Barberton — Aloma Cole has been selected to be the 2011 Vancouver Arthritis Walk Adult Grand Marshal for the May 15 event, which to helps raise money for the organization.
For more than 18 years, Cole walked regularly and participated in the Portland to Coast Relay until her battle with osteoarthritis of the knee got the better of her.
In June 2009, at 67, she underwent a total knee replacement on her right knee. Her surgery was so successful that she decided to have her left knee replaced six months later. Cole was determined to get back on her feet and active again.
In August 2010, eight months after having her second knee replacement Aloma was back on her relay team. The retired nurse walked two five-mile legs and was able to maintain a 20 minute mile as she completed her 10th Portland to Coast Relay.
