Zia Runs with Purpose: Honoring a Polio Survivor at the Prasher Dasher

Every year, the Rotary Club of Brush, Colorado, hosts a special event that brings together runners, walkers, families, and four-legged friends for a cause that reaches far beyond the finish line.

The Prasher Dasher is more than a community race. It is a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Ron Prasher, a beloved educator, longtime Rotarian, and dedicated community leader who was also a polio survivor. Throughout his life, Ron exemplified Rotary's ideal of Service Above Self, serving as a two-time president of the Rotary Club of Brush, an Assistant District Governor, and a passionate advocate for young leaders through Rotary's Interact program. His legacy continues to inspire Rotarians across District 5450 and beyond.

This year, among the participants was a very special member of our Rotary PolioPlus Society Kennel Klub family—Zia, the District 5450 Polio Kennel Pup.

Wearing her bright red End Polio Now bandana, Zia proudly joined the event, serving as a reminder that our pets are helping spread awareness of Rotary's greatest humanitarian mission: eradicating polio forever.

The Prasher Dasher beautifully connects Rotary's past with its future. It honors someone who experienced firsthand the devastating effects of polio while celebrating the incredible progress Rotary and its partners have made toward ending the disease worldwide. Today, because of decades of dedication, the world stands closer than ever to eliminating polio for good—a goal made possible by the commitment of Rotarians, supporters, and even our beloved pets.

For Zia, the day wasn't about crossing the finish line first. It was about standing alongside Rotarians, families, and community members who continue Ron Prasher's legacy of service and compassion. Every step taken during the event represented hope that future generations will never know the fear of polio.

At the Rotary PolioPlus Society Kennel Klub, we believe our pets can inspire conversations, bring smiles, and remind people why this mission matters. Zia did exactly that in Brush, Colorado.

To everyone who participated in the Prasher Dasher—thank you for honoring Ron Prasher's memory and helping keep the dream of a polio-free world alive.

Way to go, Zia! We're proud to have you representing the Kennel Klub and District 5450 as you continue helping spread the message that together, we really can make polio history. 🐾❤️