Being Well Fall 2015

HELPING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY LIVE LIFE …

WELL

FALL/WINTER 2015 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 4

NO BABY UNHUGGED

The best care for our littlest patients

Radical or risky?

Ontario’s sex-ed curriculum

5 WAYS

to boost your energy

Mike Kitchen

Community, hard work and a love of the game FA L L 2 0 1 5 Publication Number 400363211

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HELPING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY LIVE LIFE …

WELL

fall/winter 2015 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 4

cover story

in every issue 2 Message from Southlake 5 Well Notes Partners in Care 12 Big support for youngest patients: KRG Children’s Charitable Foundation 32 Recipes by Leigh & Meg Cosy up to this comforting soup 36 Behind the Scenes The changing face of medicine: Southlake leads charge in interprofessional collaboration 38 Hospital News 5 years of care close to home: Stronach Regional Cancer Centre 39 Health Care: A look ahead 40 Foundation News Hospice project moving forward

22 HOmeTOWn HerO

41 Community Event Listings

Chicago Blackhawks assistant coach Mike Kitchen on community, hard work and love of the game

42 Last Word Keeping classrooms healthy: Immunization essential part of health for school-aged children

feature stories 6

Risk and resilience Kids need to play outside

20 Healing hounds Therapy dogs at Southlake

10 No baby unhugged Delivering the best care to our littlest patients

26 The Arthritis Program makes goal-setting worthwhile Drive for ‘embracing life’ goes into high gear

14 Radical and irresponsible or sensible and long overdue?

Ontario’s new sexual education curriculum

28 Mind and body A martial arts primer

16 Understanding transgender Respect and acceptance are key to healthier, more inclusive community

30 A fresh take on the kitchen garden Your cold weather gardening fix—online

18 Innovative, preventative care at Southlake You can help fund endovascular aneurysm repair

34 Retirement represents new opportunities Walter Blonski on living life to the fullest 44 5 ways to boost your energy

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MESSAGE from Southlake

neIla poSCente PRESIDENT & CEO SOUTHLAKE REGIONAL HEALTH CENTRE FOUNDATION dr. dave WIllIamS PRESIDENT & CEO SOUTHLAKE REGIONAL HEALTH CENTRE

Few people go to work every day and can say with confidence that the job they do is helping to save lives. It’s a humbling notion and one that all of our volunteers, physicians and staff at Southlake (ourselves included), take on with the greatest respect and responsibility. While we consider ourselves lucky to be able to transform lives in this community, we are equally as fortunate to have a community that generously reflects that same support back to us.

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We are honoured to have had donor after donor step up to invest in the critical priorities of our hospital this year—from diagnostic imaging to our residential hospice to the purchase of equipment for every department across the hospital, your gifts are helping our health care team deliver world-class, specialized care to those who need it most.

Patients like Amtul Hussain, who, in her 70s, found out she required major open-heart surgery to live. With some of her arteries over 90 per cent blocked, Amtul had no other option and relied on Southlake’s expert cardiac care team to ensure she would once again see her children and grandchildren. After a quadruple bypass and recovery in Southlake’s cardiovascular intensive care unit, Amtul is back home and back to being the centre of her busy family. This couldn’t have happened without our dedicated physicians and staff and the countless pieces of equipment they used to care for Amtul, many of which were purchased through donations from people like you.

Stories like Amtul’s are what inspire us to keep going, even in the face of adversity. This year hasn’t been without its difficulties, but from those challenges have come an opportunity for everyone at Southlake and Southlake Foundation to communicate more openly, to work together more collaboratively and, above all else, to continue to put the needs of this community and our patients first. As responsible stewards of the gifts you entrust to us, we are renewed in our commitment to ensure that our two organizations are working “shoulder to shoulder” and that together, with your support, we continue to innovate, expand, upgrade, push the envelope and “give a damn”—all with the ultimate goal of transforming the lives of you and your loved ones.

With this renewed focus, we enter the autumn and winter months with clearly defined priorities for our hospital. Our patients are counting on your support in the following areas:

BEDS Beds are the single most overlooked piece of equipment across our hospital. From a trauma patient in the ER to an elderly and immobile patient on a continuing care floor, beds are the building blocks of care that ensure safety, comfort and well-being. But our beds are aging at Southlake. Across the hospital, in every department, our staff struggles to make sure every bed provides each patient with the comfort and support they need.

With the donations of generous members of the community, like you, Southlake will replace nearly every bed in the hospital over the next three years (350 in total). New beds, ranging from sophisticated critical care models to basic ward models, offer both increased comfort to our patients and several new upgrades (like patient lift systems, specialized mattresses and infection control improvements) will keep both patients and staff safe.

hOSPITAL-WIDE EQUIPMENT From our operating rooms to our paediatric department to diagnostics to neonatal care, our clinicians rely on specialized equipment to better diagnose and treat our patients.

Many people do not know this, but hospitals rely solely on community donations to purchase new or replacement equipment (outside of capital builds).

Southlake is home to some of the best and brightest health care providers in the country.

We’ve achieved world firsts on the international stage of medicine and every day we transform the lives of so many in York Region and surrounding communities. But our help is nothing without YOUR help. Your donations allow Southlake to maintain this world-class standard of care, to keep vulnerable people close to home and to make sure that all our loved ones get the care they need, when they need it. For that, we are truly grateful.

To donate toward beds or hospital-wide equipment upgrades that will help transform lives in our community, visit southlakefoundation.ca or call 905-836-7333.

Your stories make us who we are. if you would like to share a story of how southlake transformed your life, please contact Dionne malcolm at dmalcolm@southlakeregional.org or 905-836-7333.

essenTial souTHlake conTacT inFoRMaTion All hospital enquiries: 905-895-4521 Volunteering at Southlake: 905-895-4521, ext. 2104 volunteers@southlakeregional.org Careers at Southlake: 905-895-4521, ext. 2535 careers@southlakeregional.org To give us feedback on the care received: Patient Relations Office 905-895-4521, ext. 2290 For information on making a donation: Visit southlakefoundation.ca or contact the Southlake Foundation at 905-836-7333, 1-877-457-2036 or Southlake Regional Health Centre Foundation Medical Arts Building 102-581 Davis Dr. Newmarket, ON L3Y 2P6

need a FaMilY docToR? For a current list of physicians taking new patients: • Visit southlakeregional.org and click on “Healthcare Professionals” or call Southlake at 905-895-4521, ext. 6913; or • Visit Healthcare Connect at ontario.ca/healthcareconnect or call 1-800-445-1822.

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Beingwell is published four times a year by York Region Media Group, a division of Metroland Media Group Ltd., in partnership with Southlake Regional Health Centre Foundation.

Copyright 2015. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher.

Publication Number 40036321 The material in this publication is intended for general information purposes only and, while every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the material, it does not constitute advice or carry the specific endorsement of either York Region Media Group or Southlake Regional Health Centre/Southlake Regional Health Centre Foundation. Readers are encouraged to consult their doctor to discuss their health concerns.

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: beingwell 580B Steven Court, PO Box 236 Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 4X1 905-853-8888 beingwell@yrmg.com

well NOTES

B Y L ee ann W aterman lwaterman @ yrmg . com

I was lucky enough to grow up on a rural property in Muskoka. My parents’ 3-1/2-hectare, largely forested property ran alongside a small river and included several rocky hills. My siblings and I (all five of us) spent much of our childhood exploring that land and beyond.

We jumped from rock to rock or waded through rapids, water tugging at our legs, across the river to the opposite shore. We met our neighbours at the big rock on top of the hill for games of hide and seek. We built tree forts and snow forts. We rode our bikes to the lake to swim in the summer and skied across the ice in the winter.

When we were young, we usually travelled in pairs or larger groups, meaning there was someone to run for help if needed. Like the time I broke a bone in my hand when I hit a fence on my bike; my sister, who had been following on foot, jumped on the bike and headed for home while I trailed behind cradling my hand. And water access was only granted after a few summers of swimming lessons— although I doubt my parents would have endorsed a decision to go for a swim on a particularly warm (at least to an 11-year-old’s way of thinking) early April day.

When Participaction, a national non-profit organization that helps Canadians sit less and move more, released its annual report card this spring, it gave youth in Canada a D- in physical activity. Only 9 per cent of children aged five to 17 get the recommended 60 minutes of heartpumping activity every day. The report card specifically highlighted the need to increase children’s opportunities for self-directed play outdoors.

While my childhood was pretty typical of its time and place, it certainly isn’t the norm for children growing up in our communities today. The experts we spoke to for our article on risky play and building resilience reminded me what I gained from that childhood—a willingness to take considered risks, a strong sense of independence, an appreciation of physical activity, a love for the outdoors— and some great memories. The article explores the importance of free play outdoors for children’s physical health and overall growth and development—and offers some suggestions of local spots to take your kids to get active in nature.

This issue of beingwell also includes an interview with hometown hero Mike Kitchen, a former NHL-er and assistant coach of the Chicago Blackhawks, a team he helped take to two Stanley Cup titles in the past three years. Mr. Kitchen shares some memories from his early days in hockey, his thoughts on coaching and his formula for winning: hard work, a commitment to health and physical fitness and a little luck.

New contributors Meg Wismer and Leigh Combrink share a recipe for a spicy tomato and sweet potato soup— perfect for cool fall days.

And we bring you the latest news from Southlake Regional Health Centre—including a look at its awardwinning approach to interprofessional care and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit’s Baby Hugger Program, which ensures the hospital’s littlest patients get all the cuddles they need to thrive.

I hope you enjoy this issue. We welcome your feedback at beingwell@yrmg.com.

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Risk and resilience Kids need to play outside by lee A nn W aterman

It’s a long weekend and we’re camping with friends at a provincial park. While the adults are setting up the tents, their nine-year-old son checks in with his mom that their walkietalkies are on the same channel then hops on his bike for a tour around the grounds. He’s back an hour or so later, looking noticeably dirtier and eager to share stories of what he’d 6

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discovered with two other boys he met along the way.

Free play, particularly outdoors, is important for a child’s physical health and mental and emotional development, says Dr. Charmaine van Schaik, Chief of Paediatrics at Southlake Regional Health Centre.

Running, jumping and climbing helps

children build strong bones and muscles and maintain a healthy weight, and lowers the risk of developing chronic disease such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Self-directed activity encourages decision-making and creativity and can boost confidence and resilience.

“Kids need to have daily challenges to learn,

JIM CRAIGMYLE PHOTOGRAPH Sage, 7, teStS hIS ClImbIng SKIllS at the dISCovery play garden at SCanlon CreeK ConServatIon area In bradford

develop and grow,” says Dr. van Schaik. “Not all of their decisions will be perfect, but the road to successful growth and more successful decisions is through trial and error.”

But what the doctor and other experts know—and have been telling parents—does not seem to be sinking in.

When Participaction, a national non-profit

gO naTural

organization that helps Canadians sit less and move more, released its annual report card this spring, it gave youth in Canada a D- in physical activity. Only 9 per cent of children aged five to 17 get the recommended 60 minutes of heart-pumping activity every day.

The report card specifically highlighted the need to increase children’s opportunities for self-directed play outdoors in all settings—at home and school, in the community and nature.

“We’re sacrificing long-term health for short-term risk reduction,” says Allana LeBlanc, an exercise physiologist and population health expert who works with Participaction. Maybe your child won’t suffer the scraped knee after a tumble on uneven ground or a broken arm from a fall from a tree. But sedentary children often grow up to be sedentary adults with chronic health issues such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.

The effects can be even more immediate and include unhealthy weight, reduced attention, lower self-esteem and increased aggression.

“When we keep kids inside, they’re closer to screens, they’re closer to the cookie jar. So is keeping kids inside really safer?” Ms LeBlanc asks.

It may be useful for parents to make a distinction between danger and risk, she says.

She’s not suggesting sending your preschooler to the park alone or letting kids skate on a half-frozen pond, but allowing them to do things they find exciting like exploring the woods, wandering in their neighbourhood or rough-housing with their friends.

If play is too structured or limiting, kids lose interest, Ms LeBlanc says. “Kids get bored because there is no thrill, no excitement.”

Dr. van Schaik suggests parents can find ways to balance risky play and safety. Get the right equipment—a helmet for biking, wrist guards for skateboarding, life-jacket in the canoe, etc. >>

Sending your kids out to play in nature is one of the best things you can do for their healthy development, says Allana LeBlanc exercise physiologist and population health specialist with Participaction.

Let them play in the dirt, pick up sticks, climb over rocks and climb up trees.

Let them use their muscles and their imagination.

Studies have shown that playing outside versus inside increases a child’s activity level by 20 per cent and unstructured play versus structured play can offer the same boost.

Here are a few local spots where your kids can connect with nature and explore: SCANLON CREEK CONSERVATION AREA, BRADFORD WEST GWILLIMBURY In addition to trails for biking and walking, Scanlon Creek features a children’s discovery play garden, which is designed to get kids exploring, jumping, climbing, being creative, interacting with others, making music and just having fun, while learning about nature.

For more information, visit lsrca.on.ca/ conservation_areas.

SHEPPARD’S BUSH, AURORA Trails in this popular conservation area go through mature pine plantations, mixed forest, an old sugar bush and a ravine along the East Holland River.

The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority offers a summer camp at the site where kids can explore fields, forests and ponds with environmental educators.

For more information, visit lsrca.on.ca/ conservation_areas.

YORK REGIONAL FOREST Open 365 days a year with no cost to use, the York Regional Forest’s 2,300 hectares of protected land on 18 properties across the region provide ample opportunities for families to walk, run, bike, snowshoe or ski in a natural environment.

For more information, visit york.ca.

FAIRY LAKE, NEWMARKET Centred around a man-made lake, this 13.4 hectares of parkland, waterways and marshland features playgrounds, walking trails and open spaces.

For more information, visit newmarket.ca.

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And set reasonable limits depending on your child’s age and maturity and your own comfort level: You can go with your brother to the park around the corner, but not the one across town. You can ride your bike to your friend’s house, but call when you get there. Or for younger children, it might be watching them play from the distance of a park bench or kitchen window.

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encouraging and allowing outdoor free play in their neighbourhood.

“There’s safety in numbers,” Ms LeBlanc says. “If one parent lets their kid go to the park to play and a second parent lets their kid go to the park to play, that park becomes a place where lots of kids play.”

And those kids get a head start on their way to becoming active, creative, healthy individuals.

Find this and our other magazine editions online at

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nO BaBY unhugged Delivering the best care to our littlest patients

BY CHRISTINE MORRISON

It’s a testament to the power of touch and an incredible example of a health care facility providing more than just medical care.

Over the last couple of years, an amazing program has been growing within the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Southlake Regional Health Centre.

Guided by the caring hands of the interprofessional NICU team and led by nurse educator Sandra Payne, Southlake’s Volunteer Cuddler Program has not only flourished but 10

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was the blueprint for Huggies’ “No Baby Unhugged” initiative.

“I’m always so amazed that something that started out as, ‘Hey, can you hold this baby’ has turned into something really powerful,” says Ms Payne of the program, which offers a simple solution to an often complicated problem.

Skin-to-skin contact after birth has been shown to help stabilize respiratory rate, body temperature and blood glucose levels in

newborns. That’s why, whenever possible, babies born at Southlake are immediately placed skin to skin with a parent.

“The power of touch is incredible,” Ms Payne says.

Many premature babies born at Southlake are required to stay in the NICU, even after mom has been discharged from hospital.

That was certainly true for Jennifer Delic, mother to Jade Delic, born one month prematurely and weighing just three pounds

13 ounces. “When I was discharged and Jade had to stay there, that was really hard,” says Ms Delic.

Jade spent two weeks in the NICU with her parents juggling time between their two older daughters at home and Jade at the hospital.

“The car rides for me back and forth to the hospital were really hard. I constantly felt torn between not wanting to leave Jade and not wanting to leave my girls at home,” continues Ms Delic.

The Delics’ story is not unique. Families often struggle to find balance between providing the skin-to-skin time their babies need in the NICU and meeting the demands of their lives outside the hospital.

While there is no substitute for the care of a parent, it is not always feasible for parents to be with their babies in the NICU all the time.

Southlake’s Cuddler Program, one of only a few in Canada, aims to support parents in meeting their babies’ needs during their NICU stay.

“Our experience with the NICU and the cuddler volunteers could not have gone any better…the support and love they showed us made such a difference and made a very difficult situation a whole lot easier on us,” says Ms Delic.

“The NICU can be an overwhelming place, sometimes parents just need a break to have a shower or to sleep,” Ms Payne says. The NICU team works closely with families to help ease what can be a difficult period.

“The nurses were just awesome in including our girls,” says Ms Delic. “Whether holding her [Jade], changing diapers, getting her bottle.

They even put together an egg scavenger hunt for Easter while we were there with Jade. They created memories for our whole family that we’ll never forget.”

When Ms Payne joined Southlake in the summer of 2012, NICU nurses were not only fulfilling their duties as nurses, but also as stand-in cuddlers.

Often, they turned to Ms Payne for help. “It got to the point where I was pretty much always holding a baby while working on my computer,” she says. “As a nurse, it’s heartbreaking when you have to put down a baby that just needs a cuddle. We see first-hand the importance of touch, but we weren’t always able to meet the needs of the babies we care for because the higher acuity babies demanded even more of our attention.”

Today, the solution to all these babies needing cuddles and families requiring additional support seems so simple: Why not have a volunteer in the NICU dedicated to cuddling babies?

Ms Payne worked closely with volunteers to ensure the program would be a success.

Volunteers working as part of Southlake’s Cuddler Program must be comfortable introducing themselves to families, able to pick up infants hooked up to IVs and willing to sit calmly and hold a baby for an extended period of time.

Developing the guidelines and criteria for the program came naturally, she says. “I put on my nurse’s hat to determine what a volunteer could safely do and I put on my mommy hat to determine what level of volunteer involvement would be comfortable for the families.”

Volunteers receive training on how to interact with families, common conditions and signs and symptoms of distress to watch for in the babies they help care for.

“It was very important to build a rapport between the volunteers and the NICU nurses.

We have been lucky to have a truly amazing group of volunteers.”

In speaking about her NICU experience, Ms Delic said the team, including the volunteers, kept them up to date on Jade’s progress and answered every single question they had.

“It helped so much to know that there were people who were loving her and caring for her when we couldn’t,” she says.

aTTracTing naTiOnal aTTenTiOn Southlake’s Cuddler Program was already quite robust, having expanded into the paediatric unit, by the time nurse educator Sandra Payne received an email from the Canadian Association of Paediatric Health Centres (CAPHC) asking member hospitals if they had a program where volunteers held babies.

“I filled out the survey and didn’t think much of it,” she says. “I couldn’t believe it when I got a call from the CAPHC saying they had a company interested in learning more about our program.”

While Huggies’ involvement has done a lot for the program in terms of raising awareness, community support remains a driving force behind the program.

“Our community is incredible; we often have kids donating toys from birthday parties. Volunteers giving their time and members of the community donate hats and blankets for the babies (in addition to gifts made through the Foundation that purchase critical equipment for the program,” says Ms Payne.

“Working with the families involved in the Cuddler Program and teaching them about the importance of skin-to-skin care has been really meaningful. I am so proud to have touched the lives of so many families in our community in such a positive way.”

The level 2B nicu at southlake regional Health centre has 12 beds, with a maximum surge capacity of 16, and cares for babies born on or after 32 weeks of gestation. approximately 500 babies are cared for in the nicu each year. it is the generosity of the community that provides southlake’s highly skilled team of interprofessional health care providers with the tools and equipment they need to care for our smallest patients.

You can donate to southlake’s maternal child program today at southlakefoundation.ca.

neWborn tWIn boyS are held by theIr mother WhIle StayIng In the nICu at SouthlaKe.

interested in volunteering? fill out an application form today at southlakeregional.org.

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partners

IN cARE

Big SuppOrT FOr YOungeST paTienTS KRG Children’s Charitable Foundation funds specialized technology B Y C AT H Y H I L L A R D

Though their big personalities can be deceiving, children (physiologically speaking) are not just “little adults”. Their bodies and systems have their own complexities and treating them often requires specialized equipment built just for children.

That’s why KRG Children’s Charitable Foundation (KRGCCF) decided to partner with Southlake’s Paediatric Department to provide new state-of-the-art paediatric scopes.

“Having these scopes donated helps the department tremendously, and will impact so many children’s lives,” says Dr. Charmaine van Schaik, Chief of Paediatrics at Southlake.

“These scopes bring a new level of technology that will ultimately mean faster diagnosis and treatment for our young patients and we are so grateful for KRGCCF’s gift of two colonoscopes and one gastroscope.”

The new technology provides a much higher resolution image than the older scopes that they replace, allowing for a more accurate 12

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diagnosis by providers. Paediatric scopes are smaller and finer-tubed. They are also more comfortable and manoeuvrable for our smaller patients. They help to diagnose and treat a range of diseases such as Crohn’s, celiac disease and ulcerative colitis.

Paediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Karen Liquornik sees about 700 children at her clinic at Southlake each year, about a third of which require scoping. She says the scopes are essential for her work and that she is very grateful to have access to this new equipment.

“These scopes play such an integral role in diagnosis. We can’t move forward with treatment until we know what the problem is and this equipment allows us to do that so much easier. Having faster and more accurate diagnosis also means that we’re able to get worried families answers and a treatment plan faster, and that’s invaluable to parents,” she says.

“Southlake’s need for scopes was a perfect

partnership for our foundation,” says Susan Zikman-Wise, Director of Communications for KRGCCF. Southlake, being a regional care centre, helps thousands of young children annually, and that this donation will ‘make the world a better place’ for these children.”

The KRG Children’s Charitable Foundation gives to a broad range of initiatives from technology, to art, from equipment to ground breaking research initiatives – wherever they feel that they can make a tangible impact in the lives of children, families and staff.

“We are so proud to partner with Southlake and be a part of their world-class paediatric care.”

if you would like to donate to support the purchase of paediatric equipment at southlake, visit southlake foundation’s website, southlakefoundation.ca.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING US RAISE $217,000 NET IN SUPPORT OF SOUTHLAKE! TITLE SPONSOR:

PRESENTING SPONSORS:

EAGLE:

BIRDIE:

PAR:

GOLFER GIFT:

Grace Feng

Robin & Barbara Beamish and Friends

FOURSOME: Smith Rogers Financial, DASAKA, W.T. Hawkins Cheezies, Jim Alexander, Brenner Construction, Diamond in the Ruff

A special thank you to our 2015 Southlake Golf Tournament Committee: Mike Smith (Co-Chair), Dan Coldwell (Co-Chair), Ted Chant, Robert Crowder, Iain Clinton, Anne-Marie Million, Bo Mocherniak, Rick Spence, Neil Stratton

southlakefoundation.ca FA L L 2 0 1 5

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Sexual Education Radical and Irresponsible or Sensible and long overdue?

The controversy over Ontario’s new sexual education curriculum

by S heena C ampbell

Since the provincial government announced in early 2015 that it was ready to release the updated Ontario Health and Physical Education (H&PE) curriculum, parents across the province have been divided in opinion—some incredibly supportive of the update, some up in arms.

In the months following, demonstrations were held on the steps of the legislature in Toronto, grassroots parent organizations took to social media to mobilize concerned citizens and thousands of students in the 14

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GTA were kept out of school in opposition of the new sexual health curriculum. In York Region, a number of parent groups held rallies outside of the constituency offices of local MPPs Helena Jaczek and Michael Chan.

So what are the concerns of those parents who are not supportive of the updated content? Some parents have complained they were not adequately consulted on the new curriculum. Others have expressed that much of the new curriculum is not age-

appropriate, citing examples such as teaching Grade 1 students the proper names for body parts or the option to begin discussing masturbation in Grade 6. Still others say that certain topics of discussion do not align with their family or cultural values.

Alick Siu is the co-chair of the York Region Parents Association (YRPA). He says that for many parents he has heard from, they find most of the content is acceptable, but a few topics are concerning in a region as diverse as York.

“A lot of parents feel the content is excessive. Some feel it’s not age appropriate, that some of the conversations, for example around the different types of sexual orientations, have left out key information,” Mr. Siu says.

Whether or not they agree on what it should look like, most seem to agree that a new curriculum is sorely needed. The curriculum that teachers in Ontario have been using up until now dates back 17 years to 1998. It was previously updated in 2007— with input from experts, students, teachers, parents and other stakeholders—however, the government chose not to release it.

Instead, the Ministry of Education undertook a lengthy additional consultation process, which included surveying 4,000 individual parents and consulting with a number of parent groups. The result is new curriculum that experts say is research-based and vastly more relevant in today’s world of sexting and cyber-bullying.

That makes sense to some parents, like Aurora’s Lora Georgiou. She wants her children to be informed when it’s time to make decisions about their health and feels that the updated curriculum is long overdue given the reality of growing up in today’s online environment.

“The Internet and cellphones expose our children to a lot more than we know,” Ms Georgiou says. “Sexting just didn’t exist when I was growing up.”

Along with online safety, the wide range of topics in the new curriculum includes healthy relationships, consent, mental health and gender identity.

Chris Markham is the executive director and chief executive officer of Ophea, a notfor-profit organization that champions healthy, active living in schools and acts as an advisory group to the Ministry of Education on physical and health curriculum.

Ophea has long advocated for the release

more information about the new Health and physical education curriculum is available on the ministry of education website (edu. gov.on.ca), including an informative parents’ guide.

of updated curriculum, amassing support from a wide range of health promotion and education organizations, public health units, community health agencies, educators and so on. According to Ophea, schools provide a safe environment to learn about relationships and sexual education.

“The 2015 Health and Physical Education curriculum stands to be the single largest health promotion mechanism this province has ever seen,” Mr. Markham says. “Teaching our students to better understand and make informed decisions about their own health in a way that makes sense in today’s reality is critical to having healthy, happy kids.”

Despite the government’s attempts to engage and consult on the new curriculum, many parents are saying their concerns are not being heard. In April, the YRPA held a public forum on the new curriculum, with a panel that included sexual health educators, religious and ethnic leaders, parents and parent advocates and former school board trustees. Mr. Siu said the Markham event provided a venue for further dialogue and information sharing on both sides.

The YRPA taped the forum and posted the videos to YouTube. A summary of the ideas and feedback that was discussed at the event is being prepared and the YRPA plans to share that information with the Ministry of Education in the fall.

One option discussed is to have public health units’ nurse educators provide guidance and instruction for parents in teaching sexual health education at home, something many religious organizations are already doing.

“The idea is that we support parents to be their child’s first educator and equip them to undertake sexual health discussions in alignment with their values and beliefs,” Mr. Siu says, noting that for many, non-secular public health units are ideal to deliver this kind of education.

Despite any controversy that remains, the provincial government was clear it will not back down on seeing the curriculum implemented at Ontario schools this school year. In the legislature in February, Premier Kathleen Wynne said the updated sex education curriculum “is going to protect children in this province, in every one of our publicly funded schools in Ontario” and

called it simply “the right thing to do.”

Information for parents on both the York Region District School Board and the York Region Catholic District School Board websites indicate the curriculum will be introduced to students as planned. Both school board websites offer a long list of resources, links, FAQs and guides, in a variety of languages, to inform and support parents.

—with files from Teresa Latchford, yorkregion.com

What’s in the new curriculum?

Although many parents oppose Ontario’s new Health and Physical Education (H&PE) curriculum, others say their fears are based on misunderstanding. For example, many of the terms and concepts for the various grade levels are not required components and teachers have some freedom in how they frame discussions.

Here are some of the broad strokes of what’s in the updated curriculum. Visit the Ministry of Education website (edu. gov.on.ca) to read about the new curriculum in more detail.

• Students will learn the proper names for body parts in Grade 1.

• In Grade 2, students will learn about consent, stages of human development and the harm of calling others names (in person or online).

• Discussions about gender identity may be introduced in Grade 3.

• Instruction about puberty will be delivered in Grade 4 • Intercourse is a topic for the Grade 5 level.

• Masturbation and “gender expression” will be introduced in Grade 6.

• Concepts in Grades 7 and 8 include types of sex, contraception and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections.

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understanding transgender Respect and acceptance are key to healthier, more inclusive community

BY SHEENA CAMPBELL

If someone you love said they were transgender, how would you feel? What would you say? Would you even know what that meant?

Although it’s reported that there are about 53,000 transgendered adults in Ontario, and despite recent media attention on transgendered individuals such as reality 16

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star Caitlyn Jenner and mixed martial arts fighter Fallon Fox, many people are still unfamiliar with the trans community’s unique challenges, concerns and needs.

Haran Vijayanthan is the project administrator for My House Rainbow Resources of York Region, an organization that provides support, resources and social

opportunities for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (LGBTQ) community. He says there is no simple answer to the question: What is transgender?

“Being transgendered is certainly not new.

But more people are now identifying themselves as part of the transgender

community,” says Mr. Vijayanthan. “And it means different things to different people.

It’s complicated and very individual.”

Essentially, Mr. Vijayanthan explains, transgendered people are not comfortable with the body they were born in. As a result, they may choose to express themselves in ways more closely associated with the opposite gender or make physical changes that will bring them closer to being the person they feel they are on the inside. This can range from a man who cross-dresses or a woman who asks to be addressed by the male pronoun to a person who undergoes sexual reassignment surgery.

Mr. Vijayanthan points out that while the terms “transsexual” and “transgender” are often used fluidly, being trans is about gender rather than sexual orientation and people in the trans community can be either heterosexual or homosexual.

A lack of understanding about what it means to be transgendered—in the medical establishment, the community at large and even within the LGBTQ community—is one of the issues the trans community faces and is a major contributor to stigma, prejudice and discrimination. For transgendered individuals, the consequences to their physical and mental health can be devastating, particularly if they avoid seeking appropriate health care or support because they fear being treated with disrespect or even harassed and bullied.

According to Rainbow Health Ontario, a provincewide program working to improve access to services and promote the health of LGBTQ communities, studies have shown that a large portion of trans people in Ontario have symptoms of depression and had thoughts of, or had attempted, suicide.

Trans youth aged 16 to 24 were considered particularly vulnerable.

Similarly, a study out of the University of Western Ontario, published in BMC Public Health in June 2015 found that in the past year, 35 per cent of the 433 transgendered people surveyed had seriously considered suicide and 11 per cent had attempted it.

According to the researchers, three major factors that brought the risks down were social support (especially from parents), reduced transphobia and being able to obtain personal identification with the appropriate gender designation.

These findings highlight the importance of increased understanding and equitable treatment of transgendered individuals. And fortunately, Canada is moving forward. Pride events are common across the country

(including York Region’s Pride Week Festival, staged each June and considered one of the largest regional pride events in Canada) and changes to our laws are more reflective of our diversity and responsibility to ensure everyone’s rights are protected.

My House, Rainbow Health Ontario and many other organizations offer information and education to individuals and groups that want to learn more about transgender issues in order to increase their capacity to provide person-centred, appropriate services.

Support groups for individuals and families, age-appropriate counselling, diversity programs and safe spaces for socializing and recreation are increasingly available to members of the trans community, for example through local school boards and organizations like Family Services of York Region. The latter has a comprehensive range of services for all members of the LGBTQ community and is the lead agency for the York Rainbow Network and York Rainbow Information Referral and Support Line at 1-888-York-LGBT (1-888-967-5542).

Mr. Vijayanthan says that for anyone who wants to be more inclusive of the trans community and help create a more engaged and healthier community in the process, simple respect and acceptance are the place to start.

“By not judging, being sensitive and treating everyone with respect, we can create a more inclusive environment where people in the trans community feel more comfortable in who they are and in going out and getting the supports they need,” says Mr. Vijayanthan.

“In doing so, we will be encouraging people to be active contributors to society rather than struggle with their issues in silence.”

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innOVaTiVe, preVenTaTiVe Care aT SOuThLaKe

dr. alan loSSIng, dIvISIon head of vaSCular Surgery at SouthlaKe

You can help fund endovascular aneurysm repair

BY CHRISTINE MORRISON

In 2014, Southlake Regional Health Centre began a pilot project to provide the cuttingedge, minimally invasive endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) surgery to treat a serious condition called abdominal aortic aneurysm.

To date, through community donations, 17 patients have received the lifesaving procedure at Southlake — without which they would have been at serious risk of death.

A hereditary condition, an aortic aneurysm develops in the abdomen just below the kidneys.

Although the chance of developing this condition increases with age, it has been known to affect people as young as 50.

“Southlake is unique in its capacity to perform the EVAR procedure,” says Dr. Alan Lossing, Division Head of Vascular Surgery. “There is no other hospital within our LHIN [Local Health Integration Network] with the expertise to perform this surgery.

“EVAR is allowing us to treat patients who were traditionally turned down for surgery due to age or heart and lung problems.”

Not only does having this procedure at 18

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Southlake open up access for patients who may not have qualified for traditional surgery, but the procedure is done to prevent a future rupture of an aortic aneurysm. For patients who experience a rupture, 75 per cent are fatal, but when EVAR is performed, that risk drops to just 2 per cent.

In order to make EVAR a permanent treatment option for patients, Southlake must raise $200,000 to fund an additional 24 surgeries over the next year, demonstrating the need for the program and success of its patients.

Most people are likely not familiar with abdominal aortic aneurysms; in fact, many people afflicted with this condition are unaware they have it. Dr. Lossing estimates that in roughly 90 per cent of the patients he sees with an abdominal aortic aneurysm, the aneurysm was diagnosed as a result of some other pain or discomfort.

“Sometimes patients will come in with back or stomach pain and diagnostic imaging will reveal an aneurysm,” Dr. Lossing says.

Unfortunately, in most cases, the aneurysms

are asymptomatic until they rupture.

EVAR is an innovative preventative procedure in which surgeons place a tiny tube or stent into the artery at the aneurysm site through two small incisions in the groin. The stent helps to reinforce the artery walls, reducing the likelihood of a rupture.

With our population aging and a growing number of local residents suffering from various chronic conditions, more and more patients will be candidates for the EVAR procedure.

As with other minimally invasive surgical techniques, patients who have undergone the EVAR procedure have a faster recovery time and experience less pain and discomfort after surgery.

Dr. Lossing has seen the benefits to patients first hand.

“I had one 86-year-old patient undergo the EVAR procedure and I was concerned that there had been a complication when the nurses were frantically trying to get hold of me the following morning. Turns out he was fine; in fact, he was up making his bed. Something his

“EVAR is far less disruptive to the body. There is reduced impact on the heart and lungs in patients when this technique is used.”

DR. ALAN LOSSING

wife said he did every day at home.”

Hospital stays following the EVAR procedure are generally just one to two days, compared to five to seven days after traditional openabdominal surgeries.

“EVAR is far less disruptive to the body,” says Dr. Lossing. “There is a reduced impact on the heart and lungs in patients when this technique is used. In traditional open-abdominal surgery, surgeons have to clamp the aorta and cut off blood flow.”

The EVAR program represents a huge advancement in Southlake’s ability to provide the community with the health care services it needs and proactively address health problems in patients that were traditionally not good candidates for treatment.

“We are seeing more abdominal aortic aneurysms because the population is aging and there is more proactive screening for this condition,” Dr. Lossing says. “EVAR is helping

INTRODUCING

us reduce the number of emergencies we see, by preventing ruptures.”

Community support has been crucial in setting the stage for some of Southlake’s most innovative and pioneering technological and surgical advancements. The 17 communityfunded EVAR procedures performed in 2014 demonstrate the significant need for this ground-breaking procedure.

With the support of our generous donors, Southlake will be able to perform an additional 24 procedures, demonstrating the success of the program in our community.

Want to help fund evar? You can make a donation today at southlakefoundation.ca. choose the “Other” section under “i would like to designate my gift” and write “evar” to ensure your gift is designated properly.

about abdominal aortic aneurysms The aorta is the major blood vessel, the width of a garden hose, that supplies blood throughout the body.

An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a thickening of the aorta in the abdomen just below the kidneys.

Although most commonly found in patients over 65 years of age, abdominal aortic aneurysms have been known to occur in individuals as young as 50.

The condition is estimated to affect up to 6 per cent of males over the age of 64; rates in women are lower and the aneurysms tend to develop about 10 years later.

Risk factors include age, sex, smoking and family history.

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19

Healing Hounds Therapy dogs at Southlake

BY JOANN MACDONALD

The powerful bond between human and dog is nowhere more evident than in the halls of Southlake, where volunteers with the St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program deliver joy, unconditional love and companionship to patients, visitors and staff each week.

Judy Doyle has been bringing her dogs Loki, 9, and Cara, 12, to the hospital for close to 10 years. A mother and daughter duo of golden retrievers, Cara and Loki provide patients with stress relief, distraction from pain and social engagement.

Ms Doyle has witnessed many powerful moments over the past decade. She recalls one especially meaningful day when a palliative patient’s family member asked if she and Cara could stop in to visit. “He said, ‘He’s not really with us. He hasn’t spoken in a week, but he has always loved dogs.’” Ms Doyle placed Cara’s front paws on the bed and a family member placed the patient’s hand over one paw. “He smiled and said, ‘Dog,’” Ms Doyle recalls. “We were all in tears.

I think that was one of the most touching moments.”

The St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program began as a pilot program in Peterborough in 1992. Today, nearly 3,000 therapy dog teams help thousands of people each year at hospitals, seniors residences and universities.

Potential therapy dogs undergo testing to ensure they are not aggressive with people, other dogs or food. Dog and owner are tested as a team to determine if handlers have the ability to maintain control of their dog. Ms Doyle now evaluates other dog and owner duos for the program.

“Being able to read the body language of dogs is so important,” she says. “We also want to know that the dog is enjoying the visit and that they can handle the activity that goes on in a hospital or nursing home.” Dogs are tested for tolerance of sounds and groups of people to assess their readiness for the busy hospital environment.

Lisa Corradetti, therapeutic recreation specialist and staff liaison for volunteers in the mental health department, notes that Southlake was one of the first hospitals to use 20

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“The dogs are so intuitive.

They just seem to know what people need.”

LISA CORRADETTI, THERAPEUTIC RECREATION SPECIALIST AND STAFF VOLUNTEER LIAISON, MENTAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT, SOUTHLAKE

pet therapy in support of patient care. Now in her 26th year at the hospital, Ms Corradetti had seen the benefits of pet therapy while working in Southlake’s long-term care area.

Once she transitioned to working full-time in mental health two decades ago, she worked to bring pet therapy there.

“It enhances lives in so many ways I don’t think people even realize,” says Ms Corradetti.

“It opens up lines of communication because then patients can talk about things they can relate to. For people who feel that hopelessness and a lack of purpose, it helps them to find that.”

Ms Corradetti has seen therapy dogs inspire breakthrough moments in patients.

“Introducing a pet into their world brings some humanity in terms of normalization,” she says. “Sometimes patients are oppositional and won’t take medications. We bring in a dog and all of a sudden they put their hand on the dog and they cooperate.”

Ms Doyle has seen the calming effects her dogs have on patients who are angry or upset.

“All of a sudden they calm down and they start talking to the dog,” she says. “It’s amazing the difference this animal makes just with its presence.”

In a busy hospital environment, volunteers are sensitive to the needs of patients and staff.

Ms Doyle notes that she asks first before entering a room in case somebody has allergies or a fear of dogs. She will often stay in a common room so that visitors may come and go as they wish.

“People miss their pets,” she says. “They get to talk a bit about their pet and see the dog for a little bit. It has a huge therapeutic benefit. You see the stress on people’s faces and then they see the dog and all of a sudden they smile and it’s like the weight of the world is lifted off their shoulders.”

Over the years, the hospital has had a range of visiting therapy dogs, from a five-pound dog to a large St. Bernard. “We’ve had every breed imaginable,” says Ms Doyle.

“Deerhound, rottweiler, German shepherd.

It’s all about temperament.”

Ms Corradetti says she can’t say enough good things about the dogs and their owners.

“Sometimes the volunteers know the unit is chaotic that day and they just park it somewhere,” she says. “The dogs are so intuitive. They just seem to know what the patients need. The patients will get down on the floor and pet the dog. To me, if that’s what the patient needs, we try to meet them in that moment. The volunteers are very good at gauging that.”

The doctors and staff benefit from the pet therapy just as much as the patients, Ms Corradetti believes. “We have the best volunteers. They are always paying it forward.

They are all gems in this treasure chest.”

are you interested in enrolling your furry friend into the therapy dog program? find out more information on the st. john’s ambulance website at sja.ca.

JIM CRAIGMYLE PHOTOGRAPH

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Judy Doyle and LOKI, a nine-year-old golden retriever, have been volunteering at Southlake for many years.

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cover STORY

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hOMeTOwn

herO

Chicago Blackhawks assistant coach Mike Kitchen on community, hard work and love of the game B Y L E E A N N W AT E R M A N PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM CRAIGMYLE

Hard work. A commitment to health and physical ďŹ tness. And a little luck. Those are what make a winning team, says Mike Kitchen, NHLer and current assistant coach of the Chicago Blackhawks, a team he helped take to two Stanley Cup titles in the past three years.

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23

Born in Newmarket, at what is now Southlake Regional Health Centre, Mr. Kitchen grew up in Schomberg, Ont. Like most boys living in the town of 800 in the 1960s, he played hockey.

He recalls a group of talented players who won several provincial championships as they progressed through the ranks of minor hockey.

At 15, he was invited to play with the Aurora Tigers Jr. B team and, a couple of years later, he was drafted by the Toronto Marlies to play Jr. A. “I was just playing for the fun of it. I never, ever thought I’d play professional hockey,” Mr. Kitchen says. “I was playing because I loved it and then it just kept building and building.

“I was kind of a high-energy player. My skating ability was good, but I had no hands,” he continues. “I had to make it up in other ways, just being a hard worker.”

In 1975, Toronto won the Memorial Cup (Canadian Jr. A championship).

“I think when I first thought I had a chance to play professional hockey is when we won that championship. I thought maybe there’s an opportunity, that I could do something with this,” he says.

When he was drafted in 1976 by the Kansas City Scouts (which moved that year to Colorado then later to New Jersey), his goal became to play in just one NHL game.

After training camp, he was sent to the minors, but he soon realized his dream— starting against the Canadiens at the Montreal Forum. In the late 1970s, Montreal was the team to beat; they won the Cup in ’71, ’73, ’76, ’78 and ’79 and lost only eight games in the 80game 1976-77 season.

Mr. Kitchen has a clear recollection of the day.

“Talk about nerve-wracking,” he says. “My leg was shaking during the national anthem.

We’re standing on the blue line and I had a twitch and I couldn’t stop it.”

Mr. Kitchen retired after nine years with the same franchise. His young family settled in Aurora, Ont., close to family, and he spent two years away from hockey before he got a call from the Newmarket Saints (the Toronto Maple Leafs’ farm team), to ask if he would come on board as a part-time assistant coach.

After the season, he told the general manager the team needed a full-time assistant coach.

“That’s where you make your young players better,” Mr. Kitchen says. But the GM said he couldn’t do it.

Instead, he came back later that summer and offered Mr. Kitchen an assistant coach job in Toronto with the Maple Leafs.

Was he surprised?

“Yes, really! I wasn’t ready for that. I was actually shocked and I told him I would need to take two weeks to think about it.”

He needed the time to talk to his wife about what giving up a secure sales job to return to the rink would mean for their family, which now included two daughters.

“The hockey business, a lot of times, is very volatile. You’re hired to be fired. And we had a young family and weren’t sure we wanted to go through all that again.”

He stayed with Toronto for nine years and spent another nine years in St. Louis, six as an assistant coach and three as a head coach, before arriving in Chicago.

Coaching, says Mr. Kitchen, has given him a whole new perspective and love for the game.

“It’s the next best thing to being a player.

You can’t go out on the ice and do it, but you

can help the players go out and do it, which is really rewarding,” he says. “To show a player something in practice and watch him go out and do it in a game, you’re so excited about it.

Even the player will come back and say, ‘Did you see me? Did you see me?’”

Hockey has changed in the nearly 40 years since he played that first game in Montreal.

It’s faster and the players must be more efficient. For example, he says, you can’t be a “busy player”, stickhandling unnecessarily.

There is also an increased focus on fitness and nutrition.

“The only things a player has total control over are his work ethic and his fitness level,” said Mr. Kitchen. “If you’re coming to the NHL and you think that you’re in shape, you better be in shape. All the veterans take pride in their conditioning and they all strive to be the best-conditioned athlete in training camp…. Nutrition is also very important to them. They’re very conscious about what they put into their bodies.”

Coaches should set a good example in that regard, he says. “I think it’s important for the players to see you’re in good shape, that you’re conscious about your fitness level and your eating habits.”

It’s reflective of Mr. Kitchen’s philosophy on coaching. Sure, the goal every year is to win the Cup, but it takes more than skating and shooting to get there.

“It’s important for a coach to realize, it’s not just the game of hockey you’re working with these players on, it’s life skills, too. You’re trying to teach them certain things,” he says of younger players. “I think it’s really important for a coach to show that you’re interested in helping make them the best person they can be.”

Bringing it home

24

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As any hockey fan knows, one of the rewards for being on the winning team is a couple of days with the Cup. In 2013 and again this year, Mike Kitchen shared his reward with young patients at Southlake.

experience with the kids,” he says. “I could probably spend two days there with the Cup going around the hospital, to see the smiles on everyone’s faces. It’s just terrific”.

Mr. Kitchen traces his connection to Southlake back to childhood friends, Mark and Kathy English. Long-time supporters of the hospital, the coupe has contributed to various hospital initiatives and donated the funds to create David’s Room, a playroom in the paediatric wing, in memory of their son. That space was top on Mr. Kitchen’s list when he toured with the Cup. “The most important thing was to take it to the hospital and share that

Southlake physicians, staff and volunteers were equally as impressed and appreciative. “We couldn’t be more grateful to Mike for sharing such an amazing experience with the paediatric patients of Southlake,” said Neila Poscente, President and CEO of Southlake Foundation. “He is so generous and it truly speaks volumes about the close ties of our community that he would bring the Cup back home to York Region.”

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JIM CRAIGMYLE PHOTOGRAPH

The arThriTiS prOgraM iS Changing LiVeS Life after diagnosis has never been better

BY BILL HODGINS

the InformatIon and guIdanCe She reCeIved through the arthrItIS program at SouthlaKe haS enabled CarrIe barneS to Stay aCtIve after an arthrItIS dIagnoSIS.

26

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Five years ago, Carrie Barnes was in pain.

“My discomfort and immobility were disabling to the point of near complete dysfunction and my drive for embracing life was dwindling,” she says. Emotionally, she was also suffering—wondering, ‘When does this get better?’

Ms Barnes was active. She exercised. She was living what most consider a healthy lifestyle. That’s what made her arthritis diagnosis even more devastating.

Initially, it was just swelling in her feet when she ran. Then, more and more, she felt pain in her joints. Eventually, she turned to The Arthritis Program (TAP) at Southlake Regional Health Centre.

With approximately 10,000 patient care visits per year, TAP is an awardwinning regional program dedicated to delivering the highest quality arthritis care. The program also teaches and coaches other health care teams, medical trainees, residents and health care students who are interested in learning about TAP’s practice environment and approach to patient care.

For patients like Ms Barnes, it’s made a world of difference.

“I know there are still many hard and difficult days or maybe years ahead for me, but I will enjoy every minute of good health that I have today,” she says. “I want to use my abilities, no matter what limits I have, to encourage and empower others to thrive in their circumstances.”

Since its inception in 1991, TAP has used a team-based, patient-centred approach to the assessment, treatment and education of people of all ages who are diagnosed with or experiencing the symptoms of arthritis.

The program is committed to research and is involved in a number of leading-edge projects that are paving the way in the field of arthritis care.

In doing so, each professional involved “behind the scenes” has had input on the program’s success.

Lorna Bain, coordinator for TAP at Southlake, says it has been gratifying

to see the program evolve into a leader of team-based care across Canada.

“TAP is seen as a beacon,” she says, “providing guidance, leadership and consultation to health care providers in Canada and around the world on interprofessional, patient-centred models of care for rheumatic disease.”

She says TAP is known as a gold standard in quality education programs, assessment and treatment. “It not only leads, but raises the bar in opportunities to improve the lives of patients with arthritis.”

The value in TAP is not only seen within the parameters of patient satisfaction but also as it aligns with best clinical outcomes, Ms Bain says.

Team members have taken part in longterm observational studies aimed at determining the best treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and improving the quality of life for people living with arthritis. The program also has an ongoing partnership with York University that is focused on several education and therapeutic programs.

Ms Barnes can attest to the progress she has made with TAP and the role it has played in helping her reach some personal goals. For the last two years, with the encouragement of her friends and family, she signed up for a Tough Mudder event—a gruelling competition

More Than Just A Great Golf Course

of distance and obstacles designed to test the endurance of those athletes taking part.

“The Mudder was amazing. I completed every obstacle except for two, which I attempted, but each time fell into a big pit of muddy water,” she says. “Obviously, my muscles are sore and tired from running 17 kilometres and climbing up and over big

muddy obstacles, but otherwise I’m feeling good.”

She says she’s thankful to the team at TAP for helping her reach her goals, but she’s also been humbled by the whole experience.

“I have been given a great gift, a gift from many who have committed to excellence so that people like myself can live well.”

THe HigHesT QualiTY care The Arthritis Program at Southlake works with patients living with all forms of arthritis, including:

undetected and untreated, it can result in the bone breaking and a variety of complications.

Inflammatory arthritis, a term used to describe a group of conditions that affect your immune system and includes rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis. These types of arthritis cause pain, stiffness and joint damage and can affect your whole body.

Fibromyalgia, a condition whose symptoms may include, but are not limited to generalized aching, poor sleep, stiffness upon waking and fatigue throughout the day. TAP offers assessment and education to individuals with fibromyalgia, focusing on self-management and strategies on how individuals can successfully reach their personal goals.

Osteoarthritis, a breakdown or wearing out of the cartilage that provides a cushioning effect at the end of each bone.

Osteoporosis, a silent, painless disease where, over time, a bone becomes fragile due to loss of mass and strength. If

Juvenile arthritis. TAP provides assessment and treatment and acts as a liaison with the Hospital for Sick Children and the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.

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Mind and bodY a MaRTial aRTs pRiMeR

BY JOANN MACDONALD

From the meditative practice of tai chi to full-contact mixed martial arts, all styles of martial arts are formal systems historically used to train for combat. While each of them offers benefits to mind and body, some martial arts are appropriate for all ages and body types, while others are better suited to those in prime physical condition.

Martial arts are frequently described as soft or internal as compared to hard or external.

Internal martial arts are characterized by circular body motions. The martial artist may exert less force, using the attacker’s momentum against them through precise positioning.

The external martial arts, on the other hand, focus on strength, speed and meeting force with force.

Jeff Miller, manager of Northern Karate School in Aurora, says people come to martial arts for different reasons.

“Some people come for fitness because they find that a gym is boring. Not everybody wants to go to a gym and ride a bike every night.

When you come here, it’s always different.

Others did it when they were kids and they want to get back into it.”

Whether you’re looking to build your child’s self-confidence or discover a new form of exercise and stress relief for yourself, find out what type of martial arts may be right for you.

Here is a primer on some of the most popular styles.

KARATE One of the best-known martial arts in North America, the practice of karate began in Okinawa, Japan. Karate emphasizes striking techniques—punching, kicking and knee and elbow strikes. Movements also include openhanded techniques like the knife-hand strike, the motion informally referred to as the “karate chop.” Advanced practitioners use “weapons” that were historically farm implements, such as the kama, once a sickle for cutting grass. Northern Karate School welcomes students from ages three and 28

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onward. Mr. Miller says classes can be modified to suit people with physical limitations. “If you have a bad knee, you can do it. If you’re in a wheelchair, you can do it.

Anybody can come through that door and we make it work. We are all about achieving your personal best.”

Kung Fu Referring to a range of Chinese fighting styles, kung fu is similar to karate.

“The stance is a bit different, but these two are the closest martial arts,” says Mr. Miller.

“They teach self-defence and they work for anybody.” Like karate, kung fu emphasizes strikes to defend against attackers. Some practitioners also use throws and joint locks.

Internal styles harness qi (pronounced “chi”), the circulating life energy that is thought to be inherent in all things in Chinese philosophy.

External practices concentrate on improving cardiovascular and muscular fitness.

Taekwondo One of two martial arts appearing in the Olympics (along with judo), taekwondo is the Korean art of self-defence. “It’s typically not for adults who are new to martial arts. It changed a lot when it went to the Olympics.

It trains people for competition,” says Miller.

It is a system of kicks, punches, blocks and open-handed strikes, as well as throws, takedowns and joint locks. The style emphasizes kicking techniques, while karate focuses more on hand strikes. Taekwondo’s sequences of techniques are known as poomsae. Taekwondo translates to “the way of the fist and foot.” Do translates to “the correct way,” emphasizing the need for mental focus as well as physical movement. “It involves a lot of kicking, punching and sparring,” notes Mr. Miller.

Tai Chi While the westernized version of tai chi is more a form of exercise, tai chi is a Chinese martial art designed to provide self-defence and health benefits. The slow and deliberate movements of tai chi can be accelerated to match an opponent. Millions of people in China and throughout the world practice tai chi’s choreographed movements to improve their health, reduce stress and maintain vitality. Tai chi is suitable for all ages and fitness levels and can be adapted for those in wheelchairs. The practice energizes the body and is considered moving meditation.

Aikido

Judo

Developed in the last century, aikido is a relatively modern Japanese martial art that involves deflecting attacks by flowing with the motion of the attacker. A grappling art, it employs locks, throws and holds. It was popularized in film by actor and practitioner Steven Seagal. Created by Morihei Ueshiba, aikido combines martial arts with spirituality and is meant as a method of self-defence that protects the attacker from being injured. Its focus on directing an attacker’s momentum makes it an internal martial art.

Hapkido A Korean martial art that, like aikido, involves throwing your opponent, hapkido makes use of soft techniques such as harnessing an opponent’s energy. It also involves punching and kicking techniques.

Hapkido is designed as self-defence.

Practitioners use circular motions, nonresisting movements, footwork and body positioning. Weapons such as swords, ropes and canes may be used.

Not for the martial arts newbie, judo sees participants throw their opponents down to the ground and immobilize them. An Olympic sport, judo involves grappling maneuvers, joint locks, strangle holds and choking. While strikes and thrusts are permitted in prescribed forms (kata), these maneuvers are not used in competition.

MMA (Mixed Arts) A combination of fighting styles that takes techniques from karate, jiu-jitsu and muay thai, mixed martial arts is a full-contact combat program. Practitioners fight in a standing position and on the ground and use striking and grappling techniques from various disciplines. It makes for an intense cardio and muscle-building workout. While the modern term mixed martial arts is a product of recent decades, the practice hearkens back to the fighting styles of the ancient Olympic combat sport known as pankration, a blend of boxing and wrestling.

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a FreSh TaKe On The KiTChen garden Your cold weather gardening fix - online!

B Y L E E A N N W AT E R M A N

Call it a modern take on the centuries old kitchen garden.

Inspired by her grandparents and determined to teach her own children where their food comes from, Toronto resident Erin Spencer forayed into urban gardening.

She created a 15-by-4-foot plot in her small backyard (borrowing a bit of unused space from her neighbours) and sought out some experts—from local growers to professional farmers to celebrity chefs—who could help her understand the importance of “growing local”.

Her journey from dirt delivery to harvest is chronicled in the new and engaging YouTube series “Dirty Girl” and aims to 30

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encourage other urban dwellers to develop their own green thumbs (while being entertaining along the way).

“It’s trial and error gardening,” she says in the first webisode. “If I can do it, you can do it.”

Throughout the first season of the series, Ms Spencer faced pretty typical trials—like plants that didn’t flourish because of weather or location—but her biggest challenge was keeping the city critters away from her crops. It’s pretty disheartening, she says, to watch a tomato slowly ripen only to have it go missing the day you plan to harvest.

Her advice to newbie or would-be urban gardeners is to start small, with a space you can easily manage, and choose veggies you

like to eat and that grow well in southern Ontario—such as lettuce, tomatoes, peas and radishes.

“You should remember that gardening is supposed to bring you joy; it’s not supposed to be another chore,” she says.

With her raspberry bushes pruned, garlic planted, beds cleared of annuals and soil prepped for spring, Ms Spencer has plans to join her local gardening club to keep her inspired through the colder months.

So what is she excited about for next year’s gardening season?

“Everything,” she says with a laugh. “I’m grumpy all winter. I literally dance around the garden as soon as the chives pop up in the spring.”

WHY grOW? Urban gardener Erin Spencer offers five reasons why you should consider creating an edible garden come spring.

• Taste. You can’t compare the flavour of a home-grown tomato or cucumber to something you buy at the grocery store.

• Health. If you’re concerned about pesticides on produce, for example, growing your own is one solution.

• Education. A home garden can teach your children or grandchildren about food production—and you’ll probably find a new appreciation for farmers along the way, too.

• Well-being. “I love being in my garden because it’s relaxing,” Ms Spencer says. Gardening has proven mental health benefits.

• Money. With the cost of fresh produce rising, a garden can provide healthy, tasty food at a reasonable price.

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recipes BY LEIGh & MEG

COSY UP

to this comforting soup SPICY TOMATO & SWEET POTATO SOUP Every fall as the leaves change, we have an intense urge to curl up with a plaid blanket and eat a delicious bowl of soup. Although it never happens quite like that, it has nevertheless become a mission of ours to have a different soup on hand each week to add to any meal or simply enjoy on its own. This one holds a spot in our top three. It is packed with flavour, healthy and our family enjoys it —we are not just saying that, they really do eat this!

1-5 mL (1/4-1 tsp) crushed red pepper flakes 3 carrots, chopped 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped 1 825 mL (28 oz) can of tomatoes 1,250-1,500 mL (5-6 cups) chicken broth 1 mL (1/4 tsp) dried thyme bay leaf salt and pepper METHOD Heat oil in a large pot, over medium-high heat. Add onions, celery, garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until onion is soft, approximately 5 minutes.

Add carrots, tomatoes and sweet potatoes.

Mix well. Add broth, ensuring vegetables are covered. Add thyme, bay leaf and salt and

INGREDIENTS 15-30 mL (1-2 tbsp) olive oil 1 small onion, chopped 3 celery stalks, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced

pepper to taste.

Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes.

Remove bay leaf and blend soup with an immersion blender or counter-top blender until smooth.

TIP: For extra flavor, add a Parmesan rind to the soup while simmering and remove before blending.

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Family Owned. Proudly Canadian.

B REHABILITATION E EMERGENCY PAEDIATRICS D INTENSIVE S CARE Hospital beds are the most overlooked piece of equipment.

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FA L L 2 0 1 5

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JIM CRAIGMYLE PHOTOGRAPH StayIng aCtIve and engaged are Key to a fulfIllIng retIrement, SayS author Walter blonSKI, 70, Who CountS renovatIng hIS home and rollerbladIng aS tWo aCtIvItIeS that Keep hIm buSy.

reTireMenT repreSenTS new OppOrTuniTieS

Author Walter Blonski urges soon-to-be seniors to live life to the fullest

BY BILL HODGINS

Walter Blonski is pretty proud of the fact that he is not able to retire. Admittedly, he’s tried it a number of times, but retirement never stuck. He’s too busy embracing life.

That’s the message behind Mr. Blonski’s latest endeavour, a book aimed at those inching closer to traditional retirement years.

“If life were to be measured over a ruler, retirement would come in the last few inches”, he says. It’s this idea that inspired the book’s current working title, The Last Inch of Your Life, which aims to inspire retirees to view their later years more as a career change, an 34

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opportunity to do something they really want to do.

“I’m trying to find a more uplifting title to better reflect the idea,” quipped Mr. Blonski.

“The main idea is to live for those last few inches.”

Recently turned 70 years old, Mr. Blonski has always stressed having a healthy lifestyle through fitness, nutritious eating habits and proper financial management, not just for retirement, but for your entire life. He recommends that people should stay active and engaged in life, rather than sitting back

and not doing something they love.

“I don’t retire well,” Mr. Blonski says with a chuckle, “The word doesn’t even feel right; I just continuously change what I’m doing.”

His first real change happened 20 years ago when he was working for an international technology company that began offering generous packages for staff to step down from their jobs. Some of his colleagues were jumping at the packages and talking about what “life after work” would look like. Mr. Blonski thought, “Why not?”

Shortly after accepting the package, Mr.

“If you’re not satisfied with what you’re currently doing, change and do something new.”

AUTHOR WALTER BLONSKI

Blonski had doubts about his decision. “I sat there wondering, ‘What did I just do?”

But within weeks he was offered another job through a head hunter and since then has pursued a plethora of other interests including: doing renovations, volunteering with various charities (including Southlake) and establishing a reputation for his professional photography.

Retirement, in the traditional sense, did not have much appeal.

“I often hear people say they can do whatever they want when they retire, but when the time comes, it doesn’t happen and then I hardly see them again.” Mr. Blonski looks to encourage retirees—and those soon-to-be—to take the time to re-evaluate their later years. “I hope to kickstart them a bit.”

Writing was always a key component of Mr. Blonski’s career, from writing speeches and reports, to preparing manuals and articles to be published in business journals. He wanted to continue writing and since retirement is a topic in many of his conversations, decided to write

this book. “Too many fear retirement; they fear not having enough money; they don’t know what to do,” he says, “This is what I hope to address in my book.”

According to Statistics Canada, Canadians aged 50 or over can expect to work for an average of 16 more years compared to the 1990s when the expected career span at age 50 was 13 more years. Canadians have been increasingly delaying their retirement.

StatsCan also stresses that social participation is a significant correlation of health and wellbeing in older adults. It’s estimated 80 per cent of seniors participate in at least one social activity. And while multiple physical health issues, such as chronic conditions and reduced mobility and functioning, often affect seniors, many feel healthy and are willing to take action to improve their health.

Mr. Blonski is hoping to give that figure a boost through his book. “I’ve always been active in my spare time whether it’s with home renovations, playing sports or photography,” he

says, “If you’re not satisfied with what you’re currently doing, change and do something new.”

Recently, he volunteered at the Run or Walk for Southlake, handing out water to the participants while snapping candid photos of the event. Volunteering is another way of staying active while giving back to the community and supporting a good cause.

To stay motivated, Mr. Blonski uses the analogy of a classic automobile. Folks appreciate a car kept in good shape, running almost as well as it did fresh off the assembly line. However, maintaining a pristine condition requires frequent tune-ups; it needs regular oil changes and to be kept rust-free. That’s what he hopes those approaching retirement age will think about.

And, to those who have reached the golden years, even though your car may have been sitting in the driveway for a bit, a little care and attention can get the motor back up and running again.

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905-222-0823 or toll free 1-866-345-0224

www.cmha-yr.on.ca/york-mental-health/bounce_back For more information, talk to your doctor

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JIM CRAIGMYLE PHOTOGRAPH

behind

the scenes

The Changing Face Of Medicine: Southlake leads charge in interprofessional collaboration

by J enn R ae

Caledon resident Lesley Beagrie has been engaged in health care education for the majority of her career. Holding positions such as director, school of nursing; associate dean, faculty of health; and interprofessional health lead for York University’s faculty of health, she has been a leader as a teacher and researcher of patient-centred care approaches.

But when Ms Beagrie was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014, she suddenly found herself in the role of the patient. “I had no other choice but to accept the reality of the disease and the resulting treatment regimens.”

Ms Beagrie underwent surgery and chemotherapy in Toronto, but when the stress of daily travel for radiation therapy became too much for her and her family, she asked for her care to be transferred to the Stronach Regional Cancer Centre at Southlake to reduce what she calls an “unnecessary stressor” in her life.

Professionally, Ms Beagrie was already very aware of Southlake’s commitment to interprofessional collaboration and patientcentred care, having worked with the hospital on several occasions. As a patient, she experienced Southlake’s commitment to care firsthand. From the first encounter by telephone to set up her first appointment to the most recent follow-up call she received, the personalized approach by every team member has impressed Ms Beagrie.

Patient-centred care is being adopted throughout Ontario to improve the patient experience. As part of Southlake’s strategic plan to create the “ultimate patient experience”, the hospital has become a champion of interprofessional care.

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Lorna Bain, Coordinator of Interprofessional Collaboration and Dr. Zaev Wulffhart, Physician Leader, Regional Cardiac Care Program were recently awarded the 2015 Team Award of Merit from the University of Toronto.

Led by Lorna Bain, coordinator of interprofessional collaboration and education and coordinator of The Arthritis Program (TAP), and Dr. Zaev Wulffhart, Physician Leader, Regional Cardiac Care Program, the hospital has made a commitment to build a culture of interprofessional care, where health care professionals are inspired and empowered to work together, enhance team dynamics and, ultimately, improve patient outcomes. At an annual development opportunity, members of all departments and practices come together to learn about each other’s roles and how they can work together to benefit patients.

“We arm our teams with the tools and communication strategies to create partnerships between care providers, patients and their families,” explains Ms Bain. “Successful interprofessional collaboration is based on trust, respect, conflict management and effective communication.”

Outside of the hospital, Dr. Wulffhart and Ms Bain teach a two-part series at the University of Toronto that brings clinical application and examples of interprofessional care into the classroom. Through the experiential opportunities that they create, students learn how they can play a role in minimizing risk and increasing patient safety and quality by maximizing interprofessional collaboration.

The pair were also recently honoured with a 2015 Team Award of Merit from the University of Toronto. “The award is special because we are being recognized not only for the work we are doing in academic classroom teaching, but also for work we are doing within our hospital,” says Ms Bain. “Teamwork is essential to attain

excellent patient outcomes. Elements of collaborative teamwork need to be continuously worked on to get these results. It is about understanding how we can all contribute by effectively using the breadth and depth of our individual skill to create group synergy.”

The award showcases the commitment, dedication and ability to influence change within the culture of health care. Dr. Wulffhart and Ms Bain stress that although they are teaching staff and students interprofessional skills, there is no true algorithm for this type of practice.

“The award is a validation that you’re doing something useful. There are lots of areas of learning that are underemphasized but are vital to practice. People are becoming accepting of the culture shift and we [Southlake] are being noticed for that change,” says Dr. Wulffhart.

For many of Southlake’s patients, interprofessional collaboration is simply part of the shockingly excellent experiences that Southlake has earned a reputation for. It happens so naturally and seamlessly that most patients wouldn’t know the amount of work that has gone into developing it.

But for patients like Ms Beagrie, who spent much of her professional life studying and teaching this model of care, witnessing how Southlake has championed this approach was an eye-opening experience.

“Southlake really highlighted the patientcentred application to practice for me,” says Ms Beagrie. “I’ve been teaching patient-centred care for years, but to see it in practice, and at such a phenomenal level of personal care … I was blown away.”

celebrating collaboration Each fall, Southlake’s interprofessional faculty, led by Dr. Zaev Wulffhart and Lorna Bain, hosts a workshop to create shockingly excellent experiences through team collaboration. Southlake physicians and staff members come together as a testament to their commitment towards collaborative care. They are presented with tools and strategies to increase collaboration within and across programs to enhance patient care opportunities.

At a celebration event held six months after the workshop, the interprofessional teams update their colleagues on the initiatives that they develop and commit to at the workshop, thanks to the new skills they have attained.

The Diagnostic Imaging (DI) team explained to the group how the workshop highlighted inefficiencies and empowered team members to make changes.

“There was a perception that our department’s involvement in patient care begins and ends with an x-ray,” a representative from the team said. “But in reality, we do so much more. Diagnostic

imaging is critical for diagnosing and treating illness and our department wanted to play a larger role in our patients’ overall care.”

allowing the radiologist and DI team members to prioritize urgent tests and receive accurate clinical history to provide the most appropriate procedure.

The workshop inspired the DI team to realize that they had to take the initiative and educate others on their role. They began by introducing new learning and communications tools that they developed as a team. They provided an education platform at multiple organized committees, which was well-received by their colleagues.

The new process improved wait times from four to eight days to just a day and half. With less wait times for procedures, all patients receive a diagnosis in a timely manner and can receive treatment quickly if necessary.

By opening the lines of communication with other departments, the DI team was able to attain information to identify redundancies, improve efficiencies and impact patient care. They developed several new communication tools for all inpatients that required interventional radiology diagnostic tests, giving all health care professionals a “snapshot” of everything that was required to proceed with a test. Team members adopted the process of having all physicians complete an interventional radiology requisition,

The DI team was just one of seven teams presenting results at the celebration event, where Dr. Wulffhart and Ms Bain congratulated all the teams for their efforts. “You stepped out of your comfort zones, where non-communication can lead to a lack of productivity,” Dr. Wulffhart said.” Your intrinsic motivation—your passion—is something we are all proud of.”

“People who share in ideas to enhance collaboration are leaders,” added Ms Bain.

“Each one of you in this room is a leader and we thank you for your courage to make improvements and for the impact you are having on patient care.”

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hospital NEWS

mIChael ryan, ClInICal eduCator for the StronaCh regIonal CanCer Centre, gIveS neWmarKet-aurora mpp ChrIS ballard an InSIde vIeW of a lInear aCCelerator, WhIle yorKSImCoe mpp JulIa munro looKS on. the tourS Were part of the fIfth annIverSary CelebratIon of the StronaCh regIonal CanCer Centre.

M AT T H A G G E R T Y P H O T O G R A P H

5 YearS OF Care CLOSe TO hOMe stronach regional cancer centre at southlake marks anniversary

It was a packed house five years ago as politicians, hospital staff, donors, community members and patients gathered at the newly constructed Stronach Regional Cancer Centre at Southlake to celebrate the centre’s grand opening and the availability of comprehensive cancer care services for the first time in York Region and south Simcoe County.

The dream to bring the cancer centre to the region, and more specifically to Newmarket’s Southlake Regional Health Centre, began many years before the centre’s opening in 2010.

On the often long road of government approvals, design and construction, the vision and tenacity to bring the centre to the region never faded. The community responded like never before—even during an unexpected economic downturn—and through the Southlake…count on me campaign, a recordsetting $64.8 million was raised to make this dream a reality. Southlake...count on me was the largest campaign in the hospital’s history and the single largest hospital fundraising campaign outside of Toronto at the time.

On Oct. 2, 2015, the cancer centre was once again abuzz as many of the same individuals gathered to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the opening of the Centre. Dr. David Fell, vicepresident of patient experiences for cardiac and cancer at Southlake and regional vicepresident, cancer services for the Central LHIN with Cancer Care Ontario, welcomed the crowd by acknowledging the support of 38

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the many people in the room who once played or continue to play a key role in ensuring the latest in comprehensive care services are available to patients in the community.

Southlake President and CEO Dr. Dave Williams shared the news that the centre will be moving ahead with plans to equip a fourth radiation treatment room, increasing its ability to provide radiation treatment services to residents of York Region and south Simcoe County. MPP Chris Ballard offered congratulatory remarks to the crowd on behalf of the government of Ontario.

Today, the cancer centre provides the most up-to-date screening and diagnostic equipment, timely treatment using best practices and state-of-the-art technological and medical advances. And while healing is the top priority of the cancer centre, taking care of both the physical and emotional wellbeing of patients and their families is important. The centre offers a full range of supportive care services to address the emotional, social and spiritual needs that are associated with a cancer diagnosis.

Having a full spectrum of cancer care services available within minutes of home has transformed the lives of thousands of cancer patients and their families each year. In 201415, more than 600 patients walked through the doors of the cancer centre and staff and physicians working in the centre provided 57,000 outpatient consultations. over the last five years.

all in THe numBers The Stronach Regional Cancer Centre has accomplished much in five years: • 56, 918 outpatient visits • 10,102 chemotherapy and supportive treatment visits • 25,808 radiation fractions • 99 per cent patient satisfaction

The Stronach Regional Cancer Centre at Southlake is the designated regional program for the Central Regional Cancer program, located within the Central LHIN. There are 14 designated regional cancer programs in the province. Created and funded by Cancer Care Ontario, the regional program is responsible for the delivery of cancer care through a network of service providers that includes: Humber River Hospital, Mackenzie Health, Markham Stouffville Hospital, North York and Stevenson Memorial Hospital. The program is also complemented by a number of community service providers, including public health units, Community Care Access Centres and hospices.

To learn more about the stronach regional cancer centre at southlake, visit southlakeregional.org/cancer.

HealTH care: a lOOk aHeaD From cause awareness to celebrating health care professionals, each month there are many health observances on the calendar.

By keeping your cause-directed donations local, your gift will help transform lives close to home at Southlake.

nOvemBer Lung Cancer Awareness Month National Family Caregiver Week November 1 to 7 Medical Radiation Technologists Week November 2 to 8

Family Doctor Week November 10 to 15 World Diabetes Day November 14

DecemBer National Safe Driving Week December 1 to 7 Worlds AIDS Day December 1

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women December 6

januarY Alzheimer Awareness Month

feBruarY Heart Month

Celebrate World-Class Cardiac Care at Southlake Southlake’s Regional Cardiac Program is one of the largest in the province, pioneering techniques being used around the world.

Celebrate this world-class program, right in your own backyard by directing your Heart Month donations to Southlake.

Eating Disorder Awareness Week February 1 to5

World Cancer Day February 4

marcH National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

International Women’s Day March 8 FA L L 2 0 1 5

39

foundation NEWS

Hospice Project moving Forward

It was a fruitful summer for Southlake’s love lives here campaign to build a residential hospice.

Several events were held in support of the campaign as well as many individual gifts made, bringing the total amount raised to an impressive $3 million of the $12-million goal.

These funds will be used to cover not just the cost of construction, but also outfitting and

landscaping of the 10-bed residential hospice and a portion of the operating costs for the first three years.

Given that construction of the new hospice is an “own funds” project, which means it is 100 per cent funded by the community, Southlake recently elected to revisit the original design of the project in order to reduce costs and get the best value for donated

dollars. A new request for tender will be issued in January 2016, with construction expected to start in the spring. The facility is expected to be ready to welcome its first patients in the spring of 2017.

When complete, the hospice will serve at least 250 patients a year, in the end stages of any terminal illness from York Region and surrounding communities.

Driving Home Support for Southlake As the new year fast approaches, you could enter for the chance to drive home your support for Southlake – in a brand new car!

Highland Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac has generously donated a 2015 luxury Verano to be raffled in support of Southlake. The Lions Club of Newmarket will manage raffle ticket sales, which will be supported by the Upper Canada Mall (where one Verano will be on display). These three amazing organizations’ partnership is an incredible example of a community coming together in support of great care. Together, we will help transform lives at Southlake.

Watch for more information on the raffle in January!

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coMMuniTY evenT lisTings EVENTS SUPPORTING SOUTHLAKE THREE AMIGOS ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT, INVITATIONAL EVENT November 2015 Event contact: Mark Russell Contact information: mark.russell@BMRmanagement.ca In support of Southlake’s Diabetes Education Centre.

‘STACHE FOR SOUTHLAKE November 2015 Event contact: Corinna Jones Contact information: CJones@southlakeregional.org For more information: southlakefoundation.ca/ stacheforsouthlake In support of men’s “below the belt” cancers in our community.

TIMBERLANE LADIES’ HOLIDAY LUNCHEON November 2015 Event contact: Timberlane Athletic Club Contact information: 905-727-4252 or admin@timberlaneathleticclub.com In support of Southlake’s Regional Cardiac Care Program and Stronach Regional Cancer Centre.

SWEEP FOR SOUTHLAKE – CURLING BONSPIEL Saturday, January 16, 2016 Event contact: Alexandra Boasie-Goodman or Michael Goodman Contact information: sweep4southlake@gmail.com In support of Stronach Regional Cancer Centre.

PRODUCTS & SERVICES SUPPORTING SOUTHLAKE NEWMARKET HURRICANES 3,000 CAMPAIGN During regular season, 1,000 fans in the seats = $1,000 cash giveaway and $1,000 donation to Southlake! Fans, make sure to fill the seats! newmarkethurricanes.com In support of Stronach Regional Cancer Centre.

IN HONOUR OF MARLENE MACPHERSON Get your copy of Marlene’s Cookbook online while quantities last. shop.marlenesmealmakeovers.com In support of Stronach Regional Cancer Centre.

SEALED FOR A CAUSE Specializes in sealed bid auctions in high-traffic areas to raise funds for various organizations.

Various locations throughout York Region.

Contact: Keith Vriesen For more information: 905-830-5504 or sealedforacause@gmail.com/sealedforacause.com

BENSON KEARLEY IFG Insurance Brokers & Financial Advisors $10 to Southlake for every no obligation quote. bensonkearleyifg.com.

STRETCH THRIFT OUTLET AND BIN LOCATIONS Locations: 6 The Queensway S., Sutton and 26602 Hwy. 48 N., Sutton West Accepting gently used clothing, housewares and furniture donations.

Portion of proceeds support Stronach Regional Cancer Centre.

DONATE A CAR Donate a Car Canada accepts vehicle donations where net proceeds go to support Southlake Regional Health Centre.

For more information: donatecar.ca, search “Southlake” under the Charities tab .

STEPS CLOTHING BIN DONATIONS Locations: Southlake Campus and Magna Centre Magna Centre open Saturdays and Sundays 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

In support of hospital-wide priorities.

1001 PICTURES FOR SOUTHLAKE Order at Southlake Gift Shop or online For more information: dubiproductions.com In support of hospital-wide priorities.

transform lives

raise funds

host an event

+

= > it’s that easy!

REGISTER YOUR EVENT IN SUPPORT OF SOUTHLAKE TODAY | southlakefoundation.ca

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last WORD

keeping classRooMs HealTHY Immunization essential part of health for school-aged children B Y M A R J O LY N P R I T C H A R D

As a parent, you’re always looking out for your child’s health. A cornerstone of good health for children is following Ontario’s publicly funded immunization schedule.

Keeping you and your family up to date on vaccinations is the best defense against a number of harmful and preventable diseases.

Immunization is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle and is one of the most important ways to prevent illness from vaccine-preventable diseases.

PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN

Immunizations protect children from a number of potentially dangerous diseases.

Nearly all of these vaccine-preventable diseases can spread easily from person to person and can cause serious complications or even death.

Under the Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA), Ontario students are required by law to show proof of immunization against the following designated diseases, unless they have a valid exemption (for example, a medical reason such as prior immunity or medical contraindication or an affidavit of conscience or religious belief ): • Diphtheria • Polio • Tetanus • Measles • Mumps • Rubella • Meningococcal disease • Pertussis (whooping cough) • Varicella (chickenpox) for children born in 2010 or later In 2014, changes were made to the ISPA to add immunization requirements for three diseases: meningococcal disease, pertussis (whooping cough) and varicella (chickenpox).

Children are required to be vaccinated against these diseases to attend school. Check your records or contact your family physician to ensure your children have received these vaccines.

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This school year, York Region Public Health’s priority will be students aged seven and 17.

Public Health will be working with parents and guardians to ensure these students are protected against these vaccine-preventable diseases and that their immunization records are up to date. Students not up to date with their required immunizations can be suspended from school.

If your school-aged children have not received a particular vaccine, Public Health provides a selection of vaccines at community clinics in Newmarket, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham and Keswick. Clinics run from 3 to 7 p.m. in various locations throughout the month. These community clinics can help school-aged children catch up on some vaccinations they may have missed and are offered free of charge.

You can view clinic schedules and available vaccines and also book appointments online at york.ca/immunizations.

KEEP PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE LOOP

Parents and guardians of school-aged children are responsible for providing up to date immunization information to York Region Public Health. Your doctor and school do not supply the information on your behalf.

Luckily, reporting immunization information has never been easier. Parents/guardians can report the information for their children online at eimmunization.york.ca or by calling York Region Public Health at 1-877-464-9675, ext.

73456. marjolyn pritchard is the Director of infectious Diseases control for York region public Health.

for more information, visit york.ca/ immunizations or call 1-877-464-9675, ext. 73452 to speak with a nurse from York region’s vaccine-preventable disease program.

Did you know?

One hundred years ago, infectious diseases were the leading cause of death worldwide.

In Canada, they now cause less than 5 per cent of all deaths — thanks to immunization programs in place across the country.

Vaccines used in Canada are very safe.

They are developed with the highest standards and are continuously monitored and tested before being approved for use.

Remember to keep your vaccinations up to date. Vaccination is a lifelong process.

For more information, visit immunize.ca.

B DEFIBRILLATOR E SCALPEL D TUBE FEEDING STETHOSCOPE S Hospital beds are the most overlooked piece of equipment.

With community support, Southlake will replace nearly every bed hospital-wide over the next 3 years. From the Emergency Department, to the ICU, to paediatrics and beyond, you can help ensure that our patients have a safe and comfortable place to heal.

HELP BUY A BED TODAY | southlakefoundation.ca

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5 WAYS

B Y L E E A N N W AT E R M A N

TO BOOsT YOur energY The shorter days and cooler temperatures of fall and winter can sometimes sap your get-up-and-go. Boost your mental and physical energy by following these easy tips.

1

Take a nap

But make it a short one. A 10-to-30-minute rest can improve alertness and also give you a mental break.

However napping for long periods during the day can ruin a good night’s sleep; so set an alarm and resist the urge to hit the snooze button.

2

Go for a brisk walk

3

Find the positive

4

Take a deep breath

5

Eat for endurance

Or 10. Think of this as a mini-mediation that can provide a sense of calm and renewed focus. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, clear your mind and breathe deeply.

Take 10 minutes out of your workday for a quick tour around the block. Walking is a proven energy booster and the effects can last for up to two hours. The fresh air might also help to sweep away any mental cobwebs.

Surrounding yourself with positive people can replenish your energy stores, while hanging around negative people, sometimes called “energy vampires,” does the opposite. Make some time for the positive people in your life.

Choose meals and snacks that combine complex carbohydrates and protein. Whole grain granola with yogurt and fruit, hummus and raw vegetables, such as carrots and broccoli or salmon with quinoa and green beans are just a few options.

The statements above should not be considered medical advice. please check with your primary health care provider before starting any treatment.

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