
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month with two heartfelt events to support survivors and the community.

With the rising popularity of matcha in Ocala, it’s important to know where locals can get good quality matcha to beat the sea grass rumors.

Kerry Eck is walking for his father, who lives with Alzheimer’s, joining countless others in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s Ocala on Sept. 27 at Tuscawilla Park. The event honors those impacted through the Promise Garden ceremony, uniting the community in hope for a cure.

Outdoor Valor, a faith-based nonprofit, has served over 2,000 veterans with zero reported suicides. At a time when 44 veterans are lost daily to suicide, the organization proves that faith, community, and purpose can truly save lives.

HCA Healthcare Foundation’s Healthier Tomorrow Fund presented the United Way of Marion County with a check for $25,000 at the HCA Florida West Marion Hospital on Aug. 26, 2025. Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today

The Alzheimer’s Association is bringing the community together for Catch the Purple Wave, a pep rally set for Wednesday, August 27 at 5:30 p.m. in Ocala. The event offers a first look at this year’s walk, opportunities to get involved, and a chance to connect with others dedicated to ending Alzheimer’s. Attendees are encouraged to wear purple and show their support in the fight against this devastating disease.

Picking up the Pieces will host its annual Overdose Awareness Event on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Compassion United Methodist Church in Ocala. The day begins with a Memorial Ride in Belleview before the community gathers for speakers, resource tables, children’s activities, and a united moment of remembrance. Coinciding with International Overdose Awareness Day, the event honors lives lost to addiction while offering hope, support, and awareness for prevention and recovery.

Get ready to cheer for a cause! The “Purple Wave” Pep Rally rolls into Ocala on Aug. 27, rallying excitement and support for the upcoming Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Join the community for an afternoon of energy, inspiration, and unity as we take steps toward a world without Alzheimer’s.

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital has been named a Center of Excellence by GO2 for Lung Cancer, highlighting its leadership in early lung cancer detection, biomarker testing, and personalized treatment. This designation reinforces the hospital’s commitment to delivering top-tier, life-saving care to patients in Ocala and surrounding communities.

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County is offering free back-to-school immunizations for children at its Ocala clinic and mobile units throughout the county.