From Drops to Legacy: Dwight Perry and Rotary’s End Polio Now Journey
How one Rotarian’s experience brings the global fight against polio closer to home
When Dwight Perry spoke to the Castro Valley Rotary Club on October 28, 2025, he didn’t just give a presentation—he shared a deeply human story of service, courage, and global connection.
Dwight recounted his emotional trip to Africa, where he joined local health teams administering polio vaccine drops to children. He described the moment when a mother’s anxious face softened into relief as her child received protection against a disease that once paralyzed millions. It was, he said, “the moment service became personal.”
Dwight also reminded us that Rotary’s landmark PolioPlus campaign, launched in 1985, built far more than a polio vaccination network. The same infrastructure later supported the global COVID vaccine rollout. “PolioPlusPlus,” Dwight called it, showing how the ripple effects of Rotary’s vision continue to save lives.
From Drops to Legacy: Dwight Perry and Rotary’s End Polio Now Journey
How one Rotarian’s experience brings the global fight against polio closer to home
When Dwight Perry spoke to the Castro Valley Rotary Club on October 28, 2025, he didn’t just give a presentation—he shared a deeply human story of service, courage, and global connection.
Dwight recounted his emotional trip to Africa, where he joined local health teams administering polio vaccine drops to children. He described the moment when a mother’s anxious face softened into relief as her child received protection against a disease that once paralyzed millions. It was, he said, “the moment service became personal.”
Dwight also reminded us that Rotary’s landmark PolioPlus campaign, launched in 1985, built far more than a polio vaccination network. The same infrastructure later supported the global COVID vaccine rollout. “PolioPlusPlus,” Dwight called it, showing how the ripple effects of Rotary’s vision continue to save lives.
Globally, Rotary and its partners have raised more than US $2 billion for polio eradication, helping to protect billions of children from paralysis. The wild poliovirus now remains endemic in only two countries—a remarkable testament to Rotary’s decades of persistence.
The presentation also touched the heart of our members. Cliff Sherwood shared a childhood memory: when everyone in his home was exposed to polio. His sister suffered paralysis, and the family endured quarantine—a reminder of how devastating the disease once was.
Ceta Dochterman added her own story, recalling her travels abroad to help deliver vaccine drops and support local health teams—one of many Rotarians who personally joined the frontline effort.
Dwight closed by reflecting on the origins of PolioPlus and the Rotary International president who led the charge that mobilized clubs worldwide. His leadership launched a movement that continues to define Rotary’s impact today.
As the room applauded, it was clear that this wasn’t just a history lesson—it was a call to continue a promise. The End Polio Now campaign is nearing its final file, and the Castro Valley Rotary Club remains committed to carrying it across the finish line.