If you go to nationaldaycalendar.com you will see that there are more than 1,500 days recognizing some part of your life. There are probably as many months that are recognized for various organizations as well, but I wanted to talk about three very important awareness months that affect so many of our residents, visitors and others.

These were all recognized in September; however, they should be thought about every day of the year. 

National Assisted Living Week, Sept. 11-17: The town celebrated this at Benton House this year with a proclamation recognizing this week and honoring not only our older population, but the workers who give so much of their time to taking care of our prized residents.

While I was there, they were celebrating “cruise week” and the entire space was filled with colorful photos and artwork of the areas they were virtually visiting. The theme for this week was “Joyful Moments,” which encourages assisted living communities around the country to host a variety of events that honor the individuals who reside, work, and volunteer in these communities. Benton House is one of many local assisted living facilities and I urge all of you to take a minute and learn how you can be part of volunteering or visiting one of these facilities.

National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: The town read a proclamation to support this cause, and you will see teal ribbons around all town facilities. The South Carolina Ovarian Cancer Foundation: Lowcountry Chapter has more info on this, and the town continues to support their efforts in beating the cancer. Reach out to this chapter and see where you can participate in their efforts.

National Suicide Awareness Month. I can’t imagine that anyone reading this can’t name someone close to them with some type of mental issue. We all must be aware of the symptoms and find a place where your loved one (or yourself) can get help.

The local NAMI is very strong in finding support systems for our residents, and there is a NAMI walk on Oct. 8 at Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island. Visit NamiWalks.Org to find out more.

In addition, the Hilton Head/Bluffton Out of the Darkness walk to raise awareness and prevent suicide will be held at 1 p.m. Nov 6 at Oyster Factory Park. Visit afsp.org and search for details.

Lisa Sulka is the mayor of the Town of Bluffton. lsulka@townofbluffton.com