Knoxville Blooms for Alzheimer’s Awareness: The 13th Annual Pansy Project
Knoxville, Tennessee, has taken a beautiful step forward in honoring those affected by Alzheimer’s disease as the 13th Annual Pansy Project kicked off on October 8. This heartfelt initiative aims to raise funds for the Pat Summitt Foundation while spreading messages of hope and support throughout the community.
A Colorful Tribute
As we transition into the fall season, residents have the opportunity to buy lovely orange and purple pansies from Stanley’s Greenhouse. These vibrant flowers are not just a decorative touch; they symbolize the ongoing battle against Alzheimer’s. The purple pansies represent the fight against this challenging disease, while the orange pansies offer a powerful reminder of the legendary basketball coach, Pat Summitt, and her own struggles with Alzheimer’s.
Why This Matters
In the spirit of togetherness, Abby Stanley, the retail manager at Stanley’s Greenhouse, shared that this project goes beyond just flowers. It’s a legacy left by her grandmother, who founded their partnership with the Pat Summitt Foundation before passing away in 2022. “This cause was so important to her and us because of family members who suffered from the disease and because of our longtime love and support of Pat Summitt and the Lady Vol basketball program,” Abby remarked.
Abby’s own grandfather was a devoted fan of the Lady Vols and faced his own battle with Alzheimer’s. Starting the Pansy Project was a way for her family to give back to the community while paying homage to someone they admired greatly. “These beautiful purple and orange pansies just seemed like the right thing,” she added.
A Tradition of Hope
The Pansy Project is not just about beautiful blooms; it represents a long-standing tradition that brings Knoxville together in support of those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. As we approach November, which marks National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, community members are encouraged to plant these flowers as a visible sign of solidarity.
“It’s a beautiful way to remember our beloved coach and honor those currently battling Alzheimer’s disease and dementia,” stated Joan Cronan, chairman of the Pat Summit Foundation Advisory Board. She emphasized the importance of supporting caregivers and advancing research, echoing Summitt’s desire for a foundation that would be a beacon of hope for those impacted by the disease.
Supporting the Cause
All proceeds from the pansy sales at Stanley’s Greenhouse, located at 3029 Davenport Road in South Knoxville, go directly to the Pat Summitt Foundation. This partnership signifies a community effort to tackle Alzheimer’s head-on while keeping the spirit of a remarkable coach alive.
Residents are invited to plant these symbolic flowers throughout Knoxville, creating a colorful tapestry of support that reminds all those affected by Alzheimer’s that they are not alone and that their community deeply cares. Each purchase not only beautifies the city but also fosters awareness and encourages ongoing research into the disease.
Join the Movement!
As fall unfolds and the leaves begin to change, consider joining the Pansy Project this season. By choosing to plant orange and purple pansies, you’ll be making a difference in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and celebrating the legacy of Pat Summitt. Every bloom is a step toward progress, hope, and community support.
So why wait? Grab your pansies, roll up your sleeves, and let’s honor those we love while beautifying Knoxville one flower at a time!
