansas reported domestic violence victimization. When extrapolated from the Kansas census this would result in 106,419 female victims during the year. 
Around 48 percent of both men and women have experienced psychological aggression by an intimate partner.
“This is the day that communities and regions across the 50 states will culminate in a powerful statement celebrating the strength of battered women and their children,” said Laura Patzner, the center’s executive director.  “It’s day to remember those who have suffered and died from domestic violence, and celebrate the work being done to end violence.”
Meanwhile, Missy Pflughoeft is organizing the local Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s set for Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Barton County Courthouse Square. While an epidemic of a different sort, this plague also ravages individuals and their loved ones.
She said one in three seniors dies from some for of dementia, someone develops Alzheimer’s every 68 seconds and younger people are being diagnosed in their 50s and 60s.
“I feel this event is important to bring awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research for a cure,” Pflughoeft said. “Everyone will be touched by this disease and everyone will lose a loved one from this disease because at this current time there is no cure or prevention.”
It’s easy to forget about these issues and their local impact, especially with inane antics of the likes of Senator Ted Cruz in his battle against the health care reform law grabbing headlines.
But, these are serious problems that affect people we know and love.
If you get a chance to support either cause, please do so.
Dale Hogg