LONG NECK — When Litenia “Tina” Knight of Rehoboth Beach — recently announced as Easterseals’ Walk With Me Delmarva ambassador — had a heart attack, it rocked the whole family. Ms. Knight was a very outgoing and social person, who was active in the community. After she spent 13 minutes without oxygen, she woke up, and it was discovered she had a brain injury and low vision.

Ms. Knight wanted to remain a part of the community, and that is when she found Easterseals Adult Day Services.

“When I walked into Easterseals, I saw a lot of people, and it felt like family,” she said. “You know I love Easterseals because I have been there five years.”

Ms. Knight will be serving as this year’s ambassador for Easterseals’ 10th annual Walk With Me & Fun Run Delmarva. The event is scheduled for 4 p.m. Oct. 2 at Baywood Greens, 32267 Clubhouse Way, Long Neck.

While she is enjoying painting, dancing, companionship, exercising and other arts and crafts projects five days a week in the day program, her daughter, Ashley Knight, is able to take online college classes, run errands, go to doctor’s appointments and care for her son.

Along with the day program, Ashley also takes advantage of Easterseals Personal Attendant Services, so she can focus on caring for her mom and her son, and Respite Services, so she can care for herself, as well.

“I’m glad I am able to take care of my family,” Ashley said. “Having Easterseals services means a lot for my mental health. It helps to have time to myself. As a caregiver, you can get overwhelmed and overworked. It is important to have time to restore myself and unwind. After all, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

“We are so excited to be the ambassador family for this year’s event,” she continued. “My mom feels at home at Easterseals, and I know she is safe. We support each other. Easterseals is like family.”

Funds raised through the walk will allow Easterseals to provide critically needed services to families living with disabilities in our local community.

Registration is available here. For information, contact Missy Baker at mbaker@esdel.org.