November 2013 Senior Living Magazine by INSPIRED 55+ Lifestyle Magazine

SPECIAL PLANNED GIVING EDITION NOVEMBER 2013 TM

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Senior Donors Creating a legacy for future generations Victoria Human Exchange Society OďŹ&#x20AC;ering a hand up

. Plus..Gordon Denford Building Community And... TRAVEL

Norm Snihur

Volunteering his expertise to help rescue wildlife

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NOVEMBER 2013

I have 130 grandparents.

The best part of my day? Walking through those doors in the morning.

Independent and assisted living choices for today’s senior.

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BCSC Senior Living Magazine

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Let the good life begin. ��

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FEATURES

30 Spitﬁre Pilots Reunite

32 Something to Think About

6 Creating a Legacy for Future Generations

Now is the time to make your wishes known regarding future health care treatment.

Seniors make provisions for the future knowing it makes a difference and no gift is too small.

8 Helicopter Pilot Aids in Wildlife Rescue Norm Snihur combines his love of ﬂying with his love of wildlife rehabilitation by volunteering.

12 Volunteering Friendship Lifelong friends – generations apart.

14 The Kully Sekhon Memorial Fund

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16 Senior Volunteers

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Family and friends create a legacy that ensures one woman’s passionate advocacy lives on.

Professor Emeritus Valerius Geist continues to share his expertise in retirement.

38 Classiﬁeds 40 Travel

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COLUMNS 4 The Family Caregiver by Barbara Small

The motivation behind devoting one’s time and resources is as varied as the people who do it.

37 Fit for the Adventure

20 A Hand Up!

39 Ask Goldie

by Eve Lees

Victoria Human Exchange Society provides affordable, digniﬁed housing to low-income individuals.

22 Small Acts of Kindness

Sometimes the simplest gestures can make the greatest impact on those in need.

by Goldie Carlow

43 Courageous & Outrageous by Pat Nichol

44 Reﬂections: Then & Now by Gipp Forster

26 Building a Dream

Proﬁling Berwick Retirement Communities’ co-founder Gordon Denford.

Cover Photo: Volunteer wildlife rescue helicopter pilot Norm Snihur with a rescued owl at the Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society. Story page 8. Photo: Courtesy of O.W.L.

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Senior Living is published by Stratis Publishing. Publishers Barbara Risto Barry Risto Editor Bobbie Jo Reid editor@seniorlivingmag.com Ofﬁce Manager Shayna Horne 250-479-4705 ofﬁce@seniorlivingmag.com Ad Sales Staff Colevin Crause 250-479-4705 ext 102 Barry Risto 250-479-4705 ext 101 Kathie Wagner 250-479-4705 ext 103 For advertising information, call 250-479-4705 sales@seniorlivingmag.com

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34 The Wildlife Advocate

DEPARTMENTS

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Sixty-eight years after his mission, Jim O’Toole is recognized for his dedication.

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Head Ofﬁce Contact Information: Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1 Phone 250-479-4705 Fax 250-479-4808 Toll-free 1-877-479-4705 E-mail ofﬁce@seniorlivingmag.com Website www.seniorlivingmag.com Subscriptions: $32 (includes GST, postage and handling) for 12 issues. Canadian residents only. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Senior Living is an independent publication and its articles imply no endorsement of any products or services. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. Unsolicited articles are welcome and should be e-mailed to editor@seniorlivingmag. com Senior Living is distributed free throughout British Columbia. Stratis Publishing Ltd. publishes Senior Living (12 issues per year). ISSN 17103584 (Print) ISSN 1911-6403 (Online)

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THE FAMILY CAREGIVER

Having Difﬁcult Conversations

ne challenge of caregiving is having difficult conversations with your family member or friend about what type of care they want, what happens if they can no longer safely live in their own home, when it may be time for them to give up driving or if they have prepared their will, Power of Attorney and Representation Agreement. These conversations can stir up emotions in everyone involved as they compel us to discuss directly changes in health and independence. Ideally, the best time to have these conversations is before a crisis or change in health or cognitive ability occurs. Although it may feel difficult to approach such a discussion, chances are these concerns are on everyone’s mind. Someone needs to take the plunge and initiate the talk. These are sensitive topics and can trigger strong emotions around mortality, loss of independence, fear of the unknown, feelings of helplessness and grief. Your family member could respond with defensiveness or denial, which may reflect their fear or embarrassment. It is important to treat your family members like adults and remember this is their life being discussed. Approach it like a conversation, rather than as a directive. Stay open to what they have to say instead of telling them what they need to do. Once you introduce the topic and share your concerns, allow them an opportunity to speak. Listening is essential here. Ask questions to see if their concerns are the same as yours, and if they have other concerns as well. How would they like to see these resolved? They may need some time to think about the issue. So, once you broach the subject, set up a time to come back to it later, after they have processed it. An initial refusal to listen or talk fueled

by defensiveness or fear is normal. Once your family member has had time to consider your concerns, those initial feelings may diminish. BY BARBARA SMALL Reaching final decisions could take several conversations. Discuss one issue at a time; some people start with the most urgent. If you anticipate significant resistance, start with the easiest or least impactful concern first so it is less threatening. Put yourself in their shoes. How would you like to be approached on these topics and how would you feel if your life was changing in similar ways? What meaning could be behind their reaction? Everyone has a story they tell themselves about what is happening and how it will impact them. Consider how your own personal point of view and what you want to see happen influences how you approach the conversation and perhaps pushes your own agenda. Others can usually pick up when we have a personal agenda and this is often met with resistance. For other tips on having difficult conversation, visit www. havingtheconversation.com/How-to-best-get-started.html or www.caregiverstress.com/family-communication/40-70/communication-tips or www.thehartford.com/mature-market-excelSL lence/family-conversations-with-older-drivers Next month: Holiday Giving Barbara Small is the Program Development Coordinator for Family Caregivers’ Network Society located in Victoria, BC. www.familycaregiversnetwork.org

The Family Caregiver column is brought to you by the generous sponsorship of Saint Elizabeth

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Plant your legacy today. Be forever. Find out how at vancouverfoundation.ca/belikealice or call Kristin at 604.629.5186

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NOVEMBER 2013

Planned Giving

Creating a Legacy for Future Generations

BY STARR MUNRO

magine a world where you didn’t have to worry or wonder about the health and safety of future generations. Imagine a world where everyone had access to food, shelter, water, a clean environment, medical care and education. When you dream of the future, what do you imagine? Ninety-three-year-old cancer survivor Peter Gage imagines a world free of cancer. In fact, he believes a world without cancer is not just a fantasy, it’s a reality. One he is committed to helping make happen. “I am convinced that although I will not live to see it, there will come a day when we have a world without cancer,” says Peter. In hopes of creating a cancer-free world, Peter has graciously decided to support the BC Cancer Foundation by naming the organization as a beneficiary in his will. (The BC Cancer Foundation is the fundraising partner of the BC Cancer Agency and the largest charitable funder of cancer research in BC.) Peter’s life has been touched by cancer multiple times. In addition to having had major surgery for colon cancer four years ago himself, his youngest son recently died at age 59 from leukemia, and he has other friends battling this terrible disease.

Despite his loss, Peter has a unique zest for life and ability to see the positive side of every challenge he faces. “I enjoy giving. It makes sense for me to give back to the BC Cancer Foundation,” he says. “I am lucky I survived.” Peter is a man that has endured many tragedies. He believes his desire to give stems from serving six years in the Royal Navy, all during wartime and mostly in enemy waters. He is thankful he survived the war and feels compelled to never complain about life’s circumstances. “It’s not a bad idea to try to live each day as if it is your last,” says Peter. “I am 93. I am just approaching getting elderly! I have given up my car, which I miss, but on the other hand I have probably saved the lives of pedestrians by doing so. I cannot walk without a walker, or holding onto the arm of a pretty girl, but I still get out daily.” Peter took up painting at age 90. Beyond being a legacy donor, he recently donated blank notecards with his paintings inscribed for use at the Vancouver Island Branch of the BC Cancer Agency. “As a cancer patient, I was treated so well,” he says. “I’m so impressed by the professionalism of everyone, from the researchers to technicians that I’ve met at the

Your legacy: a better future for everyone touched by cancer. Discovery needs willing partners. When you remember the BC Cancer Foundation in your will, you’ll be supporting world-renowned research in BC that is shaping the future of cancer care. Please be sure to use the full legal name of our organization: BC Cancer Foundation

Registration Number: 11881 8434 RR0001 Toll free 1.888.906.2873 www.bccancerfoundation.com 68

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Photo: Peace Arch Hospital Foundation

For more information about including a financial gift (or legacy donation) to a charitable organization through your will, speak to a legal advisor experienced in will preparation.

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In Life, it’s your family that’s your true legacy. Once you have remembered your family in your Will, why not consider making a gift to Peace Arch Hospital and Community Health Foundation? Let your legacy provide for the vital medical services your family and community needs to live full, happy and healthy lives. To discover more about the many unique lifetime and long-term benefits of leaving a legacy gift to Peace Arch Hospital and Community Health Foundation, visit www.pahfoundation.ca or call 604-535-4520.

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BC Cancer Agency. I like knowing the money I donate will go to help research in our province.” Like Peter, Ellen and Howard Kennett have also made charitable provisions in their wills, in hopes that future generations will have access to better healthcare. The couple’s generous legacy donation has been gifted to Peace Arch Hospital, located in their community. “Howard and I have lived in White Rock for 60 years, and we, and our families, have received exceptional care at Peace Arch Hospital,” says Ellen. “We are not particularly well-todo, but we are pleased to remember Peace Arch Hospital in our wills. We felt we should become legacy donors to help provide care for future generations… It is so important to ensure our community has a hospital with the best medical equipment.” Ellen’s history of service to the Hospital is long and distinguished. “When I moved to White Rock in May 1954, our hospital was not yet open,” she says. “Once it was, there was a need to purchase equipment. When my children were a little older, I became a member of the Hilltop Group of Auxiliary. My donation in those early years was my time and a lot of baking.” Ellen and Howard, who married after both The Kennetts make provisions in their will for Peace Arch Hospital. being widowed, have 10 children between them. Despite a very busy family life, Ellen has always made time to contribute and help enhance the services at Peace Arch Hospital. She served for four years as president of the auxiliary, 12 years on the Hospital Board of Trustees, including two years as Chair, and a two-year term as the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation’s first Board Chair. Despite her years of service to the hospital, Ellen says her work is still not finished. She has been asked to serve on the Foundation’s Partners in Caring Committee as a liaison; she can be found out in the community speaking about the early history and importance of health care in the area. “Volunteering is a great way to meet people and to feel involved in the community – a wonderful way of feeling belonging,” says Ellen. “This community is a wonderful place to live because of the contribution of time and money by so many generous people… It is important for people to remember that no SL gift is too small.”

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NOVEMBER 2013

Planned Giving

Helicopter Pilot Aids in Wildlife Rescue

C Wildlife Rescue Helicopter Pilot Norm Snihur donates countless hours of helicopter transport by flying wildlife to rescue and rehabilitation centres all over BC’s coastal islands and Lower Mainland. Since 1994, over 1,500 flight hours of wildlife rescue and support flights have been logged by Norm in support of 10 wildlife rehabilitation centres. “Wildlife rehabilitation centres perform valuable, ecologically important work,” says Norm. “I appreciate bringing their activity to the public’s attention and creating awareness of the value of and need for volunteer service in general.” Norm’s attraction to aviation emerged when he was only about eight years old. “While living on an acreage with my family, an airplane landed in a large field behind our property,” he recalls. “The pilot was giving rides to anybody who showed up. I had my first airplane ride then lasting about 10 minutes. By

Norm Snihur prepares for a rescue mission.

the time I landed, I decided I wanted to be a pilot. It was such a fascinating experience!” Years of study and training followed and included joining the Air Cadets, get-

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ting his pilot’s license and ongoing aviation instruction. Norm worked for Air Canada for 32 years, retiring in 1999, but then continued flying as a contract pilot on the BC coast and in Alberta.

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North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre

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Photo: Bev Yaworski

BY BEV YAWORSKI

His wildlife volunteer service began in 1992 at the Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society (O.W.L.) – a Delta wildlife centre specializing in raptors. In April 1994, a report was received at O.W.L. of an eagle in distress on an island (about 18km from O.W.L.) in the Fraser River near Ladner. While on site, Norm overheard talk of plans to carry out a rescue attempt, and if it would be possible to arrange use of a watercraft. “Nearby island rescues such as that one had typically taken three to five hours to accomplish,” says Norm, “and many more hours when greater distances were involved.” Norm offered his own helicopter for the rescue. “I was accompanied by a volunteer experienced in wildlife rescue work. The eagle was captured about 10

land Wildlife Recovery Association. “Wildlife centres specialize in one or two species,” says Norm. “This results in the need for transfers between centres. Moving an eagle needing care from Tofino on Vancouver Island to Delta would take a Tofino volunteer about 20 hours to complete the round trip over two days. The eagle would endure the stress of up to 10 hours of travel. By helicopter that travel time for wildlife is about 1.5 hours.” Over 18 years, more than 800 wildlife of various species have been transported, including eagles, owls, hawks and raccoons. Seal pups make up the greatest proportion. “The wildlife species that benefits most from helicopter rescue is the harbour seal,” says Norm. “The mother keeps a newborn on a beach for a couple of weeks. Contact with watercraft and illness leaves many pups orphaned and in distress each year. Reports of a seal pup unattended by its mother reach

Please remember Zajac Ranch for Children with a bequest in your will.

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Thank you for remembering our children. ��

Photo: Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Society

A legacy that started with a motorbike. Trevor Deeley was a visionary. He introduced the ﬁrst small motorbikes to 1960’s Canadian youth and then built success after success. It didn’t stop there. Trevor and his wife Joyce were generosity personiﬁed, helping many causes and people. They saw our hospital as the heart of the community. Their estate plans included a gift to ensure that our “heart” continues to beat strongly.

Norm with one of his rescuees.

minutes after landing. The elapsed time from wildlife centre takeoff, capture and landing the eagle took about 30 minutes, which included two five-minute flights. The advantage in employing a helicopter in the management of wildlife was recognized immediately – thereby leading to ongoing requests for flights.” Eventually, other locations learned about availability of a helicopter, and began to ask for assistance. Norm and his helicopter now support 10 wildlife centres on the BC coast including the Vancouver Aquarium and the North Is-

For more information about bequests, please call Karen Morgan

250-652-7531

Planned giving

It’s our hospital.

When you want to do more for an organization you believe in and trust.

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NOVEMBER 2013

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This year alone, nearly 29,000 abused, homeless, injured and neglected animals across the province will need your help. You can always be there for them by making a donation or including a gift in your Will. Give them the second chance at life that they deserve. Visit us today at spca.bc.ca/support or contact: Yolanda Benoit ybenoit@spca.bc.ca 1.800.665.1868

wildlife centres such as the Vancouver Aquarium. They alert me. I fly to the location, rescue the pup, and transport it to one of the two closest Marine Mammal Rescue Centres.” “Flight times involved for many of the local island seal rescues only require 15-20 minutes compared to two to six hours by boat. In many cases, there is no other way of rescuing and transporting these creatures to a care centre, except by boat or air.” Many species are territorial, so recovered wildlife are returned to the area where they were discovered. “One gets a good feeling participating in a rescue,” says Norm, “but the best part is always the release of recovered wildlife.” Norm also volunteers 10 hours a week for site maintenance at O.W.L. This non-profit society, located in Ladner, houses about 200 injured birds of prey including about 20 different bird species such as owls, hawks, falcons and eagles. O.W.L. Director Bev Day emphasizes: “We sincerely value our many volunteers who are dedicated to public education and the rehabilitation and release of injured and orphaned birds. Every person who volunteers gives a part of their heart to the wildlife.” O.W.L. facilities suffered serious damage from winter winds and flooding, thereby requiring extra need for donations. To volunteer or donate, contact the O.W.L. website SL www.owlcanada.org or call 604-946-3171.

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1 Gift that keeps

This Holiday Season, make a monetary donation to giving back to the WIN to support women in transforming their lives. Find out how: womeninneed.ca/donate 250-480-4006 x203 The

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Community

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�� Neighbours helping neighbours

Give the Gift of the Future Your conservation legacy gift helps ensure a ��

www.bcwf.bc.ca

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Planned Giving

Volunteering Friendship BY STARR MUNRO

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Photo: The War Amps

aking a significant difference in someone else’s to do this on my own, now I am going to try to do it with a life can sometimes be as simple as sharing your three year old?” says Bert. “But Jenna was amazing. Everyknowledge and making yourself available. Take thing went well. Even when Jenna was little, I could tell that she was a go-getter.” Bert Steinhoff, for example. One of Jenna’s favourite memories with Bert is the first Bert is an 87-year-old World War II veteran who has changed a little girl’s life by simply taking the time to care, time they laid a wreath together. “I was nervous. My parents said to just ‘do whatever Bert listen and relate when no-one else could. While most 15 year olds consider TV personalities and does, no matter what,’” says Jenna. So when it was time for Bert to give the traditional sapop stars to be their role models, Jenna Nixon considers Bert to be hers. The two have a special friendship that spans lute, three-year-old Jenna did the same (a small mistake she more than 11 years. Although it may appear Bert and Jenna still gets teased about). would have little in common, they are both leg amputees and members of The War Amps. Jenna was born missing her tibia, one of the lower bones in her right leg. Her parents decided to have her leg amputated when she was three months old because trying to repair it would take several surgeries. Bert lost his right leg below the knee when he stepped on a landmine in Italy during the war. It was amputee war veterans like Bert who created The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, which provides financial assistance for artificial limbs and holds regional seminars every year for child amputees like Jenna. The friends first came together Cross-generational friends World War II veteran Bert Steinhoff and CHAMP Jenna Nixon. when Bert heard about a special little girl in his southern Ontario town Although Jenna now knows not to do everything Bert that was going to have her leg amputated. Jenna’s mom, does, she says she has learned a lot from him. Sherrie, says Bert called a few days before the surgery. “He has taught me that [amputation] is something I need “He called just to say, ‘Hi, my name is Bert’. And said he would be there for us if we needed anything,” recalls to be proud of and it’s not something to look down upon,” says Jenna. “It’s not a disability, it’s an ability.” Sherrie. Bert believes Jenna helps him as much as he helps her. Bert called the Nixons again when Jenna was almost three years old. This time Bert called to ask if Jenna would He is comforted by the fact that Jenna will continue their lay a wreath with him on behalf of The War Amps at their tradition of laying a wreath and spreading the message of local Remembrance Day ceremony, an honour he carried remembrance, even when he no longer can. “It really has meant a lot to me to have someone walk up out each year. The Nixons said yes and, ever since, it has there with me each year,” says Bert. “In 2011, I had a stroke been Bert and Jenna’s tradition. “After I first asked Jenna to join me in laying the wreath, before the Remembrance Day ceremony and couldn’t parI thought to myself ‘what have I done?’ It is hard enough ticipate. Jenna laid the wreath for me.”

But Jenna and Bert’s friendship goes beyond the Remembrance Day ceremonies. “If Bert or Jenna is sick and the other finds out, a phone call or visit usually takes place,” says Sherrie. “We aren’t buddy, buddies,” says Bert. “But we have a nice relationship. We are friends. We keep in touch. She came to see me in the hospital.” Not only is Jenna grateful for Bert’s friendship, but Jenna’s parents are as well. “Bert has touched Jenna’s life in a way that we couldn’t,” says Sherrie. “I can’t tell Jenna what it’s like to live with an artificial leg, but Bert can.” Jenna agrees that because she and Bert are both amputees, they have a special bond, allowing them to exchange advice and tips about their artificial legs. Jenna says, as she gets older, she wants to be like Bert – confident and independent. According to Bert, she’s already there. “Jenna is a child that goes ahead and does things,” he says. “She doesn’t wait for you. I remember when she was little, before I think she was able to walk, she had her sister pulling her around town in a wagon so she could collect pennies for The War Amps.” Bert and Jenna’s friendship reflects The War Amps philosophy of “amputees helping amputees.” Jenna says she will always treasure her friendship with Bert. “He has always been part of my life,” says Jenna. “I’m never going to forget Bert.” “Being around young people gives me the greatest lift,” says Bert. “Knowing I can do something for someone that makes a difference – that makes me feel good.” SL For more information about The War Amps and how you can get involved visit www.waramps.ca

The War Amps A Legacy of

“Amputees Helping Amputees”

Zakary is a member of the Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program.

Since 1918, The War Amps has met the needs of war amputees. Today, the Association continues to serve them, and all Canadian amputees, including children. The CHAMP Program provides ﬁnancial assistance for artiﬁcial limbs, regional seminars and peer support. Through CHAMP, The War Amps tradition of “amputees helping amputees” will continue long into the future. For planned giving information, contact: The War Amps 1 800 363-4067 plannedgiving@waramps.ca waramps.ca

Charitable Registration No. 13196 9628 RR0001

Leave a legacy in your Will to Variety - The Children’s Charity and help children who have special needs in the province. Your generosity will help us continue to provide hope, enrich lives, and build a better future for children like Xander. For more information on how to leave a legacy: Call 604 320 0505 or Toll-free 1 800 310-KIDS (5437) or visit our website at www.variety.bc.ca/legacy.htm WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

NOVEMBER 2013

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Planned Giving

THE KULLY SEKHON MEMORIAL FUND A Legacy of Care and Kindness

Leaving a legacy to Covenant House is like being a Grandparent to over 1,400 kids a year. Your bequest to Covenant House ensures our young people a welcoming smile, a safe place, support and a chance for a new life. 575 Drake Street Vancouver, BC V6B 4K8 Phone: 604-638-GIFT (4438) www.covenanthousebc.org BN 89767 5625 RR 0001

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at any time to help build the principle. The fund’s initial award, granted in August 2013, helped Shelly Olsen, Case Manager for Island Health’s Home & Community Care, to further her understanding of a critical element of her work. In her role as a Social Worker, Shelly must often help elderly clients and their family members make important decisions in stressful times. The Kully Sekhon Award helped her offset the expense of attending a five-day course with intense coverage of ethics in healthcare. Shelly sums up the course as “learning an ethical framework and guiding principles to ensure that all aspects of the situation are explored and the team, including the client and family, are equipped to make an informed choice.” It is no secret the government healthcare budget is stretched and, therefore, funding for educational opportunities is limited. “The Sekhon family is extremely happy to know the fund helped a dedicated and passionate healthcare employee pursue an education goal.” Says Kully’s daughter Anika, “Shelly is exactly who this award is geared towards!” Kully’s legacy of caring has been passed on to her children, who have both chosen careers in healthcare, and to her many friends and colleagues inspired and mentored in the course of her career. This circle will continue to broaden as the years go by and an ever-growing number of people benefit from the education awards provided SL by this fund. Photo: Ken Sekhon

uldeep (Kully) Sekhon was al money and bolster awareness for the a Social Worker. During her establishment of this legacy fund, which lifetime her willingness to is held and administered by the Greater advocate for those whose voices were Victoria Eldercare Foundation. no longer heard, to share her insights into the needs of the elderly and their family caregivers made her a respected mentor and educator for others working in the field of care for the elderly. After her death in 2009, her family and friends came together to establish the Kully Sekhon Memorial Fund, a legacy that will ensure that advocacy continues in her memory. A legacy can be a monetary gift or an important ethic passed on from one generation to the next. In the case of the Kully Sekhon Memorial Fund, memories of one lifetime spent During her lifetime – and beyond – Kully Sekhon caring for others blended with advocated for others. the determination of many to The Kully Sekhon Memorial Fund is acknowledge and celebrate that commitment has created a lasting gift. Personal designed to support the ongoing educadonations were collected from friends, tion of a wide range of healthcare workfamily, colleagues and those whose ers caring for the elderly on Vancouver lives were touched by Kully’s kindness. Island. It is an Open Fund, which means A special event helped to raise addition- that donations may be added to the fund

For more information, call the Eldercare Foundation at 250-370-5664.

Look Closer… What do you see people, what do you see Is it just an old man when you look at me Do you see that in my life I was brave, strong and true That I built a home and a family that I loved through and through That I could ﬁx anything, lead Sunday drives and was a huge hockey fan Do you know that I took pride in being a generous and kind man Now my wife has gone before me and I ﬁnd myself sad When I remember the joys and the great fun we often had Here I am left with a frail body and mind Depending on others and hoping they’ll be kind If I could ask you anything it would be to realize My life still has meaning, – I’m sure you can see it in my eyes I am still here and I am still that same guy But now what’s important has only come to be That you look closer, look close and…

See Me.

The Eldercare Foundation enhances the care, comfort, dignity and independence of hundreds of elderly residents living in care facilities and generally supports elderly persons living on Vancouver Island by funding community programs and education for seniors and their caregivers.

Outdated equipment needs to be replaced, community programs that allow people to stay in their homes longer need to be funded and care facilities need to feel more like home. It will require just over one million dollars to fill these urgent needs alone. Funds to provide valuable education and research to improve the way the elderly are cared for are also urgently needed. Please consider donating today. Your legacy will help us enhance quality of life for our valued elders for generations to come.

1454 Hillside Ave., Victoria, BC V8T 2B7 250-370-5664 � www.gvef.org WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

GVEF ��

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Planned Giving

Senior Volunteers: So Many Reasons to Help

BY STARR MUNRO

olunteers make up the backbone of most non-profit organizations. The motivation behind volunteering is vast. Helping others, making new friends, improving self-confidence, learning new skills and increasing personal happiness are only a few of the many reasons people choose to contribute their time and resources. Rosemarie Davenport has been actively volunteering at the North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) since 2002. NIWRA is a worldclass wildlife rehabilitation and public education facility, located in Errington,

BC that specializes in the care of raptors and black bears. Rosemarie began volunteering at NIWRA as a tour guide. Over time, she increased her involvement with the organization and started delivering wildlife education programs to elementary school children. She helped expand and update NIWRA’s existing in-school education programs and developed new programs to meet the BC school curriculum for all grade levels. In 2009, Rosemarie become the Volunteer Coordinator at NIWRA. “Wildlife is one of my chief interests and seeing the way in which NIWRA

You can make a difference.

respects and works to rehabilitate animals that have, for the most part, suffered at the hands of humans, simply rang a bell with me,” says Rosemarie. “It made me want to help out in any capacity I could. I have the utmost admiration for the work that is done at NIWRA and feel happy to be a small part of it.” “Retirement gives one time to reflect on what you really want to do and I found that being at NIWRA, helping children and adults to appreciate the amazing wildlife we have on Vancouver Island was just my cup of tea,” says Rosemarie. “Selfishly, I am thrilled at

A Gift for the Future By including Victoria Hospice in your Will or estate plan, �� care in your community. �� the future of Victoria Hospice, please contact: Natasha Benn, SENIOR DEVELOPMENT OFFICER – PLANNED GIVING �� Email: Natasha.Benn@victoriahospice.org ��

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Care, Comfort, Compassion

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being able to have a glove-trained wild owl or falcon on my wrist. To answer questions and help people of all ages understand just how special these animals are.” “Get out, volunteer for something that you feel fits with your own interests,” says Rosemarie. “Is there something that you have always thought you might like to try, even if you have never actually had related experience? It is never too late to learn and most organizations will welcome you with open arms!” “Volunteering is a way to give back to the community, to meet new and interesting people, to grow outside your comfort zone and to have fun,” says Royce Shook, a senior who volunteers at the BC Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support (BCCEAS). “Volunteering and giving of your time is not easy, but it is not really hard work either. It is however, very

“You helped me live my life, not my disease.” “The centre staff helped me discover how to enjoy life again.” ��

Photo: NIWRA

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Rosemarie Davenport releasing a Barred Owl at NIWRA.

rewarding on a personal level.” Royce is one of a number of older adults that volunteer at BCCEAS on the Community Education Team, as part of their Seniors Reaching Out to Seniors program. The Team delivers workshops on financial literacy and elder abuse prevention to other groups of older adults and seniors. Composed of men and women from wide variety of backgrounds, team members volunteer their time and undergo intensive training to improve their presentation skills and workshop knowledge. Since 2008, the BCCEAS Community Education Team has delivered 300 workshops, to nearly 4,000 older adults in the Lower Mainland. “With an aging baby boomer population, it is imperative that older adults be made aware of different types of abuse and to realize that the perpetrators are sometimes trusted members of the family or of the broader based society,” says Lynda Caron, another BCCEAS Community Education Team volunteer. “I am concerned about the welfare of our seniors, and I enjoy and appreciate the opportunity of working with them.”

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Your Legacy Is Her Future.

Since 1973, the Canadian Section of Amnesty International has promoted and protected human rights at home and abroad, through ongoing campaigning, outreach and education programs. By remembering Amnesty International in your will and estate planning, you will be helping to build a future where the fundamental dignity of every person is respected worldwide. For information and assistance, contact: Heather Warren, Gift Planning Associate (613) 744-7667 ext. 239 hwarren@amnesty.ca www.amnesty.ca/plannedgiving 1-800-AMNESTY

“I find seniors tend to listen to people their age, who have the experience and patience to listen to them,” says Royce. “I encourage people to think about volunteering.” For Alf Todd, volunteering helps him feel encouraged, while he is helping to empower others. Alf’s early retirement years came with an unexpected set of personal challenges. In 2007, Alf was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s disease. Rather than becoming totally disheartened with his circumstances, Alf, a committed Christian, reframed his life and uses love and humour to help people better understand what it is like to live with Parkinson’s.

Alf Todd raises money cycling in support of Parkinson’s Research.

Charitable Reg. No. 11878 5914 RR 0001

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Photo: Starr Munro

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“You can stand around and have a pity party, or you come up with a positive attitude. Do the best you can and be thankful and grateful for what you have,” says Alf. “I try not to grieve over what I can’t do, but am thankful for what I can.” And what Alf can do is amazing. Filled with the hope for Parkinson’s research, Alf, an avid cyclist prior to his illness, recently rode from Victoria to San Francisco with 16 other cyclists raising $29,000. His team, called Parky’s Peddlers, donated a portion of the money they raised to Team Fox, the grassroots community fundraising program at The Michael J. Fox Foundation, and a portion of the money to the HeadWay Victoria Epilepsy and Parkinson’s Centre. Beyond fundraising, Alf is also quick to offer help and support to others at the HeadWay Victoria Epilepsy and Parkinson’s Centre. Taking a leadership role in his Young Onset Parkinson’s Support Group, he is often invited to speak on behalf of the United Way, and he is active at his local church. When it comes to encouraging others his age to get out into the community volunteering, no matter what their circumstances, Alf sums it up perfectly. “If I can do it, you can do it. If you are still breathing, life is not finished yet, and we’ve got work to do. Just get out there and support one SL another.”

My First Fall BY ALF TODD

’Twas November 14, I remember it well; Calling up to my wife, she knew that I fell! I was minding my own business, fixing the car; My brain said “let’s go,” the feet asked “how far?” The answer that came wasn’t quickly enough, My feet were all tangled with each other and stuff. My anxious feet did their best to catch up to the brain, But it was too late, I fought it in vain. As I lay there amongst all my tools and things, I thought to myself “how much pain will this bring?” It wasn’t so much the scrape on my arm, Or the pain in my shoulder that brought the most harm. The thing that hurt and caused the most pain Was the fact that it’ll happen, again and again. As this PD progresses one thing that I see, Simple things that I do, like taking a pee, Are becoming more of challenge, more patience is needed, Advice from my wife should always be heeded. So what can I learn from this mishap that I’ve had? Try to keep smiling and not look so sad. And clean up the shop! To allow some more room, The next time I fall, I’ll trip over the broom.

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A HAND UP!

BY VERNICE SHOSTAL

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portunity in the country to pray and discern what to do next.” Coincidentally, Tom had left a Religious Brotherhood in Montreal, where he felt “the Brothers lived too well while surrounded by the poor folk of the city who were not sufficiently cared for by the [church],” Patricia says. Eventually, Tom went to Australia to work with a missionary group that served aboriginal people.

VHES volunteers director Steve Foley and recording secretary Jo-Anne Layton at McGivney House.

Photo: Vernice Shostal

rom her home on Mayne Island, Australian-born humanitarian Patricia Fitzgerald is a key volunteer in the Victoria Human Exchange Society (VHES), a grassroots organization established in 1992 to provide support and advocacy for people working hard to solve their own problems. The society, a totally volunteer registered charity, provides temporary, affordable, dignified housing to people who need it. VHES exists primarily to support homeless and low-income individuals as they strive to help themselves. More than a hand out, it offers people a hand up. As Taoist founder Lao Tzu said, “Give a man a fish; feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish; feed him for a lifetime.” Teaching someone to become self-sufficient and able to survive without being provided for gives that person a sense of achievement and fulfillment. Mother, grandmother, caregiver and retired teacher Patricia, now nearing her 80s, began her humanitarian journey in her youth. She completed teacher training in Melbourne in her late teens and, to please her mother, at age 19, entered a convent where she dedicated her life to service. “I persevered for 18 years in religious life, but felt in my heart it was a good preparation for something else,” she says. “That ‘something else’ has unfolded as the years went by.” Patricia met her husband, Tom, when they were both volunteering at a retreat for poor families in Montserrat near Melbourne. The two volunteered to mind the children, prepare meals and clean cabins while the parents rested. “I had recently left my religious congregation and been told about this op-

After approximately a year, Patricia and Tom decided they could work together as a couple since their backgrounds and ideals were similar. They married in 1975 and left Sydney for Canada. Met by Tom’s friends in Vancouver, the couple moved to the Cranbrook-Kimberley area where they were asked to foster a First Nation child “who needed a lot of care, having been in hospital for almost his entire life and failing to thrive because of FASD [Fetal

Alcohol Spectrum Disorder].” “He was 16 months old when we took him into our home in Kimberley,” says Patricia. “We thought as he had a collapsed lung and needed a humidifier to help him breathe, he would do better near the coast, so we followed friends who were moving to this place called Mayne Island.” On Mayne Island, Tom built their house and worked as a house painter until he retired. He died of cancer in 2013. While raising their child, Patricia took summer and winter courses at Camosun College and UVic, obtained a Canadian teaching certificate and, for a while, taught on Mayne Island. In 1985, as their son, Wayne, grew older, Patricia took him to Victoria to attend larger schools. “He is First Nations, and I wanted him to meet his people and learn carvings,” says Patricia. “He is now a world famous carver and lives on Mayne Island.” While their son attended school in Victoria, Patricia took classes at Camosun College, earned a Community Care Certificate and found work in Senior Care and private homes. Always a caring individual, Patricia began to volunteer at the 9-10 Club, a soup kitchen under St. Andrews Cathedral and became a board member of the original Anawin House in Victoria. At the 9–10 Club, Patricia says she met homeless people who lived near an apple tree under the Johnson Street Bridge. During the cold winter of ’91–’92, one of the homeless, Larry Baker, judged by his friends as a gentle-spirited person, died of exposure. On Valentine’s Day, 1992, Patricia participated in a barbeque and service held in Larry’s memory. Attendees at the barbeque heard from Larry’s friends that when one becomes homeless, one loses one’s individual identity; one is labeled and segregated from the rest of the human race. Homeless people are depressed and turn to alcohol and drugs for consolation and to drown their hopelessness and helplessness. A concerned group agreed that “People known by their gifts flourish; people known by their weaknesses languish.” This group wanted to help develop the

gifts of those living on the street by giving them support as they tried to face and solve the challenges confronted them. As a result, the VHES, formed with the isolated people under the Johnson Street Bridge, opened two “Apple Seed” Houses in Victoria. Patricia, an original board member, took on the role of Vice-Chair. VHES houses are rented from owners who understand the need to house those who have no fixed address because of poverty, addiction, marriage break-up, unemployment, under-employment, mental illness and other related problems. These owners have kept the rents low and have even raised money for the VHES within their own circles. “It is simply a partnership of human beings,” states VHES’s mission statement. Still a key member of the society, Patricia does financial work for all the houses, submitting invoices and receipts to their accounting technician. She writes applications for funding and supports people by telephone and email. “Volunteers can use our application on the website if they have gifts to share,” says Patricia, who, since 2005, has also been raising two of her grandchildren “because they were in danger of being lost in the system.” Having provided temporary, dignified housing for over 20 years, the VHES recently opened its eighth house on Vancouver Island and now operates three houses in Victoria, two in Sidney, one on Salt Spring Island and two in Nanaimo. “Our hope is that the spirit of the Human Exchange will spread throughout the world,” says Patricia, “and that no one has only a tree under a bridge.” SL To donate to the Victoria Human Exchange Society, or to leave a legacy, visit www.humanx.org, contact by telephone 250-857-3905 or 250-920-5056, or email: vhesvic@victoria.tc.ca or grandmas@saltspring.co, or mail directly to VHES, Box 8534, Victoria, BC, V8W 3S1.

Experience the power of giving.

putting life into days

Leave a legacy of compassionate care for those facing end-of-life experience. Your options include: • Donations In Memory • Monthly Giving • Wills and Bequests • Gifts of Securities • Gifts of Life Insurance • Gifts of RRSPs/RRIFs To request more information about planned giving options please call 604-945-0606 or email info@crossroadshospice.bc.ca www.crossroadshospice.bc.ca Help us help others. No gift is too small.

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IT’S MORE THAN A GIFT. IT’S TIME. Help give Canadians more time by including the Heart and Stroke Foundation in your will planning.

Small Acts of Kindness BY STARR MUNRO

Jane Westheuser, Advisor, Gift Planning (604) 730-7370 or jwestheuser@hsf.bc.ca heartandstroke.bc.ca

hen it comes to helping others, it’s often the little acts of caring and kindness that have the greatest impact. For Jeannie Denton, small acts of kindness such as cooking up meals, making small financial donations, sharing her knowledge with others and encouraging her friends, acquaintances and local businesses to take action has resulted in her becoming a champion and ambassador for Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island. It all began with the birth of her grandson. A moment of pure joy that was, unfortunately, short lived. Jeannie’s grandson Ethan was born having difficulties feeding, breathing and sleeping. The doctors said he was “failing to thrive.” After what seemed like endless test and procedures, scopes and biopsies, two hernia repairs and sur-

THE DIFFERENCE YOU MAKE COULD BE LIFE ITSELF

The gift you leave in your Will helps thousands of women and newborns each year. Every gift makes a real difference. With a legacy to BC Women’s Hospital Foundation you transform the lives of others for generations to come. LEARN MORE + MAKE A GIFT AT www.bcwomensfoundation.org OR CALL 604.875.2270

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Jeannie Denton with Ethan, her grandson and philanthropic inspiration.

Photo: Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island

gery to remove his adenoids, the doctors still could not figure out what was wrong with little Ethan. Almost three years after his birth, Ethan finally received a diagnosis: Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EE). Essentially, Ethan is allergic to food. Ethan can only eat six foods: broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, yams, potatoes and homemade applesauce. A grandmother who loves to cook, Nannie Jeannie decided to take on the challenge of feeding her grandson. She concocted a special soup for Ethan to eat along with his special formula. But simply helping to feed Ethan wasn’t enough. Jeannie wanted to do more for her precious grandson. “Before Ethan was born, I had never heard of The Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island,” says Jeannie. “I never needed, nor knew anyone who had needed to utilize the services, people or resources of the Foundation.” The Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island is the organiza-

Let your compassion live on. Help end the cycle of poverty and despair by supporting Our Place through a bequest. For more info contact Rhiannon Porcellato 919 Pandora Avenue Victoria, BC V8V 3P4 t: 250-388-7112 Ext. 258 ourplacesociety.com WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM LEGACYad.indd 1

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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria changes lives. And so do your donations. There are over 600 children in our community looking for a Big Brother or Big Sister.

You can help them reach their full potential by considering a charitable donation. For more information please visit us online at www.bbbsvictoria.com Or call our Executive Director, Rhonda Brown 250-475-1117 ext. 47

tion that supports Jeannie’s grandson, by providing funding for programs at the Queen Alexandra Centre for Children’s Health in Victoria. The Foundation also helps Ethan’s parents cover the high costs of his special formula and his therapeutic riding lessons, which are beneficial to his muscle and tone development. “Ethan was able to get some funding to participate in a horse riding therapy class, through the Children’s Health Foundation,” says Jeannie. “It meant so much to Ethan, his parents and our family. I wanted to give something back, it just makes sense to support the Foundation in whatever way I can.” In addition to contributing financially to the Foundation, Jeannie has spoken at several public events on behalf of the Foundation. She shares the story of Ethan’s food allergies and expresses her gratitude for the Foundation’s support. “You can never imagine needing the support of an organization like Children’s Health Foundation, but when you do need it, you have much to be thankful for,” says Jeannie. “Ethan isn’t the only kid in the world that needs help. If everybody could give just a little, think of how many children we could help to make well, how many parents we could provide with comfort and support.” Jeannie’s is an avid supporter of Jeneece Place located near the Victoria General Hospital, a home away from home owned and operated by Children’s Health Foundation. Jeneece Place is a residence for families travelling to Victoria for

Your Legacy Is Their Future Ensure insightful, inspiring, commercial-free programming continues for generations to come. Please remember Knowledge Network in your will and trusts.

For more information contact: Donna Robinson 604.431.3136 Toll Free 1.877.456.6988 plannedgiving@knowledge.ca www.knowledge.ca/partners

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their child’s medical care. Ethan’s family lives in Central Saanich, but it’s a long way from home when he is admitted to the hospital for long periods of time. The family takes advantage of Jeneece Place’s day-use option, open to families who need a quiet place to rest, to grab a bite to eat, or to take a shower after spending hours by their child’s bedside.

“If everybody could give just a little, think of how many children we could help to make well...” To contribute to Jeneece Place, Jeannie arranged for Island Savings Credit Union and the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific to tend the yard. “People don’t realize sometimes that there are many ways to contribute. If you like gardening, you could pop over to Jeneece Place and spend a few hours helping to pull some weeds. How simple is that?” says Jeannie. “If you have a love of doing something, share it with someone, there are many organizations that could use your help.” “It’s about joining our hearts together, whether we are volunteering or making donations, whatever our resources are, to help our fellow man,” says Jeannie. “Kid’s are our future. Let’s do what we can to get them healthy enough to become seniors themselves one day.” SL

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Be involved today by planting seeds for future generations. Explore the vision of your legacy with

CRD Regional Parks WHERE GIFTS GROW

www.crd.bc.ca/legacies legacy@crd.bc.ca | 250.360.3330

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Community Leader

BUILDING A DREAM BY JUDEE FONG

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Berwick Retirement Communities co-founder Gordon Denford in the rose garden of Berwick Royal Oak.

Photo: Judee Fong

n 1940, England’s fear of a German invasion after the fall of France, was a very possible reality. The decision to evacuate children living in the city of Bristol and other west coastal towns to Commonwealth countries like Canada, New Zealand and Australia was instrumental in shaping the future of Gordon Denford, co-founder/builder of the Berwick Retirement Communities. Gordon was 13 years old when he was evacuated to Canada. He clearly remembers, “It was a very traumatic experience not only for me, but also for my parents as I was their only child. Bristol was the centre of my young life. I had never even been to London yet. I was organizing kids my age to deal with incendiary bombs in my area.” Gordon’s father worked as an ambulance driver for Bristol. At that time, most English school children from working class families went on to a specialized trade-school after age 14. Gordon’s teacher was excited for him to continue his education as he was a promising student. “I won a scholarship to Cotham, a public school that was like the private schools here. Peter Higgs, who later became famous for quantum mechanics, was a few years ahead of me at the same school.” Looking ahead to a bright future, Gordon had plans to apply for a scholarship to either the University of Bristol, known for its architectural and science programs or, possibly, Cambridge known for its science programs. But the war intervened and his life changed forever. “One day I came home from school, my suitcase was packed, and the next day, I was on a secret convoy sailing to Canada.” Gordon’s English education was more advanced compared to that of Canadian children. To determine his grade

placement, he was tested with Canadian children his age and found to be two years ahead, especially in sciences like chemistry. He was already proficient with Latin. As a result, Gordon found himself in classes with children two years older. “It wasn’t because I was brighter, but because my English education started earlier,” says Gordon. It was a difficult time for a 13 year old to adjust to being separated from his home and parents, being in classes with older boys and just being different. “I was a different kind of child from the one my first foster parents were expecting,” he recalls. “I could speak in two different dialects. One was the Bristol street dialect, which was like Quaker English. Instead of ‘you,’ it was ‘thee’ and instead of ‘yours,’ it would be ‘thine.’ The other dialect was a posh Cambridge one. I’m also able to mimic any other dialect, if I hear it long enough.” Money was scarce to pay for his continuing education. “By the end of the war, many veterans were returning to university. Lab instructors were needed to teach biochemistry as a prerequisite for first- and second-year students. To solve his financial problems, Gordon became a lab instructor for the university. “I started when I was 16. For my second and third year, I was teaching Math. I had to relate to my students and teach them what they needed to know. In 1945, it was difficult to relate to some as a number of them were veterans who were older and had been fighting a war.” Six months before graduating, Gordon was notified that all the evacuated children would be returning home to England. He had a difficult decision to make. “I didn’t see myself as a full-time teacher,” he says. “I was no longer a 13-year-old boy, but a young man of 18. I was in the middle of my final university year. When I first arrived, I was overeducated and if I returned home, I would be undereducated. So, I was at a serious crossroads.” Once he decided to remain in Canada, all funding from the British government immediately ceased. Gordon was on his own with a bit of help from his parents and his salary as a lab instructor. Knowing his education was important, he worked hard to successfully graduate. When the company where he worked closed, Gordon decided to move to the west coast for a fresh start. “I worked as a salesman for an electrical heating company in Vancouver. I used a bus-pass to go from client to client as I didn’t have a car. I would sell these units and an electrician installed them in the homes. One day, I told my boss I would like to move to Vancouver Island, where there was a good market for these heating units. He was agreeable and told me the same benefits and salary would still apply, but I told him, ‘No, I’m going to set up my own business in Victoria and be a distributor for your heating units.’ Gordon found a qualified electrician willing to work for him. By the late 1960s, Gordon’s company was one of the largest on

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delightful

Join us for another afternoon at the Wellesley of Victoria.

1:30

Travel Presentation on Pompeii

2:30

Tea Time with entertainers; Steve & Allen Jewellery Sale with Pat Bedard

Nov.

8th

Call Margo to RSVP 250.419.6807 A Retirement Concepts Community

wellesleyvictoria.com

Visit us online to learn more about Independent and Assisted Living

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Vancouver Island. Meanwhile over the years, Gordon had been happily designing homes for a number of friends, helping them with their floor plans. “My first building was for my first foster parents who had a vacant Uplands lot. I actually drew some plans for them, which my builder friend, George Yakimovich, built.” The satisfaction of Gordon’s first construction project was followed by apartments and small condominiums. His first major retirement condominium, Summergate Village, was built in 1978. In the 70s, Gordon and his team noticed the number of Canadian “Snowbirds” in their 50s who purchased manufactured homes in Arizona or Florida and wintered there. Gordon’s idea was to build a place in Sidney where people, 55+, could live and enjoy their Sidney home for the summer or all-year round. Gordon recalls, “It took a lot of discussion with Council and the townspeople because there were many who protested the idea of this development and warned it would be a ‘low-trash trailer park.’ That image was not a pretty picture.” The other question asked was who would be buying it? Surprisingly, the new owners were mostly women, 75+, who were lonely sitting alone in their empty family houses. Doing a follow-up survey, Gordon discovered these women were still lonely in their condominiums and many didn’t even know their neighbours down the hall. They liked the idea of a community centre with a variety of activities and a community newspaper. “I said to my son, Chris who is also my partner, ‘One day, we’ll build all of these ideas into one building.’” Gordon and Chris tossed about ideas. They considered areas they would like to live in themselves. “Everything we build, looks like it belongs. We study the location, the community, the culture and then we put the building in. The building is attractive and comfortable. When you walk through the door, you want that ‘Wow’ factor and this leads to a sense of residents’ pride on where they live.” “Some of the factors we consider are: it has to look like it belongs there; it’s not out of place and it doesn’t pander to any fads. For example, turrets may be the fad of that year, but we don’t do that. We don’t build anything that would look out of place a few years down the road.” Gordon, Chris and the architectural management team of Sid Chow and Jackson Lowe have been friends and colleagues for 25 years. Through their close collaborations, this dynamic team noticed that seniors in their 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s have different expectations and lifestyles. Yet, the Berwick retirement homes proved there was something that appeals to nearly everyone. “We’re a team,” says Gordon. “It takes a team to create an idea and make it reality.” Twenty-five years ago, the first Berwick at Shelbourne and Feltham opened its doors. “At that time, we did two

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things that were ground-breaking: the next level of care available after being independent, and that this next level would still be at the same site. There wouldn’t be any traumatic moves simply because you needed more assistance,” Gordon says proudly. Gordon is involved with numerous worthwhile causes and organizations, but he has always maintained a keen interest in education. He has served on the boards of Pearson College, Glenlyon and Norfolk House as well as the Camosun Foundation. At the community colleges, he has established scholarships and bursaries to mostly single women who are training to be caregivers or nurses aids. He candidly admits, “My own break came when I was able to earn a scholarship to a school my parents could never afford to send me.” At an early age, Gordon showed his independence and organizational abilities. He was thrown into a different culture and country by the war and proved he had the strength of character to adapt and survive. Throughout his life, he realized education was the key and pushed himself to succeed. “I believe you can do anything,” he says. “You don’t need to be the expert. You just hire people smarter than you; make sure their working environment is a pleasant one; that they are encouraged to do a good job because they genuinely like what they do. This formula shows what an excellent staff and team can do if SL given the support to do it.”

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Lest We Forget

Vancouver Island Spitﬁre Pilots Reunite BY PAT MURPHY

hen Canada entered World War II in September 1939, Jim O’Toole had been 16 for just 46 days. Born on July 26, 1923 near Dollard, Saskatchewan, Jim, like many young men had a fascination with flight and aviation. He knew he would enlist in the Royal Canadian Air Force as soon as he was old enough. In the meantime, farm chores and schooling would be his priority and he would share these priorities with his brothers and his one sister.

Jim O’Toole, age 21, of 443 Squadron RCAF, sitting in the cockpit of his Spitﬁre. Circa March 1945.

Living in Saskatchewan in the Dirty Thirties meant everyone in the family pitched in and made the best of a very difficult economic situation. Between the drought, the dust and the Depression, rural southwestern Saskatchewan was only for the hardiest of Canadians. Jim graduated from school in June 1941 and started working at a local pharmacy. The attack on Pearl Harbour in December was instrumental in his final 32 30

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decision to enlist. On February 1, 1942, With the help of Jim’s daughter Mauat age 18, Jim went to Regina and en- reen, the Nanaimo-based, Vancouver Islisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force. land Military Museum honoured Jim’s He adapted to military life with ease Air Force service by placing a scale and, after much training in various bases model of one of the 443 Squadron Spitacross Canada, earned his wings. Early fires that Jim flew into its “Canadian in his training, it soon became apparent Spitfire” display. The Spitfire display to flight instructors that Jim had an ap- features 40 Canadian Spitfire models titude for flying single-engine fighters. and honours the service of Canadian At the time, Jim had no idea he would Spitfire pilots eventually be posted to one of the most famous of all RCAF Spitfire Squadrons, flying dangerous operations over Europe. Posted to England in July 1943, Jim received further training and flew a number of different aircraft including the Hawker Hurricane in a variety of rolls with several different Squadrons. The ultimate experience took place on February 21, 1945 when Jim was posted to 443 Squadron RCAF (The HorTwo Spitﬁre pilots reunite at the Museum: Jim nets) flying the famous SupermaO’Toole, left, and former Wing Commander rine Spitfire under the command of James “Stocky” Edwards, right. Squadron Leader Art Sager. The dedication ceremony was held Jim flew numerous combat sorties with his Spitfire and finished the war on July 26, 2013, coincidently, on the with that Squadron. He survived the vi- occasion of Jim’s 90th birthday. The cious air war over Europe and logged event was attended by such notables as his last flight in the Spitfire on Septem- Member of Parliament Dr. James Lunber 4, 1945. He remembers it being a ney, Nanaimo’s Mayor John Ruttan, very sad day when the RCAF pilots Honorary Colonel Russ Burke, Chairgave up their beloved Spitfires; the war man of the Nanaimo Port Authority Bob was over and those who survived had to Bennie, Port Authority Board member get on with their lives. Jim arrived home and former news editor of the Nanaimo for Christmas in 1945. Daily Free Press and city council memAfter the war, Jim enrolled at the ber Merv Unger, plus two officers from University of Manitoba and gradu- 443 Squadron, now a helicopter Squadated from the faculty of Medicine in ron based in Victoria. 1952. Doctor O’Toole practised medJim’s eight children attended the cericine in Winnipeg until his retirement emony from various points in Canada as in 1984 and, shortly after, moved to well as one daughter all the way from Vancouver Island with his wife Betty, Ireland and 50 members of his famwhere they built their dream home in ily. Special guest Retired Wing ComNanoose Bay. mander James “Stocky” Edwards, who WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

Photos: Courtesy of VIMM

Jim O’Toole was joined by his eight children at the Vancouver Island Military Museum for the dedication ceremony.

commanded the fighter Wing that 443 Squadron was part of also attended from his home in Comox. Stocky Edwards led his Spitfire Squadrons on several sorties of which ��

Jim was a part, and Jim remembers the pre-sortie briefings Stocky gave prior to take-off. He recalls them being very informative and carefully given; Jim was confident with Stocky’s leader-

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ship and experience. During the ceremony, Stocky Edwards spoke of Jim’s dedication and his flying skills. Military traditions run deep in veterans even though 68 years have passed since Jim O’Toole and Stocky Edwards flew Spitfires together over Belgium, Holland and Germany. After the ceremony, Jim thanked Stocky for his kind words, still referring to him as “Sir!” During the dedication ceremony, Museum Vice President Brian McFadden said, “it was such a unique opportunity to have these two Spitfire pilots reunited at the Museum, and that it is probably the only time it would ever happen.” The O’Toole family donated a copy of Jim’s wartime flight log to the museSL um’s library for visitors to view. For more information about Vancouver Island Military Museum, including hours of operation, www.vimms.info

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Something We All Need to Think About BY SUSAN EVANS

one of us knows what tomorrow will bring. A health crisis could affect you or a family member at any time. Advance care planning allows you to have a say in the health care you will receive if you are too sick to speak for yourself. It is a way to reflect on your values, beliefs and wishes so you can make your own health care decisions. By discussing and documenting your wishes with your loved ones, health care team and family physician, you can be sure they will be better able to act on your behalf. Island Health Student Nurse Nicole Warren shares her story and thoughts about Advance care planning: In November 2012, I was hired as an employed student nurse with the Seniors at Risk Integrated Network (SARIN). Since then, I have had the opportunity to work alongside the SARIN Advance Care Planning RN, attending advance care planning (ACP) home visits and public presentations. As I began to understand the importance of ACP, I decided to approach my grandmother about it. I was curious to know if she had talked to anyone about her future health care wishes. Even though my grandmother and I are close, I felt nervous about bringing it up – this is not the subject of every day conversation. It turned out my grandmother was grateful to have someone in her life who wanted to make sure she will be taken care of, so her voice will still be heard when she is no longer able to speak for herself. My ACP discussion with my grandmother triggered a memory. When I was 12 years old, I remember standing at my grandfather’s bedside as he was dying. I was too young to understand death and the logistics of life-support and lifeprolonging medical interventions. I do remember most of my family wondering why my grandfather was not on kidney dialysis to keep him alive. My grandparents had talked about this when my grandfather was still able to make his own health care decisions, and he expressed his wishes then – he did not want to be put on dialysis. My current ACP knowledge, combined with my experience surrounding the death of my grandfather, made me realize how important it is to have those conversations with your loved ones while you are able. I find comfort in knowing my grandfather’s wishes were known – and followed. Although I am only 22, I have completed my own advance care plan. I started the process of ACP by having a conversation to discuss my health care wishes with my family. I’ve also written down what brings meaning and value to my life. I am currently helping the rest of my family complete their own 34 32

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advance care plans using the Government of BC’s advanced the ACP guide. care planning guide titled My Voice: Expressing My Wishes Death is an inevitable part of life. In my work, I have for Future Health Care Treatment. This resource provides heard stories and witnessed uncertainty as families argue suggestions to help start the conversation. about what to do. They are trying to make the right deciThis conversation can be difficult, but it’s important in sion, but often find themselves guessing what their loved the process of advance care planning. Talking now means one would have wanted. The sadness and grief that accomfamilies won’t have to scrampanies the end of a life can’t be denied. However, as a ble to make difficult and emoBy discussing and documenting your nursing student, a daughter, tional decisions later. a sister, a friend and a grandA founding director of the wishes with your loved ones, health Division of Palliative Care at daughter, I take comfort in the care team and family physician, you the University of British Cofact that when these conversalumbia Dr. Romayne Gallations occur, families are better can be sure they will be better able prepared. It can decrease guilt gher says, “Most people find if they have some idea what and stress when decisions are to act on your behalf. made based on the expressed their loved one had in mind, it makes a difference” when wishes of their loved ones. Advance care planning has affected me professionally considering these emotional decisions. It also helps to think about and write down values and and touched me personally. I look forward to continuing to beliefs, things that bring meaning to your life. This also apply the knowledge I have gained about ACP to my nurshelps family members make future health care decisions. ing practice – and my life – to help improve the quality of SL The ACP guide includes optional documents like rep- life and death within our community. resentation agreements and advance directives, along with information to educate people on life-support and life-pro- To access resources to help you write your own advance longing medical treatments. Everything you need to know care plan, please visit www.seniorlivingmag.com/articles/ in order to do your own advance care plan can be found in advanceplan

Join us at Revera – The Kensington �� for our Bone China Tea & Talk.

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November is Osteoporosis Awareness �� & Prevention Month. ��

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Author Proﬁle

THE WILDLIFE ADVOCATE BY MARGARET GROWCOTT

Wildlife expert Val Geist and his grandson Fin collect king boletes.

Born in Nikolayev, a port on the Black Sea in the Ukraine, Val, whose parents were both naval architects, had a harrowing experience during the war. He was separated from his father when he

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Photo: Renate Geist

ince he was a boy, Professor Emeritus of Environmental Science Valerius Geist has been interested in wildlife. This led him to his career as an expert on ungulates (hoofed mammals), particularly mountain sheep – a career that carries on in retirement. On first meeting Val, he opens with, “The deer ate my strawberries this morning, but one cannot blame them,” which brings him to answer a question asked by many: Why are there plentiful deer in urban areas? His reply: “This corresponds with the protection and growth of predator populations, which have played a significant part in reducing deer population in the wild. Deer seek out our habitations as there are no predators in our cities. They have discovered delectable food is readily available in our parks and gardens, hence they do very well. The black-tailed deer, in particular, learn very quickly and are easily tamed as we do not persecute them. How many times have we heard our neighbours bemoan the fact that deer, though beautiful to behold, have decimated their prize roses? In the long run, they don’t really mind.”

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and his mother and grandmother fled to Germany. As a teenager, Val immigrated to Canada with his mother and grandmother in 1953. They settled in Regina where he attended high school but spent most of his time at the Museum of Natural History. Following the advice of Museum Director, Fred Bard, he went to UBC to study Zoology under Professor Ian McTaggart-Cowan. From that subject, he gravitated to Ethology, the study of animal behaviour. “There was never any doubt I would go to university to study zoology,” he says. At UBC in 1957, he met his wife, Renate, also a Zoologist. They discovered they were both originally from the same region in Germany, the small medieval university town of Marburg. At ages seven and eight years old, they had lived within blocks of each other on beautiful “castle mountain” in Marburg and had come to Canada at about the same time. On graduating from UBC in 1961, Val and Renate went to Northern BC (the Spatzisi Plateau, a wilderness park since 1975). Now graduate students, they were studying Stone’s sheep. “I was the first scientist to study Stone’s sheep, a species of darkcoloured thin-horn sheep indigenous to northern BC and the southern Yukon,” says Val. “This sheep is named after Andrew J. Stone, an American explorer. My special interest in mountain sheep was ignited by a book on the subject by a German nobleman, Lothar Graf von Hoensbroech. Inspired by his hunting trip in Canada in 1939, the book was splendid, glowing with his admiration for Canada.” An array of books authored by Val includes titles on mountain sheep, goats, deer, elk, moose, buffalo and even a children’s book on mountain sheep. Some of his books are technical and some are popular books, which combine science and photography. Some are beautiful coffee table tomes with striking covers and amazing photos. In addition, Val has contributed over 40 entries to 17 encyclopaedias and has also written technical papers and popular articles in many journals and magazines. For his 1971 technical book, Mountain Sheep, a Study in Behaviour and Evolution, Val won the Book of the Year Award by the Wildlife Society. More literary and professional awards were to follow for the subsequent books he wrote. He is proud that his work provided justification for management actions and has been instrumental in increasing the population of mountain sheep. Val obtained his PhD in 1966 after which he and Renate went to Germany to study at the Institute of Animal Behaviour at Seewiesen, Bavaria, under Professor Konrad Lorenz, who later won a Nobel Prize. After this short spell in Germany, the couple returned to Canada where Val’s first job was doing research at the University of Calgary’s Kananaskis Centre for Environmental Research. He later accepted a position as Program Director for Environmental Science in the new Faculty of Environmental Design. He also taught graduate and undergraduate courses in the Biology Department. Working in Calgary for 27 years in Environmental Science, Val has had a lifetime involvement with environmental concerns. “Wildlife issues are more important in the US than they are in Canada,” he says. “Sometimes conservation has backfired and there are many dilemmas, but mostly companies act in good faith. Nature takes its unintended outcome. The mandate ‘Keep

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your hands off nature’ is wrong; we must manage nature. The present landscape is formed by the absence of the old native fauna and is not natural.” Val objects to the devastation to wildlife by so-called forest management, particularly clear-cutting. The small patches of old growth left standing were habitat to concentrated deer population in winter, making them an easy target for wolves. Having eliminated most of their natural prey, wolves are starving. “There are hardly any deer in the wilderness – they are driven into cities for security. There is no such thing as a Balance of Nature.” In fact,” says Val, “the backcountry is a wildlife desert.” Another aspect to Val’s work is as an expert witness on wildlife versus humans. One instance was the case where a mountain goat killed a hiker and Val was able to help the case with his expertise. His vast knowledge of ethology has been important in instances of wildlife/vehicle collisions. He is also well-known for his experience in wildlife conservation policy. Val and his wife now live on 20 peaceful acres a few miles north of Port Alberni. “We first came to the Alberni Valley in 1958 because Renate’s parents had moved here. We liked what we saw and visited Vancouver Island summer after summer with children and then grandchildren, finally retiring to this acreage. It’s a wonderful area with easy access to oceans and back country. I cherish my friends in Port Alberni and feel thoroughly at home here. I have travelled a lot, but Port Alberni is special.” The couple have geese, chickens and rabbits (for the pot) and three dogs, while a neighbour uses most of their meadowland to graze beef cattle. They also have multitudinous European vines and Val makes about 200 bottles of wine a year. They grow their own fruit and vegetables: peas, beans, potatoes, garlic, leeks, cucumber, quince and pears. “Our blackberries, plums and apples are magnificent,” says Val. “Renate dries what we can’t eat fresh and sends supplies to our children and grandchildren in Calgary, Montreal and Saskatoon.” Val and Renate love local salmon, which is eaten fresh or saltcured. Venison, in Val’s opinion, is one of the most excellent foods, which has all the right nutrients. This is supplied by Val, hunting in his nearby surroundings. “You have to crop wildlife now and then, and you must know which to take if you are hunting.” With all this farming, fishing and hunting, one wonders how Val has time to continue writing books, papers, articles and affidavits, give interviews on matters pertaining to wildlife and maintain correspondence and phone consultation. Yet, he does. Another book on mountain goats has gone to press. He is also reediting his second book on human evolution hoping to complete it in a few months, plus he’s under contract to edit a book on The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. “I have no time for Twitter or Facebook,” he says. “I do not seek publicity but I am constantly sought out by interested parties for consultation in my specialty.” Once more, ruefully observing that deer helped themselves to his strawberries, Val reiterates, “Like most people, I feel it is a SL small sacrifice.”

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Fit for the Adventure BY EVE LEES

10 Memory Boosters

hen we reach our mid30s, our memories begin to fade and we’ll continue “forgetting” as we age. That’s normal. As we age, we become busier and have more to remember. Here are 10 tips to boost memory: 1. Get organized. Make a list of tasks, or jot things on your calendar or in your daily diary. Don’t put things off; do them as soon as possible so you won’t forget. 2. Take time to remember things. Normal aging changes the brain, making your mind less efficient in processing new information. Slow down and pay full attention. Repeat what you want to remember several times to yourself and you probably won’t forget it. Listen carefully during conversations to remember details and people’s names. 3. Diet is important too. Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants - substances that protect and nourish brain cells. Essential fatty acids found in fish and vegetables also protect and maintain proper functioning of the brain. And drink water: dehydration causes fatigue, making it hard to concentrate.

4. Mental exercise stimulates the brain’s nerve cells to produce new dendrites (connections between nerve cells that allow cells to communicate with one another). This helps the brain store and retrieve information, at any age. Challenge yourself with ongoing education, games and sports that require strategy and concentration (like bowling, golf, chess, crosswords, puzzles), start a new hobby, learn a new language, or learn to play a new instrument. 5. Regular, moderate, physical activity increases the neurons (nerve cells) in the brain. Exercise improves cardiovascular health, which improves blood flow to the brain. Those who stay physically fit, also remain mentally fit. 6. Learn to manage stress. Stress and anxiety interfere with concentration, so it’s important to have relaxation time. Spend at least 15 minutes daily to breathe deeply and clear your mind. Soak in a hot tub or treat yourself to a massage. Take regular vacations. 7. Think positive. Being happy and having a positive outlook makes you more alert. When you’re alert, your senses are more open to receiving information. WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

8. If you are worried about your memory, get evaluated by your doctor or a specialist. Many factors contribute to memory problems. These include using certain medications, poor vision and hearing, vitamin deficiencies, fatigue, depression and stress. Depression, in particular, can cause problems with memory and concentration; it’s often mistaken for Alzheimer’s disease in older adults. 9. Get regular medical checkups. Abnormalities in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and thyroid gland can affect your brain’s functioning. 10. Don’t worry about being forgetful. You’re not the first person to drive off with your coffee cup sitting on the roof of your car. Unless you feel your forgetfulness is unusually frequent, don’t panic. Staying calm improves alertness and, therefore, keeps your SL memory sharp.

Eve Lees was a Personal Trainer and Nutrition Counsellor for 30 years. Currently she is a Freelance Health Writer and Speaker. www.artnews-healthnews.com NOVEMBER 2013

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OCTOBER 2009 39

Photo: Jason van der Valk

ASK Goldie BY GOLDIE CARLOW, M.ED

Dear Goldie: Recently, I moved into a senior residence. Generally, it has been quite pleasant. I am writing because of negative encounters with one staff member. In the presence of other staff, he can be quite courteous, but he becomes rude and hostile on his own. Other residents have similar complaints of this problem with him. What would you suggest? –M.W. Dear M.W.: It is unfortunate that you have this problem in an otherwise pleasant environment. You mention that other residents have the same complaint, so I suggest you meet with the manager of your residence as a group. Also, offer your complaints in writing, and keep a copy for future talks. Usually attacking the problem early achieves the best results.

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to wait for telephone calls and offers to visit from friends. My suggestion is that YOU instigate action! Start today by calling a few friends and arranging a time and place to meet for coffee. That can be a starting point for future contact. Effort on your part can mainSL tain good relationships.

Dear Goldie: I am a 92-year-old woman recovering from a fall six months ago. There were no severe injuries, but I do use a cane. I live in a senior care home and family visit often. I shop and visit friends. The reason I am writing is that most of my former friends never visit me. They keep in touch by telephone, but seem to be too busy to see me in person. Perhaps it is normal at my age, but it is not what I expected. Have you any suggestions? –O.C. Dear O.C.: A sad consequence of aging that we often lose family, friends and homes. Unfortunately, these are accompanied by personal loss of health and the ability to move about. Although it may be normal and even expected, few of us are prepared for the change. Since life is busy, there is a tendency

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Goldie Carlow is a retired registered nurse, clinical counsellor and senior peer counselling trainer. Send letters to Senior Living, Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria, BC V8T 2C1. Senior Peer Counselling Centres – Island Campbell River 250-287-3044 Courtenay/Comox 250-890-0099 Duncan 250-748-2133 Nanaimo 250-754-3331 Port Hardy 250-949-5110 Salt Spring Island 250-537-4607 Sidney 250-656-5537 Victoria 250-382-4331

Senior Peer Counselling Centres – Mainland Burnaby 604-291-2258 Coquitlam – Tri-Cities 604-945-4480 New Westminster 604-519-1064 North Vancouver 604-987-8138 Richmond 604-279-7034 Vancouver West End 604-669-7339 Vancouver Westside 604-736-3588

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Travel & Adventure

Big White Caters to Big Families

BY JANE CASSIE

“A

re we there yet?” This commonly-heard kid quip pops into my mind, a repressed memory from days gone by when we travelled with our five children via minivan. It was before the era of iPods, built-in DVDs, and other mind-amusers, back to a time when rolling scenery was the main attraction and “20 Questions” helped stifle the whines. Was that really two decades ago? Although I’ve certainly adjusted to our empty nest, I’m hopeful that, one day, I’ll hear those inquisitive words again – from the mouths of wee grandkids. But who knows when that’ll happen – our next generation seems to be slow in coming! “What’s our ETA to Big White, Mom,” our 30-plus daughter, Emily, asks while fiddling with her GPS. Before I have time to respond, her older brother pipes up, “My iPhone app says it’s just over five hours.” Things sure have changed! Yet, even though electronics now replace our wrinkled maps and we travel in a convoy instead of a cramped Dodge Caravan, there are two things I can still count on: whenever we plan a family holiday, all five offspring (and a few significant tag-alongs) are on board; and if it’s to a mountain resort that offers a line-up of winter wonders, they’re ecstatic!

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The author (left, in light blue jacket) forms a human chain with her children while tubing down the Mega Snow Coaster.

Big White Ski Resort, just an hour’s drive from sunny Kelowna, appeases all of our vacationing whims. Snowmobiling, sleigh rides, snowshoeing –and, of course, those sensational slopes. Seven annual metres of champagne powder blanket this second largest BC ski resort and 118 runs funnel down to a village that boasts the most ski-in/ski-out lodging. Hotels, townhomes and condos dot the hillside and snuggle up to retail shops, restaurants, spas and specialty stores. We’d been able to scout out the offerings ahead of time and through Central Reservations pre-book a couple of units at Sundance, one of the resort’s family-favourites. “Sweet suite!” our youngest declares, after checking in and claiming his sleeping quarters. We all agree. The craftsmanstyle gems, decked out in cedar and stone boast all the primal perks – right down to the savvy kitchens that turn out to be budget pleasers when the hunger pangs strike. Snuggling up to the Bullet Chair, the slopes are just a glide away – an adventurous escape route that everyone looks forward to trying out. But with little daylight left, we zero in on the family-filled action just footsteps away. As well as a Kids Zone for the

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young tykes, there’s a line-up for our adult brood. Two of our fitness buffs head for the workout room, where their treadmill session is topped off with a hot steam bath. A few others check out the mega screen in Sundance Theatre, then play billiards in a fireside lounge. As for the rest of us – we make a beeline for the outdoor pool, a popular aquatic spot that’s fed by water-sliders and hugged by two bubbly hot tubs. “Our gang would have been leading the way down this glider a few years ago,” I say to my husband, Brent, while watching a few cherub faces submerge with a splash. There I go again, reminiscing of those kid-rearing days. It always seems to happen during these family getaways.

“Another great trip yesterday. I loved the entire day.”

- Linda (Vancouver)

“Good food, good company and a fabulous tour guide!” - Mary (Surrey)

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Photos: Brent Cassie

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LEGION MANOR VICTORIA

A big toast to Big White and big families.

Regardless of age, there’s plenty of slope-side action at this mountain resort to bring out our inner children. A free gondola later takes us down to Happy Valley, where we skate on Canada’s highest Olympic-size ice rink, watch climbers scale the 60-foot Ice Tower and form a human chain while sliding down the Mega Snow Coaster. This groomed tube park gets a blue ribbon for being Canada’s largest. It also provides us with some family bonding time. Literally! Big White’s blessings continue to unfold the next morning when we wake to a dusting of virgin fresh beneath bluebird skies. To gain a better sense of this resort’s magnitude, we join up with Don, one of the resort’s complimentary Snow Hosts, who provides us with an extensive overview while leading the way. With 16 lifts, 2,765 skiable acres (1,147 hectares) and 25kms (15.5 miles) of Nordic trails, there’s a lot of groundwork to cover! “Both this Ridge Rocket and adjacent Snow Ghost Express will take us above the tree line,” Don explains, as we amble onto the high-speed quad. “And from there, we’ll have lots of alpine terrain.” We soon discover this knowledgeable guide is true to his word. The vast powder heavens are scored by a network of

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trails and dotted with winterized evergreens a.k.a. snow ghosts. And from every scenic perch that Don escorts us to, we’re given a run-down of our downhill options and a Monashee panorama. One son, Shaun, breaks away from the group to ascend the T-bar where, from its 2,000-plus-metre summit, he has his choice of steeps and deeps. Two others go in a snaking descent through wooded glades to the base of Gem Lake Express. We’re surprised that our daughter, Emily, and her husband, Jeff, don’t tag along. Usually, these two hot-doggers are at the head of the pack, challenging everything from vertical chutes to mogul minefields. Instead, they join us slower pokes, and with Don in the lead, enjoy a number of laid-back groomers and corduroy cruisers. That’s the great thing about Big White – all of the lifts offer an easy way out, so that a family like ours, with varying ages and ability, can en-

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joy skiing together. As well as being big in peaks and powder, it’s relaxed and uncluttered, much like that of a smaller resort. During our two days of downhill, there are no lengthy lineups, no high-speed hot shots, and no need for crowd control – just that epic interior powder, topped off with personable and friendly service. On the final night, we celebrate family togetherness over a fabulous meal, personally created and served by our eldest son and girlfriend. And though it’s perfectly paired with a fine Okanagan wine, Emily refrains from indulging. “We’d like to give a toast,” Jeff affirms, raising his glass. “Here’s to Big White and big families,” he continues, while smiling at his wife. “And here’s to grandchildren, one which is SL finally on the way.” For IF YOU GO information, visit us online at www.seniorlivingmag.com/ articles/bigwhite

BY PAT NICHOL

PAY IT FORWARD

hen the movie of this title was released, people began to think about how they could be kinder to each other – about doing good deeds that would not be paid back. Since then, it has caught on with many people. I began following the concept several years ago when I was sending a package off to my daughter in Scotland. As I was waiting in line, a young man walked up behind me and said “I’ll pay for that.” First came shock, then amusement, surely he must be joking. But no, he wasn’t, even when I suggested that he come back at a time when the package was not going to cost $35. No, he insisted. I found out he was one of a group of four young men travelling across the country doing good deeds – just because. Since then, it has been quite fun to pay for the coffee of the person behind me in line, help someone who didn’t have quite enough to pay for their grocery order, let someone else in line in front of me as they had fewer items in their basket. It has become a habit, one I am delighted to have attached itself to me. (Probably a healthier habit than most others I have.) I now follow a Facebook page called Paying it Forward. They

Photo: Frances Litman

COURAGEOUS and OUTRAGEOUS

regularly post stories from people who have had acts of kindness done for them by total strangers often resulting in tears of joy and relief. In every case, someone’s life has been touched and they will then go on to touch others in ways they may not have thought of in the past. Recently, I read of someone who, on her birthday, did the number of random acts that matched her years. As I turn 73 this month, I don’t think I have enough hours in the day to complete 73 Random Acts of Kindness. So, I need some help. While I would love to spend a great deal of money helping others, I don’t have large sums waiting to be distributed. So, I need some ideas. What would you do to share an act of kindness that need not be reciprocated, just paid forward? You have approximately one week after this issue comes out as my birthday in on the 11th. I look forward to hearing your ideas. I will report the outcome. SL Pat Nichol is a speaker and published author. Reach her at mpatnichol@gmail.com or visit www.patnichol.com

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Reﬂections THEN & NOW

Changing of the Seasons

birds of all stripes. A short month of shadows and grey skies, but a month bursting with promises of resurrection and newness, of birth and rejoicing. And then spring! Perhaps BY GIPP FORSTER early or perhaps late, it’s unstoppable, alive in its own creation. The odors of a changing earth, the gather- the landscape from brown, green and rust to ing of new buds on barren branches. How pillows of white resting on branches where wonderful is spring? It is a season to be birds preened and sang such a short time ago, loved always. silenced, waiting for winter winds to whine. And then the bravado of summer. Christmas waves from a distance and preBoasting of its prowess as it chases away pares itself to dodge the barbs of the supposed all that is not of its own creation. Often “politically correct” who would like to keep battering the earth with its fists of fire the wrapping and throw away its content. causing the forests and fields to cry out for Squeals of children on hills of snow, redmercy as they long for the skies to flood cheeked and eager for fantasy to tip toe in the earth with its tears and sustenance to and, for a while, borrow their minds to partimes of danger and destruction. Summer take of a magical journey that will carry them comes often without mercy. beyond the stars. Autumn then arrives to sweep away Seasons remind us that all things change the debris and prowl the earth, its mighty – becoming different yet remaining the same winds shaking the trees until their leaves – each demanding an inventory of what will fall off and then scurry across the ground never be again. seeking safety, all the while knowing As winter trumpets its arrival with shivers, there is none. Its roar rattles windows we will collect books to read that time would warning of the cold maker that follows at not allow in the more pleasant months. Now its heels… howling in its tantrum that it they call forth a new vigor to explore their rules, and summer has retreated… no lon- pages and share their adventure. A time to ger the bully it thought itself to be. recollect the tears and laughter that celebratThen, once more, the hearth is aglow. ed our journey from yesterday to today. Snow shovels are liberated, memories The great circle that has no beginning and gathered as snowflakes begin to change no end revolves until time resets its weary head and suggests, perhaps, we are not as important as we may think we are. That change never changes and that tomorrow is simply a reflection of today. Winter allows moments for contemplation. Perhaps not as comfortable as summer, SL but oh, so much wiser. At Revera – Glenwarren Lodge, we pride ourselves on providing Person Centered Glenwarren Sadly, Gipp passed away on April 15, 2013. Lodge Care in our comfortable, home-like, secure environment. He left us with some unpublished writings, so 1230 Balmoral Rd Victoria we are honoring his love of Senior Living and Renovated private accommodations its readers by continuing to publish his work for 250-383-2323 available. Call today for a tour! as long as we can.

Enhancing Lives Every Day

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Photo: Krystle Wiseman

used to love summer – the hot days, the sandy beach and the long hours of daylight. I don’t love it anymore. I like it, but I don’t love it! I used to hate winter with its cold blustery or rainy days. Too few light hours and far too many dark – a time to stay indoors and remember the sun. I don’t hate winter anymore. I’ve learned to appreciate its benefits and its magic. Winter is the owner of many things I do love – a warm blazing fire that coaxes old memories to surface once more. Of “together” times when only the moment made sense. Christmas nestles in winter – a happy colourful time of song and sacred hymns… of wishes and hopes… of goodwill and feeling it is okay to talk to strangers and ask them of their well-being. A time of glancing back over a year… a year of both joy and regrets and wondering why time flies by so quickly and why your children are ever so slowly shedding their innocence to enter into struggle. January and February are often cold and chilly months of snuggling down for a long winter’s nap. Snow to carpet the feet of the season and icy wind that pounds on your windows. And the comfort we have knowing we don’t have to let it in. February whispers of spring – distant and yet close – filled with dreams of outside comfort and the smell of newly mowed grass and the happy singing of

What’s your reason to get your hearing checked today? Staying connected to all the joyful sounds of holiday gatherings, is a great reason to get your hearing checked. At Connect Hearing we’re here to help, no matter what your reason.

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The reasons to come see us are entertaining. VAC, WCB accepted. * Registered under the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC. No fees and no purchase necessary. Complimentary Hearing Screenings are only applicable for customers over 50 years of age. See clinic for details.®CAA and CAA logo trademarks owned by, and use is granted by, the Canadian Automobile Association. ™CAA Rewards is used by the Canadian Automobile Association.

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