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from the publisher
With the official launch of spring upon us, I suspect many of our readers are hoping for warmer weather. It’s hard to imagine that just a month ago we were enjoying a true Canadian winter, with snow falls breaking records almost weekly. All that fresh snow made for great skiing conditions, and this past winter our family pass at Batawa Ski Hill was used well. We enjoyed every moment. Coupled with nights watching the Olympics in Sochi and days on the hill, saying goodbye to ski weather will be difficult! The Bay of Quinte Region has so much to offer to stay active as the warmer weather approaches. Quinte Tennis Club is a great example of a staple in our community and opens its doors soon. Our waterfront trail is perfect for that early morning run or afternoon ride and then a visit to our Farmers market. Our local conservation areas are beautiful and give children a chance to explore and have an adventure. Sandbanks Provincial Park is our local treasure. Sometimes we make a day of it on Kingston’s Waterfront Pathway. We eventually end up at Springer Market Square - home to one of Canadas oldest markets, and then inside for delicious local fare. As past Publisher of Kingston Life Magazine, on rare occasion I would make it out of the Princess Street office and spend a few moments at the waterfront for lunch. Not only did it give time to move and clear my mind, it gave me an at-a-glance look at this active and vibrant community. In this first issue of 2014, we’ve extended our magazine to the Greater Kingston area. Our circulation now brings together active communities from Kingston to Brighton, Prince 4
Edward County to the north. Pairing these two Regions on our pages is something I’ve been looking forward to for some time. We are not a lifestyle publication. We’re a publication specifically geared towards environmental sustainability, wellness, fitness, eco products, healthy eating, healthy kids and even healthy pets! Our ongoing focus will be about improving quality of life overall. We circulate in synergistic locations, getting into the hands of the right readers. Readers who want to hear from us - readers like you. We look forward to providing just that - in print and digital. At healthy living magazine, spring also means the return of the annual healthy living EXPO at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre April 5th. This fabulous show celebrates its 4th anniversary this year. A great run for what has been the largest health and wellness EXPO locally. There’s nothing better than meeting face-to-face with the experts who give us the gift of a fit body and mind, while discovering the products and services offered by our amazing exhibitors. Be sure to go to page 19 for your discount entry coupon to the EXPO, as a reader of HLN magazine! Your ticket to the EXPO gives you the chance to win over 60 draws that day. Follow us on Facebook for a behind-the-scenes look our speaker bios, exhibitor information and a list of available draws you can win. Stop by the healthy living booth and say hello! See you at the EXPO April 5th!
Publisher / Editor Lori Mitchell Design Nicole Lucas, Cricket Illustrations Photography Greg Black, Queens Communications Stephen Petrick Contributing Writers / Copywriters Dr. David Suzuki Dr. Natasha Turner, N.D. Drew Brown, E.D. BGHF Dr. Kristina Bennett Alexandria Barker Cheryl Lepine Dyan Perry Tiffany Bambrick Daniella Barsotti Trevor Degen Stephen Petrick Lois Bastedo Debra Wilson Susan Harrison Suzanne Kerr Amy Doyle Advertising inquiries:
Bay of Quinte Region: Lori Mitchell hlnpublisher@cogeco.ca 613.920.1232 Greater Kingston area: Sharon Coon, Advertising Director scoon@bell.net 613-541-1614 HLN is published via LoLa Communications Inc. Visit us online at www.hlnow.ca
All rights reserved. Publisher does not accept responsibility for views expressed by Contributors. No reproduction in any form or by any means is permitted without written permission of the Publisher. Publisher does not accept responsibility for advertising content.
{contents} green living........................................ 6-7 wellness.............................................8-10 awareness............................................11 healthy eating.................................12-13 fitness............................................. 14-18 healthy living EXPO ............................ 19 products new & now ..................... 20-23 spring health....................................... 24 BGHF update .......................................25 family strategies............................. 26-28 healthy kids.................................... 30-31 healthy pets................................... 32-33 advanced technology........................ 34 5
green living
.......................................................................... What you need to know
about toxins in your cosmetic products
.......................................................................... and BHT 01 BHA Used mainly in moisturizers and makeup as preservatives. Suspected
endocrine disruptor’s and may cause cancer (BHA). Harmful to fish and other wildlife.
tar dyes: p-phenylenediamine and colours listed as “CI” followed 02 Coal by a five digit number. Written and Researched by the David Suzuki Foundation www.davidsuzuki.org
Some of the ingredients in beauty products aren’t that pretty. A U.S. researcher reports that one in eight of the 82,000 ingredients used in personal care products are industrial chemicals, including carcinogens, pesticides, reproductive toxins, and hormone disruptor’s. Many products include plasticizers (chemicals that keep concrete soft), degreasers (used to get grime off auto parts), and surfactants (they reduce surface tension in water, like in paint and inks). Imagine what that does to your skin, and to the environment. We surveyed Canadians to see how many of the Dirty Dozen Ingredients listed here appeared in their cosmetics, and our findings show that 80 percent of entered products contained at least one of these toxic chemicals. You can avoid harmful chemicals when you audit your bathroom cupboard using this list of harmful ingredients:
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Look for p-phenylenediamine hair dyes and in other products colours listed as “CI” followed by five digits. 1 The U.S. colour name may also be listed (e.g. “FD&C Blue No. 1” or “Blue 1”). Potential to cause cancer and may be contaminated with heavy metals toxic to the brain.
ingredients 03 DEA-related Used in creamy and foaming
products, such as moisturizers and shampoos. Can react to form nitrosamines, which may cause cancer. Harmful to fish and other wildlife. Look also for related chemicals MEA and TEA.
phthalate 04 Dibutyl Used as a plasticizer in some nail care products. Suspected endocrine disrupter and reproductive toxicant. Harmful to fish and other wildlife.
preservatives 05 Formaldehyde-releasing Look for DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl
urea, imidazolidinyl urea, methenamine and quarternium-15. Used in a variety of cosmetics. Slowly release small amounts of formaldehyde, which causes cancer.
06 Parabens Used in a variety of cosmetics as preservatives. Suspected endocrine disrupter’s and may interfere with male reproductive functions.
(a.k.a. fragrance) 07 Parfum Any mixture of fragrance ingredients used in a variety of cosmetics — even in some products marketed as “unscented.” Some fragrance ingredients can trigger allergies and asthma. Some linked to cancer and neurotoxicity. Some harmful to fish and other wildlife.
green living
compounds 08 PEG Used in many cosmetic
cream bases. Can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, which may cause cancer. Also for related chemical propylene glycol and other ingredients with the letters “eth” (e.g., polyethylene glycol).
09 Petrolatum Used in some
hair products for shine and as a moisture barrier in some lip balms, lip sticks and moisturizers. A petroleum product that can be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which may cause cancer.
Publishers tip: I love to discover new products at the Cosmetics Counter each season. Time for myself is limited and my eyes begin to glaze over when reading the ingredients. It’s frustrating when you are in a hurry! The terminology can be a bit discouraging but we’ve found a solution. Visit www.hlnow.ca and click the “what’s inside shoppers guide”. At wallet size, you can fold and keep in your purse, ready and waiting for your next Cosmetics trip on the fly.
10 Siloxanes Look for ingredients
ending in “-siloxane” or “-methicone.” Used in a variety of cosmetics to soften, smooth and moisten. Suspected endocrine disrupter and reproductive toxicant (cyclotetrasiloxane). Harmful to fish and other wildlife.
laureth sulfate 11 Sodium Used in foaming cosmetics, such as shampoos, cleansers and bubble bath. Can be contaminated with
1,4-dioxane, which may cause cancer. Look also for related chemical sodium lauryl sulfate and other ingredients with the letters “eth” (e.g., sodium laureth sulfate).
12 Triclosan Used in antibacterial cosmetics, such as toothpastes, cleansers and antiperspirants. Suspected endocrine disrupter and may contribute to antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Harmful to fish and other wildlife.
Going green has never been easier. Be inspired at greenquinte.com
7
wellness
Black River Retreat.
A Premium Woodland Resort.
Written by Trevor Telford
A sense of calm envelops your soul as you travel up the tree-lined laneway approaching the Black River Retreat in Tweed, Ontario. Nestled in the heart of a woodland paradise, the natural energy of trees, water, rocks and minerals provide the backdrop for a truly tranquil and relaxing getaway. Catering to just one couple at a time, the Black River Retreat provides couples the unique opportunity to escape from the stresses of their life in complete privacy, while enjoying all of the amenities dreamed of at a premium woodland resort.
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wellness An essential ingredient to your romantic getaway, dining at the Black River Retreat is a gourmet delight and a feast for both the eye and palate. Sitting in an exquisitely carved, six foot tall king chair and dining on a delectable dinner of Cornish Game Hen, candle light dances around you as your inner “foodie” moans with delight. Overlooking the flowing river while savoring a succulent dinner, you are afforded complete privacy to relax and leisurely enjoy the romance of conversation with the one you love.
Strolling through six acres of private forest trails, the serenity of nature stimulates your senses. Winding paths guide you past outcroppings of moss covered rocks, and the natural scent of trees and earth stimulate you as rays of sunlight filter through the overhead canopy of leaves. The gurgling of water rushing over rocks guides you through the trails and along the private tranquility of the retreats namesake, the Black River. Kayaks sit in wait of exploration of the kilometres of quiet waterway, and you begin to contemplate an afternoon of paddling and picnicking. Muskoka chairs overlooking the river beckon you to sit down, put your feet up, and feel the tension and stress drain from your body. Reaching for the hand of the one you love, a smile spreads across your face, as you both are lost in peace and harmony.
Following the pathway leading to the suite, there is a sense of balance with nature as the carefully designed landscaping blends with the natural surroundings. Steps up from your private deck, a cedar hot tub rests atop an outcropping of rock with a backdrop of pine trees and a view of the peacefully flowing river. Thoughts inevitably drift to an evening spent immersed in warm bubbling water, gazing into the star filled nighttime sky. A private entrance opens to your suites sitting room, where the understated opulence of the décor flows with the log construction, creating a seamless transition from the outdoors in. The stone fireplace blends harmoniously with the log furniture, providing a romantic backdrop for curling up in front of the fire and sharing quiet time together. Stepping up into the bedroom, a big handcrafted log bed with its abundance of furry pillows blends with the indoor gardens, creating the perfect atmosphere for woodland romance. The luxurious en-suite retains the natural feel of the retreat with its blend of natural stone and wood. Highlighted by the oversized travertine shower there is an unmistakable atmosphere of relaxed indulgence.
A natural paradise, the Black River Retreat transitions magically with the seasons, and each turn of the calendar page offers a new adventure. Snow shoeing through the forest in the winter, kayaking along the secluded river in the summer, exploring the explosion of fresh flora in the spring, and roaring bonfires in the fall, each season offers a unique and exciting reason to getaway for a couple of days and relax with the one you love in peace and tranquility.
A destination for intimate “woodland weddings”, the Black River Retreat accommodates wedding ceremonies and receptions for 60 of your most cherished friends and loved ones. Ceremonies are held at a variety of breathtaking vistas throughout the property, providing memories to last a lifetime. While beginning in the marquis tent, wedding receptions inevitably stretch out to the entertaining panorama overlooking the river. Whether mingling around the bonfire, sitting under the pergola, or enjoying the evening at the river bank your guests will have a cherished memory of your special day.
The Black River Retreat … Your Woodland Getaway Awaits! Black River Retreat
•
www.BrrTweed.com
•
info@BrrTweed.com
•
(613) 243-7711
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wellness
.......................................................................... Guiding Your Thoughts and Feelings
The Laws of Attraction
.......................................................................... Science tells us everything is made up of energy, including us. We’re vibrational beings living in a vibrational world -- small energy fields living in one big energy field. We consist of vibrating energy just like everything around us, and our thoughts and feelings act like magnets, drawing our experiences to us. Written by Alexandria Barker
Have you ever noticed how things you really hope won’t happen, often do? And when they do, it doesn’t really surprise you – in the back of your mind you knew they would. You’re just that unlucky. Or are you? Could it be you’re actually that powerful – that much in control of your life, that your attention to unwanted things have drawn them to you as surely as a magnet draws metal filings? What do you think would happen if you focused the same time and energy on things you want? The Law of Attraction, which states things of a similar vibration attract to each other, is a law of physics, like the Law of Gravity. It affects you whether you are aware of it and understand it, or not. It responds to your thoughts and feelings, bringing you more things of the same vibration.
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You literally attract yourself to the things you focus on the most, and the more emotion you attach to these thoughts, the quicker you draw its essence. You really are creating your own reality, and by gently guiding your thoughts and feelings, you can begin creating the kind of life you really want. I’ve seen people work with the Law of Attraction to heal their bodies, their relationships and their finances. I’ve done it myself, and you can too! You can live the happy, healthy, prosperous life you were meant to live, starting where you are right now. Your thoughts are like powerful magnets that attract other thoughts. In fact, these thoughts attract so powerfully that you only have to hold a thought for 16 seconds and the Law of Attraction will draw more thoughts of a similar nature to you. Hold it for just over a minute and you’ll begin drawing the essence of your thoughts to you.
This is a simple enough concept to grasp - the trick is, you must work with the Law of Attraction consciously, habitually, in order to get the results you want. A good place to begin is to nurture an attitude of gratitude; focus more on what’s currently working in your life, rather than dwelling on what isn’t. It helps to remember that you aren’t really after the thing you think you want. You want the end result – the feeling you believe you’ll have when it materializes in your life. The irony is, by feeling the feeling before the manifestation, you’ll open the vibrational doors to let it in. Use your beautiful mind to dwell in possibilities, bask in the emotions you believe the ‘thing’ will bring, As Einstein said, “Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.” To get started, I invite you to visit http://AlexandriaBarker.com and download my free audio book Wishful Thanking; 7 Simple Steps to Abundance.
awareness
.......................................................................... Epilepsy, the misunderstood condition
The Facts
.......................................................................... Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that affects over 300,000 Canadians. It is characterized by recurrent seizures which occur when the normal electrical balance in the brain is disrupted. A seizure may be in the form of a blank stare, muscle spasms, uncontrolled movements, altered awareness, odd sensations, or a convulsion. In most cases, the cause of epilepsy is unknown. According to Epilepsy Ontario, while 1 in 100 Canadians have epilepsy, 1 in 10 people will have a seizure in their life time, making it important for everyone to have a basic understanding of seizure first aid. It’s important to remain calm when with someone who is having a seizure. It may appear frightening, but a seizure usually lasts only a few minutes and generally does not require medical attention.
Show your support for those living with epilepsy by wearing purple on March 26th, the international day of Epilepsy Awareness
Seizure First Aid For Convulsive Seizures • Time the seizure • Place something soft under the head, and clear the area of any items that may injure the person • Do not restrain the person • Do not put anything in the person’s mouth • As the seizure subsides, roll the person on their side • Talk gently to the person and provide reassurance as they recover from the seizure For a non-convulsive seizure (such as a blank stare, or aimless wandering), simply make sure the individual is safe in their surroundings.
When to call 911 Seizures are typically not medical emergencies, unless: • The seizure lasts for more than 5 minutes or repeats without full recovery between seizures • The person is injured, pregnant, or has diabetes • You do not know the person, or it is the individual’s first seizure
Contributed by Susan Harrison, Executive Director, Epilepsy & Seizure Disorder Resource Centre of Southeastern Ontario
Epilepsy Facts • There are many different types of seizures, both convulsive and non convulsive. • Epilepsy can affect individuals of any age • Epilepsy is most commonly treated with medication, which stops seizures for 60-70% of individuals. Epilepsy is the second most common neurological disorder in Canada, yet remains a frequently misunderstood condition. Many Canadians living with epilepsy experience social isolation, work barriers and relationship issues, according to a survey titled; The Impact of Epilepsy on Canadians, conducted in 2011 by Leger Marketing. Stigma, discrimination and a lack of awareness about epilepsy are cited as key challenges faced by those with epilepsy.
Epilepsy Resource Centre www.epilepsyresource.org 613-542-6222
Experience the relaxation of Reiki!
Reiki relieves pain and stress, boosting creativity and intuition while it heals your body, mind & spirit.
Revive with Reiki today!
I offer treatments as well as a powerful Reiki Training certificate program.
Contact Reiki Master/Life Enhancement Coach Alexandria Barker at 613.475.3867 www.alexandriabarker.com
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healthy eating
..........................................................................
Tossing and Turning? Try These Super Foods for Sleep
.......................................................................... magnesium are legumes and seeds, dark leafy green vegetables, wheat bran, almonds, cashews, blackstrap molasses, brewer’s yeast, and whole grains.
Move tea time later in the day:
Written by Dr. Natasha Turner N.D.
If you find yourself popping sleeping pills and still tossing and turning all night, you may want to look at a few things you can add into your diet that will help you hit the hay for a deeper, longer sleep.
Allow your sweet tooth to help you sleep:
Who says we can’t indulge a little and improve our health at the same time? Chocolate contains tryptophan and the brain chemical phenylethylamine known to promote our feelings of attraction, excitement and love. It’s also one of the richest dietary sources of magnesium, which is a natural sedative. If you prefer homemade, unsweetened hot chocolate than you will be pleased to hear that cocoa powder provides almost 500mg of magnesium per 100 gram serving. Other foods rich in
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There are few sleep superstars out there when it comes to tea. The next time you feel ramped up at night, instead of calm and relax, try a cup of lemon balm tea, sage, chamomile or valerian tea. Or, take a trip to your local tea store and get a variety of teas. Opt for the fresh herbs and a tea infuser for a more potent blend. Steep for 5-10 minutes and add a dash of milk if desired, sit back and enjoy. Consume 30 min – 1 hour before desired bedtime.
Go nuts for melatonin:
Like seeds, certain nuts will not only help balance your blood sugar levels but are also high in both melatonin and tryptophan. Research from the University of Texas Health Science Center found that walnuts are a great source of melatonin Melatonin not only improves our sleep but it also offers antioxidant protection. So walnuts just might be your secret weapon against sleeplessness nights, as well as cancer, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and cardiovascular illness.
The right type of juice:
If you have seen the rows of tart cherry juice popping up in your local grocery store, there’s a good reason why. In one study published in Natural Medicine Journal participants drank 30ml of Montmorency cherry juice 30 minutes after waking and 30 minutes before their evening meal, thereby boosting their exogenous melatonin intake by 85mcg/day. The results? There were significant increases in time in bed, total sleep time, and sleep efficiency total with cherry juice supplementation. I recommend drinking ½ - 1 cup an hour before bedtime for best results.
Pack in some protein before bed:
Carbohydrate-rich snacks such as breads, cereals, muffins, cookies or other baked goods prompt a shortterm spike in blood sugar, followed by a sugar crash later on. When blood sugar drops, adrenalin, glucagon, cortisol and growth hormone are released to regulate blood glucose levels. These hormones can stimulate the brain, causing you to awaken and possibly stay awake. Try to avoid eating for at least two hours before going to bed. A high protein snack such as Greek yogurt or a protein smoothie with a few nuts and berries will provide a source of tryptophan while the sugars from the fruit may help the tryptophan reach your brain and take effect more readily.
healthy eating
..........................................................................
The Gluten-Free Diet Craze Is following a gluten free diet a good weight loss approach?
.......................................................................... What is gluten?
Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat, rye, and barley that gives food products a chewy texture and will form a gel when combined with liquid in the gut slowing digestion time. Popular foods containing gluten include: bread, pasta, pizza dough, baked goods, and some alcohols. It can act as a binder and stabilizing agent in foods like hot dogs, sausages, pasta sauces, gravy, soup, soy sauce, ketchup, and even ice cream. Food labels may claim to be wheat free, but this does not rule out that the product is gluten free.
How do I know if I have a gluten allergy or sensitivity?
Many people will not be able to tell if they have a gluten intolerance or not. You may have experienced bloating, gas, nausea, heartburn and diarrhea, or even skin rashes and irritations following the consumption of gluten containing meal or food product. This does not necessarily mean you have an allergy or even sensitivity unless you can further diagnose the problem. Eating gluten-containing foods on there own may allow you to self diagnose if you feel better avoiding gluten all together. It can be a challenge however, attributing minor sensitivities to one food simply by elimination. In this case seek your doctor’s advice as celiac testing or food allergy testing with blood work may be needed.
Should I be on a gluten-free diet?
Not a quick and easy answer, but it depends on your reasoning. Are you doing this for health reasons? Weight loss? Or do you have a genuinely bad experience after eating gluten? Eliminating gluten may not be the healthier choice as it does have positive benefits for improving digestion and absorption of nutrients after eating. For me it simply comes down to the source. Is the food source of the gluten a natural and non-GMO product? In that instance I would say that eating some organic flaxseed bread could be good for your health. Opting to follow a glutenfree diet will not affect your health in a negative way as nutrients found in gluten containing foods are present in many other foods. Not everyone will need to make it necessary to eliminate gluten from their diet in order to lose weight, but most North Americans consume too many starchy carbohydrate foods on a daily basis and not enough fresh fruits and vegetables. There may be little scientific research around gluten and weight loss at this point, but from a holistic diet approach reducing gluten and eating more fresh produce will dramatically change your overall well-being and likely lead to better, more consistent weight loss.
Written by Trevor Degen, B.A.Sc, CISSN
Simply avoiding foods like bread, pasta, and baked goods your left looking for sustenance somewhere else. Consuming more lean meats, healthy fats, fresh fruits and veggies usually fulfills that starchy gluten void. Gluten itself may have become the scapegoat with people looking to eliminate it without knowing why. The gluten-free diet can be used as an effective weight loss approach, but is not necessary unless you have an intolerance to gluten. Going gluten reduced is a more viable option; it will generally force you to consume more fruits, lean meats, healthy fats, and most importantly the green vegetables. This will be what helps you to feel more energized and lose fat at the same time. trevor@theonestore.com www.theonestore.com
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fitness
..........................................................................
Partner Fitness at the YMCA
..........................................................................
1.
Amanda Boldrick, YMCA Fitness & Health Manager (7yrs) Alan Graves, YMCA Fitness Instructor & Personal Trainer (3 yrs)
Back-to-back Squat with Ball Pass
With your partner, stand facing away from each other at a distance that you can squat and bend without bumping your partner. You will hand the ball off to the partner overhead, after which your partner will squat down and pass the ball back to you between the legs. Do this for 10-15 repetitions, and then switch roles.
2.
Lunge with Ball Exchange
3.
Medicine Ball Slam Pass
Starting in a standing position facing your partner, Holding the ball at chest height, you will perform a forward lunge, while your partner performs a reverse lunge with the opposite leg ready to receive the pass. Return to a standing position, and repeat 20-30 times.
Starting in a standing position facing your partner at least 5 feet away, you will hold the medicine ball overhead and explosively throw it towards the ground, causing it to bounce up to your partner. The role will then reverse and your partner will bounce the ball back to you. Repeat 20 times.
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fitness
.......................................................................... Grab a friend and share in the fitness fun with these six partner exercises
..........................................................................
4.
Wheelbarrow Push-up to Shrug
Holding your partner’s ankles, your partner will maintain a straight back, keep the core engaged, tight, and slowly lower your partner down as close to the ground as possible. Pressing through the hands; push back up into a plank position. You will then shrug your shoulders up towards the ears while maintaining straight arms and then back into a relaxed position. Repeat 10-15 times and then switch positions.
5.
Twist Pass
6.
Sit-up Oblique Patty Cake
Both partners will sit next to each other at arms distance apart. Keep the back straight and chest pressed forward, each partner will lean slightly back. Easier method will involve keeping the heels of your feet placed on the ground. Harder method will involve lifting your feet off of the ground and holding that position. Pick the one that is most comfortable for the desired repetitions. Starting with the medicine ball to the side opposite your partner, twist towards the center. Your partner will grab the ball and twists to their other side, pausing and then twisting back to the center. Repeat the exchange 20-30 times.
Both partners will lie next to each other, in a head to toe formation, with feet planted on the floor and knees bent. Using the outside hand, each partner will breathe out and engage their core until they are lifted off of the ground -- at which point you twist and clap your partner’s hand. Turning back to neutral position, slowly lower yourself back to the starting position while keeping the core engaged. Repeat 10-15 times, and then switch positions to work the other side. 15
fitness
STRENGTH
.......................................................................... Strength, Core and More
Written by Camden Maracle, YMCA Fitness Instructor for 2 years
at the YMCA
Featured Exercise: Alternating Shoulder Touch Plank
..........................................................................
How to do it
AQUA BOOT CAMP
CORE
Written by Jake Grierson, YMCA Head Lifeguard – Lead Instructor at the YMCA for 2 years
Written by Karen Smith, C.P.T. A YMCA instructor for 3 years
Featured Exercise: Aqua Boot Camp
The V-Sit is a great exercise to build core strength. Also called ‘Boat Pose” in yoga, the V-Sit can be done in motion or as a static exercise and at different intensity levels.
This move uses all the muscles in the body for stabilization and can be modified to decrease the challenge by performing it from the knees. Place hands directly under the shoulders and bring your body into a plank position ensuring the body is straight. Plank may be performed from toes or the knees. Lift one hand and tap the opposite shoulder and then place back down to the floor. Repeat with the other hand. Keep alternating shoulder taps until muscles are fatigued or try a set of 20 taps and repeat for 2 more sets.
This boot camp is a refreshing new way to push your body to its limit. Aqua Boot Camp gives you the opportunity to work hard while still providing the benefits of low impact in the water. This is NOT your typical aqua fitness class! The intensity is much higher and harder partnering strength exercises with swimming drills in both the shallow and deep water.
How to do it
For those who believe water doesn’t provide the same difficulty as a land class, we challenge you to give it a try.
Featured Exercise: Squat Jump
This plyometric move is a great exercise to build strength and agility in the lower body muscles and provides a high intensity cardiovascular workout when repetitions are performed. This exercise can be modified to decrease challenge by keeping toes in contact with floor and lifting only the heels instead of feet leaving the floor completely.
How to do it
Begin by assuming a squat position. Ensuring knees stay behind toes, sink deep into the squat and then spring up in to the air as high as you can. Be sure to bend your knees as you land to absorb the impact of the landing. Perform as many reps as you can or try a set of 5 and repeat for 2 more sets.
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DO YOU have what it takes for Aqua Boot Camp? Join us for a class to find out!
Featured exercise: V-Sit!
How to do it
Sit on the floor with your knees bent, hold the back of your knees and lift the feet off the floor until you find balance. You can increase the intensity by releasing the bent knees and float the hands, or by straightening the legs into the full V-Sit. Breathe deeply while holding the position for as long as you can. Remember to engage the muscles at the waist, pulling them in towards the naval. To add motion to this exercise, try pulling the knees in and out from the chest, bending then straightening the legs. Do a set of 10, rest then repeat for 2 more sets.
fitness
.......................................................................... Five reasons to Conquer The Grapes of Wrath Extreme PEC Run
.......................................................................... Extreme runs are popping up everywhere and this fall, Prince Edward County will play host to its own home grown extreme run, The Grapes of Wrath. Grapes of Wrath is a 7km extreme run to be held on September 13th, 2014 and hosted on the scenic twenty-two acre site of Hillier Creek Estates Winery. Billing for the event promises “there will be mud, there will be pain, and you’ll never be the same.” Who’s crafting the pain you ask? Well, the course is designed and built by Canadian Military volunteers and promises to include a not so traditional version of a winery grape stomp. Engineers and enlisted personal have volunteered their personal time to craft obstacles similar to a basic training regimen that promises to test the strength and endurance of even the toughest athletes. “It’s just such a perfect setting for a race like this” says Kemp Stewart, owner of Hillier Creek Winery and Honorary Colonel of CFB Trenton. “We’ve been able to use the pre-existing natural landscape to our advantage. Hillier Creek itself is an obstacle, the winery is set on a serious degree slope, and the military volunteers have designed some formidable challenges”. So why would anyone put themselves through an afternoon of mud and pain you ask? Here are five good reasons.
01
Bragging rights, dog tags, a t-shirt and a grape stomp. The course is not timed like many mudder events. Grapes is all about personal achievement and team work. Unlike some extreme events, Grapes is about physical strength, agility and determination. No fire or electric shock to send you to hospital, just good old fashioned stamina required. Plus, you can buy a burpie buyout. Similar to a mulligan in Golf, you can buy two burpie buyouts which you may or may not use throughout the run. No point running at a wall 20 times. If you can’t get over it, you can burpie around it. Grapes is about ingenuity not just brawn!
02
Camaraderie. Like they say in the forces “no man is left behind”. To make it through this course, you have to work together. Teams of 2 to 8 people can register or you can run solo, but even as a solo runner, there will be moments through the race where you’ll need the help of others. It might be to get up over the vertical walls, or to get out of a sticky situation. Just keep an eye out for each other, leave no one behind and by the end you’ll have new friends at the after party.
03
Best Instagram pictures, ever. In our world of Social Media, it’s pretty much a given that if there’s not a picture, it didn’t happen. If nothing else, Grapes promises you the best mud covered, tough faced, fun loving selfies.
Written by Amy Doyle, Manager, Hastings-Prince Edward Counties & Brighton Community Office at Canadian Cancer Society
04
A weekend in Prince Edward County! Prince Edward County is one of Ontario’s award winning getaway areas. With miles of sandy beaches, wineries to rival Niagara, food, fun and festivals galore, you will want to book a B&B or local hotel and plan to spend the weekend. Checkout www. prince-edward-county.com to start planning your adventure!
05
Support people living with cancer. All funds raised from Grapes of Wrath goes to support people living with cancer in our communities. The local Canadian Cancer Society has partnered with Trenton and Picton hospital foundations and your entrance fee, pledges and all Grapes merchandise purchased at the event support these three local charities. What a fabulous way to celebrate the cancer fighting properties of fitness! But perhaps the very the best reason to register for Grapes of Wrath today is because you can! www.cancer.ca/grapesofwrathpec
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Queens fitness
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Get Back in the Game ................................... YMCA Membership Join today and enjoy all the benefits of the YMCA ALL NEW Cross-Trainers, Treadmills with Personal Entertainment Systems NEW Free Weights, NEW Selectorized Weight Machines, Fitness Classes and Aquafit Classes and more changes coming in 2013 including: • 8 windows on the track level • new gym flooring and basketball backboards • rebuilt saunas • Membership Desk completely redesigned • improvements made to the areas leading to childcare • exterior painting and signage upgrades Exciting times ahead in 2013 Join as a family; Adults receive all of the above and children receive access to the YMCA plus swim lessons and 2 dry land programs per 12 week session For more information contact one of our Membership Branches or visit our website www.ymcaofceo.ca
YMCA of Central East Ontario
Belleville and Quinte Region YMCA of Central East Ontario Belleville Branch 433and Victoria Avenue Region Belleville Quinte Belleville, Ontario K8N 2G1 Tel. 613 966-9622 • Fax 6131 962-9247 City of Quinte West Branch 50 Monogram Place Trenton, Ontario K8V 5P8 Tel. 613 394-9622 • Fax 613 394-8223
Belleville Branch 433 Victoria Avenue Belleville, Ontario K8N 2G1 Tel. 613 966-9622 Fax 6131 962-9247 City of Quinte West Branch 50 Monogram Place Trenton, Ontario K8V 5P8 Tel. 613 394-9622 Fax 613 394-8223 Rednersville Road & Hwy 62 www.thedressingroombelleville.ca
Written by Tiffany Bambrick, Queens University C.P.T.
Sunny days are one of the best motivators of physical activity. It is not uncommon to find those inspired by sunshine pushing too much too soon and too fast. The result—injury! If you have been in hibernation this past winter, spring can often bring with it aches, strains and pains as you try to get yourself in outdoor shape. Now is a good time to get ready for the wonderful outdoor activities that Kingston will be serving up all summer long. Starting early and progressing gradually is the way to avoid setbacks and ensure you stay injury free all summer long. When you do come across a nagging pain or full-blown injury, stop, assess and repair so you can restart with a new plan. For prevention or repair, Athletic Therapists can be a vital piece of your fitness plan. They are highly trained professionals who specialize in the care of active individuals. They can provide a continuum of care, including injury prevention, immediate care, injury assessment and rehabilitation. All sessions are individualized to meet your specific needs and depending on your concern, a typical athletic therapy session will work on improving range of motion, proprioception and balance, increasing strength, decreasing pain, improving functional motor patterns particular to your work or play, and much more. You will receive exercises and routines that you can do at home to speed up your recovery. Some of the modalities utilized by an Athletic Therapist can include Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS),
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Therapeutic and Deep Tissue Massage or Trigger Point Release. If you are concerned about the cost, athletic therapy is covered by many insurance companies. Don’t let an injury keep you on the sidelines this season. Get, and stay, in shape to play with the help of an Athletic Therapist and you’ll have fun all summer long. Queen’s Therapy Zone is open to the public and can help you with all your athletic therapy and massage therapy needs. To book an appointment go to www.gogaelsgo. com/therapy or call 613-533-6000, ext 74778.
bring this coupon for your discount entry of $5
For you, our
valued reader! Saturday April 5th, 2014 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre, Bay of Quinte Region, Ontario
www.hlnow.ca
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265 Cannifton Road foR moRe infoRmation Call 613-966-4632 oR visit www.quintespoRtsandwellnessCentRe.Ca
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Spring tends to be a much-awaited season for us; it is the time of year for renewals and resolutions - as we push ahead in a new year. It is the time when the snow begins to melt, giving way to the growth of flora; creating a refreshing sea of green everywhere you look. Fauna begins to flourish as well. Birds migrate back to build nests and lay eggs, and other critters bring their little ones into the world. Spring tends to be the time of year where we return to our more normal regimes of physical fitness including self-maintenance and personal expression. We shed the layers of winter gear in hopes of increasingly warmer days; and as always, the less enjoyed but essential “cloudy with chance of showers” type of days.
Doing away with the chunky knits and long pants means the beginning of exposing more and more of your skin to the elements. The shock of seasonal changes can at times be extreme on your skin, what was once dry and flaky is now oily and blemish prone. Regardless of the symptoms your skin may be showcasing, it is trying to tell you that it is undernourished and would benefit from a detox. Maybe even in need of a more holistic approach. Enter Tea Forté Skin-Smart collection - a spa day in a cup. Each tea is blended with the highest quality plant-based antioxidants to refine your skin from the inside out. Now for the exterior and a more topical approach, the term “serum” has been used in the beauty industry to describe various cosmetic/skincare manufacturers’ self-proclaimed miracle products. The Serious Serum is a miracle product worth trying. Originally created to sooth skin post wax, this product can actually improve the texture and condition of your skin all over your body, leaving your skin silky smooth. It can even heal zits quicker; diminish redness and correct discoloration with application of this product to your entire face. teaforte.com seriousserum.com
Here are a few things to ensure there is a spring in your step as you maintain a healthy body and general wellbeing this season.
Your Hair
With the change from winter to spring you’ll need to consider adjusting your hair care routine. You may have previously needed deep conditioning and treatments for your dehydrated locks, but with the increased humidity and temperatures that come with spring you should cut back or wean yourself off completely. But remember that regardless of the season it is best to wash your hair only every couple of days so not to stress the scalp, stripping it of its natural oils and pressuring it into excessive oil production. On the days
products in between shampooing it is best to use a dry shampoo to address any oiliness or loss of volume. Make your hairstyle last longer day-to-day with Bumble and Bumble new dry shampoo solution that coincidently adds volume with Prêt-à-Powder. It is good to note that dry shampoo can actually come in powder form or aerosol like Ojon full detox™ rub-out™ dry cleansing spray that truthfully requires little to no rubbing out or blending into your hair (may vary according to hair colour). It’s personal preference really, but regardless, dry shampoo can be a time saver when you don’t have time to hop in the shower. It’s quick, it’s easy and most dry shampoo products smell like you could eat them; your hair will thank you.
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four unique blends. If you enjoy fruit, enjoy it on the go with GoGo SqueeZ in six different pouches made from 100% fruit, a great source of iron. Or if you prefer meatier snacking options like jerky, Krave Jerky comes in 8 mouth-watering seasonings; highprotein, low calorie, no nitrates and no artificial flavours in turkey, beef or pork jerky. The Black Cherry Barbeque Pork Jerky is my all time favourite! Bored of the same old, same old dry, barely palatable energy bars, then try LÄRABAR. These delectable energy bars come in a more than 20 kinds, with most bars consisting of less than nine great for you ingredients. Be sure to try the Coconut Cream.
Helping you to see and be seen
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Spring iS here.
Your Mind
Your Body
Back to the grind - the pace of work, school, home life and everything in between quickens when we can actually see the ground and grass beneath our feet. Whether it’s your own activities that have you on the move, or that of your family’s, it is important to remember to eat healthy when you’re on the go. So why not try some exciting products that are new to the market when you want to ingest something healthy! Old or young, we can all enjoy the taste and the many health benefits of peanut butter. This protein rich spread can boost energy, your immune system and extend the health of your heart. Try the PB Crave peanut butter line up, they have successfully turned peanut butter on its head by mixing gluten and cholesterol-free peanut butter with cookie dough for the “Cookie Nookie” jar in one of their
With the increased level of physical activity that comes with better weather, it is important to ensure that you getting a sufficient amount of sleep nightly to repair both your body and brain. A lack of sleep can leave us drowsy with impaired memory and lack of concentration towards our daily responsibilities. Some nights due to stress or unknown reasons sleep may not come so easily to some of us. A natural alternative to sleep aid medications is the This Works deep sleep pillow spray, consisting of true lavender from Provence, patchouli, vertivert and chamomile. Keeping your mind sharp can be as easy as taking two softgels twice daily of the Genuine Health omega3+ think supplements with food. It is said that omega-3 fatty acids are an essential for the proper maintenance of your brain functionality. It is not always easy to get the required amount of Omega-3 from solely our diet, so do yourself a kindness and add an omega-3 supplement to your life. thisworks.com genuinehealth.com
protect your eyes with sunglasses and update your eyewear this season! Whether it’s for fun, dress or casual we have something for everyone. Update your everyday look today! • Full UV Protection • Prescription and non-prescription sunglasses
150 Sidney Street, Belleville, Ontario 613-968-8846 inovaopticians.com
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CiatĂŠ Caviar Manicure Luxe - Lustre Three-dimensional nail kit Available at ciate.co.uk or sephora.com
Philips Sonicare DiamondClean toothbrush Includes innovative glass charging station and portable travel case Visit philips.ca to find a retailer near you
Old Navy Sheath Eyelet Dress Fun, flirty and versatile, can be dressed up or dressed down Available at Old Navy and oldnavy.ca
Red Apple Lipstick Rallye Balm + Exfoliate Duo Gluten and paraben-free lipstick products Available at redapplelipstick.com
Korres Pomegranate Toner For oily and combination skin Available at select Shoppers Drug Mart locations or korres.ca
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Jones New York Tweed Jacket A classic, worthy of every wardrobe Available at Hudson's Bay and thebay.com
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Panda Sunglasses – Victoria (in natural) All frames are handcrafted from sustainable bamboo, available in black, brown or natural Available at wearpanda.com
New Balance Women’s 890V4 in Blue with Pink Light-weight with great cushioning for a highly enjoyable run Visit newbalance.ca to find a retailer near you
Belkin WeMo Insight Switch Track the consumption of your home electronics and the approximate cost on your next hydro bill Available at belkin.com
Parrot Flower Power Wireless Plant Monitor Never forget to water the household plant again Visit parrot.com to find a retailer near you
Bissell SpotClean Portable Carpet Cleaner Easy to use and easy to store this mini machine is a must have Available at canada.bissell.com
Potting Shed Creations Garden-in-a-Pail – Mixed Herbs Grow your own countertop herb garden with basil, chives and parsley. Available at pottingshedcreations.com 23
spring health
................................... Preventing and Treating Allergies this Spring
................................... We take the time to get to know our customers Our pharmacists are here to help you reach your healthy living goals Consultations are FREE in person or by phone
Transferring prescriptions is easy: call us and we will take care of the rest! FREE PRESCRIPTION DELIVERY TO YOUR DOOR OVERNIGHT, ANYWHERE IN CANADA* (INCLUDING refrigerated items) *Restrictions apply, call store for details
DrugSmart Pharmacy Kingston (Queen’s University) 613-507-7775 Sydenham 613-376-3842 Peterborough 705-741-1646 www.drugsmartpharmacy.ca /drugsmart
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Dr. Kevin Dinsmore
Back & Neck Pain Headaches, Sciatica Custom Foot Orthotics Light Therapy Sports Related Injuries
613-967-8307
Massage Therapy
156 Bridge St E, Belleville kevindinsmore@cogeco.net www.drkevindinsmore.ca 24
Written by Suzanne Kerr, B.A, B.Ed, B.Sc(Pharm), RPh
The warm weather is finally on its way, and with it seasonal allergic rhinitis (allergies) for many people. Allergies happen when certain cells in the immune system release chemicals that cause unpleasant symptoms including runny nose, watery eyes and itchy palate. Fortunately, most mild to moderate allergy symptoms are easily treated using medicine available at the pharmacy without a prescription. Natural saline rinses provide excellent drug-free relief for an itchy, runny nose. Cool compresses on the eyes can help with itching too. Antihistamine tablets are the most common type of drug treatment for more bothersome allergy symptoms. These fall into “1st generation”(diphenhydramine/ Benadryl, for example) or the newer “2nd generation” (loratidine/Claritin, desloratidine/Aerius, cetirizine/ Reactine and fexofenadine/Allegra). No major study shows superiority of one particular brand, but people often report that one works better for them than another. A good strategy is to try a small box of one type and, if you’re not too impressed, try a different kind. One word of caution: the 1st generation antihistamines cause side effects such as drowsiness and dry mouth that are virtually nonexistent with the 2nd generation antihistamines. Versions labeled “D” or that claim to deal with nasal congestion usually have added pseudoephedrine. This is a mild stimulant that does relieve congestion but can interfere with sleep and interact with certain medications.
Over-the-counter nasal sprays are best avoided unless you need immediate relief in order to sleep or take an airplane. Using decongestant sprays for more than a few days can cause the congestion to become worse in the long run. To alleviate itchy, watery eyes there are many brands of topical drops. A word of advice: a number of these contain only an ingredient to treat the redness in the eye and not the actual cause of the allergy. One product, Cromolyn, is excellent for preventing allergies. The catch is, that it only works if applied frequently (around 4 times daily) and started at least a few days prior to allergen exposure. If you’re not sure what to choose, just ask the pharmacist for advice. He or she can help choose the best remedy for your symptoms while avoiding drug interactions and unwanted side effects. If symptoms do not respond to nonprescription drugs they should be treated by a physician. With that said, I hope that everyone enjoys their time outside this spring.
After the past winter, we truly deserve it!
BGHF
................................... Upping the Ante for Cancer Care
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In a perfect world there would be no cancer. But that’s not the world we live in. Cancer, in all of its forms, continues to be one of humanity’s worst enemies. Too often, it strikes people we know. But there is encouraging news. New treatments are increasing survival rates and improving the quality of life of cancer patients. New technology is leading to earlier diagnosis, and more accurate tracking allows treatments to be adjusted quickly to ensure maximum effectiveness. Quinte Health Care is at the forefront of local cancer care and state-ofthe-art technologies are an essential part of our fight against cancer. Better, faster, more accurate medical equipment is available now. With it, the quality of care we provide is better, faster and more accurate. The Belleville General Hospital Foundation is stepping up to work with the people of Quinte to seize the opportunity for QHC to be at cutting edge of community based cancer care. We’ve just launched Phase II of the Together, We’re Better campaign to raise $7 million to fund new equipment, wherever it is needed in the hospital, to diagnose, treat and track cancer. In 2013, the Canadian Cancer Society estimated that more than 500 Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer every day. In many cases, survival rates depend on early diagnosis – which is why we strive to identify cancer and prepare a treatment strategy as fast as possible. Any delay in a cancer diagnosis is unacceptable.
Written by Drew Brown, Executive Director, Belleville General Hospital Foundation
The most urgently required equipment is used at the very earliest stage of cancer identification. A Tissue Processor is used to prepare tissue samples for analysis. Our existing processor is almost 10 years old and in need of immediate replacement. Advances in technology make new processors more efficient, faster and less expensive to operate. After the tissue processor has done its work, the sample is placed in a Slide Stainer where it is coloured so it can be examined by a Pathologist to determine if there is a malignancy. Our current stainer is over 12 years old and we can no longer get parts for it. Without it we cannot make a diagnosis. Will we ever live in a world without cancer? Perhaps. Not soon, but the day will undoubtedly come. Until then, we can make a difference for family and friends by ensuring they receive the best care possible – by putting the best available equipment in the hands of the experts at QHC. Proving once more that, Together, We’re Better. PS: In recognition of the first $1 million raised for the campaign, we will be saluting Dr. Douglas A. MacIntosh by naming the Oncology Clinic in his honour. Dr. MacIntosh is the man who started chemotherapy treatments in a hallway at Belleville General many years ago. 25
family strategies
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Our Story
Are You Financially Prepared for a Critical Illness?
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Written by Daniella Barsotti
As a financial advisor, my husband’s duty is to protect his clients and their families against financial hardship in the event of illness or death. As his Licensed Advisor Assistant, we come across three kinds of people; those who believe in insurance, those who don’t and those who want it for free. Regardless of whom you are, our story will certainly make you think of yourselves in our situation. I’m a tough mother. I don’t quit or scare easily and while I have come to accept and appreciate our life, I naively or arrogantly believed that nothing bigger than our son’s autism would come our way - until the lump. The lump appeared on Tom’s right thigh and albeit small, it was rock hard and worrisome. The lumps I’d witnessed had taken people to their graves, most recently, my dear dad. So, off we went to the doctor who convinced Tom it was a lipoma, but I wasn’t convinced. The second doctor agreed with the first, however I wanted to probe further because it was slowly becoming larger. Cutting to the chase, it was NOT a lipoma. The ultrasound report led to an MRI that showed that it was vascular and as we sat listening to what this could mean. I held my breath and tried to be brave. We set off hand in hand, appointment to appointment, with a trump card that allowed us to remain calm and
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positive - we are both covered by Critical Illness Insurance. I had Tom’s results forwarded to the Best Doctors Program exclusive to persons with our coverage. Soon, we had the names and contact information of two Ontario Specialists and one in the U.S.A. and in days, they liaised with Tom’s physician and discussed a course of action. None felt it was dangerous but to be sure it wasn’t cancerous, they wanted it removed and biopsied. For reassurance, I called a colleague who used his Critical Illness Insurance to help him fight cancer. Through the Best Doctors Program, he chose a cancer facility in the U.S.A. for his surgery and treatment and was back at work in eight months fully cured. Critical Illness Insurance allowed him to focus on conquering cancer. On his advice, we took a family vacation to Florida to put the lump out of our minds until Tom’s biopsy in mid-September. That day, I thought about the odds of it being cancerous. Worst case scenario, Tom was sick and we’d have a fight ahead of us. We would put up a damn good fight because his policy would give us more than enough money to take at least a year off work. We could go wherever and do whatever we needed to save him. A year where fighting for his life would be the priority and we would be able to fight privately, without financially burdening family, friends or strangers. The results came two weeks after the biopsy. During that time, we had the “In case I get sick and die” conversation. In 2002 upon our son’s diagnosis of Autism, we created a financial plan to secure the future of our family. We
ensured that our lifestyle would be maintained, our bills paid and there would be enough time for healing and sorting out our lives without rushing back to work or relying on financial help from others. Best of all, the money our insurance would yield will be tax and probate free. When you are young, you’re invincible. Bad things and sickness happen to other people. Then adult life happens and you learn quickly it can be raw, messy and painful. Life happened to us with our son’s autism and continues to happen. Age and experience have prepared us to take our “lumps” along the way. Our family doesn’t work without Tom. He’s the love of my life and he is adored by our boys. I can’t imagine our lives without him and luckily, I don’t have to for a while. The lump was a benign fibrous tumor. Tom is healthy but I know illness does not discriminate and it comes to all of us. Our advice is simple - find a reputable insurance company with a Critical Illness Insurance Plan that covers at least twenty illnesses that will also give you your money back if you never make a claim during the duration of the policy. It’s a win, win situation. You get sick; you get a big cheque to fight for your life. You don’t get sick; you get your money back at the end of the policy. Critical Illness Insurance is a policy that pays you to LIVE – how can you lose? The only way you can lose is if you don’t have it. www.sunlife.ca/tom.james
family strategies
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Maturity Matters Assisting Adult Children and their Families in addressing all aspects of Elder Care
.......................................................................... Written by Lois Bastedo, Certified Professional Consultant on Aging
Question:
Determine the following:
I am very concerned about my father’s driving. What can I do to help?
• Identify your dad’s driving challenges – vision, reaction time, physical limitations. • Schedule a family doctor visit to check vision, hearing, cognition, medication dosages and /or combinations. • Get an evaluation by a driver rehabilitation specialist who can make specific recommendations for improvement. • The doctor may write to the provincial Ministry of Transport recommending that the license be revoked. With luck, this step may convince your dad to surrender his license and keys voluntarily. • Send a copy of the doctor’s letter to the Ministry and also to his auto insurer, who will cancel his policy.
Answer: One of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do was ask my Dad, who was 91 and palliative was to sign the transfer papers so we could sell his car. My Dad was never one to show emotion, so his tears will never be forgotten. It was his last stage of independence and he was signing it over. Research confirms that older drivers are involved in more accidents per kilometer driven, than their middleaged counterparts. Of course you want your dad to be independent as long as possible, and drive safely and confidently, but there are questions you must ask.
No one wants to treat a family member in this way, but you must keep in mind the liability and potential for harm to your parent and to others. It’s an unhappy role-reversal for you to do this to your father, so make sure you have the understanding and support of all family members, and give yourself credit for having the courage to love your dad so much. This information was provided by Pat M. Irwin, BA, AICB, CPCA, who is founder and president of Elder Care Canada. A single-source consulting firm for adult children and their families, addressing all aspects of elder care www.eldercarecanada.ca As a part of a designation as a Certified Professional Consultant on Aging, CPCA, Lois Bastedo help clients with everyday advice regarding aging.
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family strategies
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Taking Control of your Hearing Loss ..........................................................................
Written by Debra Wilson, M.Cl.Sc.,Aud (C), Registered CASLPO
“May is Speech and Hearing Month” is an annual opportunity for Audiologists and Speech- Language Pathologists to educate the public regarding the difficulties faced by those with communication barriers such as hearing loss, and speech and language disorders.
As an audiologist for 20 years, I have been privileged to assist my clients, both children and adults, with hearing loss. For children, undiscovered hearing loss, whether from birth or fluctuating hearing sensitivity from ear infections, can lead to delays in speech and language development, risk of educational failure, social isolation from peers and poor selfesteem. Unfortunately, US studies show a rise in hearing impairment among teenagers contributable to noise exposure. While some of my adult clients have developed hearing loss due to illness, the majority of adult population develops hearing loss slowly over time, often due to aging or noise exposure. According to Statistics Canada, over 1,000,000 Canadians have some degree of hearing loss, with the number of hearing impaired Canadians rising steadily following the ages of 35-44 with 25% of Canadians having hearing loss by age 75. Untreated hearing loss can cause stress in the family as the ability to communicate becomes more
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difficult, increase fatigue due to the strain of struggling to hear and, impeded one’s ability to perform one’s job. Many of my clients have reported limiting their social activities, including volunteer work, due to their inability to communicate or enjoy conversation across the table. Some have reported feeling isolated, lonely and depressed. Fortunately, hearing aids can greatly improve the quality of life for hearing impaired individuals. Hearing aids can make conversation easier to hear, improving communication and decreasing listener fatigue. Over the last 20 years, hearing aid technology has improved enormously and today’s digital hearing aids range greatly in terms of technology level and cost, enabling me to successfully fit more clients. If you are concerned that you or a loved one is experiencing a hearing loss, contact an audiologist to arrange a hearing test.
Your audiologist can determine if a hearing aid is necessary and start you down the path to better communication!
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healthy kids
.......................................................................... Movement and Rhythm for the Young Soul
An Andy Forgie Music Story
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Written by Stephen Petrick
Andy Forgie is not a trained medical doctor, mental health therapist or fitness instructor, but he does know a thing or two about how children can live a healthy lifestyle. The well-known Belleville-based entertainer has been performing for kids for nearly 30 years and he’s seen how the magic of music can help a young person’s development. “There’s a natural desire to move to a rhythm,” said Forgie. “Whether it’s something as simple as ‘patty cake’ or ‘head and shoulders, knees and toes’ there’s something about the marriage of movement and melody.
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As a musical storyteller, Andy’s warm voice and gentle humour turn each Concert into a campfire sing-song. Andy’s original recordings have been enjoyed throughout Ontario on CBC radio and nationwide on the History Channel’s “Sketches of Our Town”. He has worked with many of Canada’s top family performers including Sharon and Bram, The Polka Dot Door Stage Show and has recorded with the late Bob Homme, The Friendly Giant. “Children are fearless – they haven’t learned to be uptight yet. So when they get up to dance they just go. If you can harness that desire with music it’s great. They’re like a blank canvas, ready to explode.” Forgie has also been performing for school groups and at children’s events ever since he discovered the
genius of Raffi. He took his kids to see the iconic children’s musician perform at Centennial Secondary School in 1984. He was so impressed with Raffi’s songwriting, movement and ability to connect with kids that he re-invented his own career, then in transition following about 10 years of touring as a rock musician, most notably with the band Photograph. Forgie has since recorded two albums of children’s songs; My Stuff was released in 1996 and The Street I Live On came out in 1998. From his experience performing, Forgie believes that children tend to develop a love for music between ages two and five. After that attitudes towards music may differ between children – some will find it cooler than others. But he believes all kids can benefit from the leg stretching, arm raising and soul cleansing that comes from
healthy kids dancing and singing to a good tune. “The stimulus for imagination and for creativity comes from movement and rhythm,” he says. Forgie says he’s seen many toddlers develop a love for music that has carried them all the way into adulthood, explaining that one of his early fans went on to become a classical guitarist. He has also built a relationship with a local man with special needs, who gets excited at the sight of Forgie holding a guitar. These stories speak to music’s ability to connect people and build great memories. “It’s healthy,” Forgie says. “Whether it makes you want to draw a picture and stick it on the fridge, or pick up an instrument or whether you want to explore another aspect of music, it’s good for the brain and it’s wonderful for the soul. When you see people singing and dancing everybody’s always happy. “That’s something you can’t do and be unhappy.” It’s a great observation, made from someone who most recently was awarded with the “Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal of Honour” for contributions to our community, through music for children and the elderly. A well-deserved award for Andy. We all know that music is therapeutic,” Andy says with a wide smile. “It inspires.” www.andyforgie.com
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helping you make it perfect.
visit www.crckt.ca • email crckt@me.com
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healthy pets
.......................................................................... What is Lyme Disease in pets? .......................................................................... Written by Kristina Bennett, Veterinary Practitioner
What are the signs of Lyme disease? In dogs the diagnosis is not as easy as in humans. They do not show the characteristic “bulls eye” rash. Often the signs of Lyme disease are very similar to other diseases; dogs stop eating, have a shifting or generalized lameness, a high fever and are described as “walking on eggshells.” The sudden lameness can disappear and reoccur months later. Sometimes pets are infected for over a year before signs of the disease appear. How is Lyme disease treated? In dogs we treat the disease the same way humans are treated — with antibiotics. Often the diagnosis is made long after the animal has been bitten by the tick and it is not uncommon for the disease to reoccur. Therefore a prolonged course of antibiotic treatment is usually prescribed to completely eradicate the bacteria.
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Lyme disease is a bacterial disease transmitted by a few species of ticks to both humans and dogs. Last year in Ontario, there were 365 cases of Lyme disease diagnosed in dogs, many with exposure to the Belleville, Kingston and Thousand Islands areas.
How can we prevent Lyme disease? The key to prevention is to decrease the likelihood of exposure to ticks. Ticks are found in grassy, wooded and sandy areas. In this region of Ontario, they are especially predominant in Point Petre and the Thousand Islands. Dogs should be kept on trails when walked near wooded or tall grassy areas. Ticks find their way onto animals by climbing to the top of a leaf, blade of grass or short trees (especially cedar trees). They wait until their sensors detect an animal (or human) close by on which to crawl or drop. There are some products available that will kill ticks on dogs. They are applied topically once a month and are available from your veterinarian. There is also a safe and effective vaccine available to protect your dog from Lyme disease. You should discuss any questions you may have about the type or frequency of vaccination against Lyme disease with your veterinarian.
How do I remove a tick from my dog? Check over your pet thoroughly if it has been in a tick-infested area. The Deer Tick is relatively small but can expand to 5 – 10 times its size after a blood meal. If you find a tick moving on your pet, remove it and place it in alcohol. The tick has not fed and the chances of your dog contracting Lyme disease are very low. If you find a tick attached to your pet, grasp it with some tweezers or your fingernails and pull it straight out. Do not crush the tick; the contents of the tick contain the bacteria that cause Lyme disease, and this bacteria can pass through a wound or a cut on your skin! Removing the tick immediately upon seeing it is important because the disease is not transmitted to the dog until the tick has fed for about 12 hours.
healthy pets
.......................................................................... If Our Pets Could Speak Would our lives change if we followed what our pets are trying to teach us?
.......................................................................... Looking into the eyes of many animals, you can almost see their souls. If they’ve had a life of love and caring, it shows in their eyes. They look content and happy, they nuzzle up and give a lick or two. With a wellloved dog, the tail almost wags off their body. Your heart is warmed and you know that life was good. For 8 years I served as a cruelty agent with the OSPCA. I’ve looked into the eyes of a pet that has not had the attention they deserved and you can see that as well. They have consumed sadness and you can see the unfilled heart that is deep within. Many pets are purchased without the thought that this living thing is going to be around for years and that they require care, attention, expense and time. I’ve witnessed a dog tied to a tree or doghouse with little contact from their owners. The dog barks – why? Because he is lonely! The owner gets mad at the noise and yells or worse. All the dog wants is some time and love. My heart breaks, but as long as food and water is supplied, we cannot ask for any legal force to step in. We cannot force someone to love their pet. I’ve also been witness to a dog who was ignored, beaten, practically starved and when the owner approached, the dog began licking the hand that was so terribly cruel to him. This devotion is when I am speechless. Our pets benefit us in so many ways and completely out-weigh what we can give back to our friends who cannot speak. Imagine a young child who was having a difficult time with reading and was lacking self confidence in reading aloud. That child certainly
benefited from reading to a pet. See a dog lying ever so silent, or the family cat purring on the pillow next to this child who was reading a book aloud. The animal didn’t criticize or judge. it didn’t make fun or correct, but instead offered an ear and companionship. Many children have increased their reading abilities if they read to the family pet. I met a senior who lost his wife and became withdrawn. He was persuaded by his son to adopt a Cairn terrier named Jasper. Jasper was a perfect fit because Cairns are very funny little dogs. If you are not familiar with a Cairn, you will most likely remember Toto from Wizard of Oz. They are spunky and very smart, almost to a fault. My senior friend needed to take Jasper out a few times a day for a walk but other dog owners would see silly Jasper heading for the nearest puddle and start to laugh. Friendships were struck and daily visits to the dog park brought conversation to the seniors. Jasper would always look back to make sure that his master was enjoying his outing as much as he was.
Written by Cheryl LePine, Community and Fund Development Coordinator Quinte Humane Society
Perhaps we would have less road rage if our passenger was a canine with its head out the window enjoying the sun. Take your pets lead and just be together in the moment. Read together, play together and pay attention to what they are trying to teach you. You might be missing something wonderful. Drop by the Humane Society in your area and see who just might want to make you their family. Adopt – don’t shop!
During one conversation about Jasper, my friend told me that every time he went in the den, he would see Jasper sneak ever so slowly past the office door to the artificial flower arrangement and vase by the entryway. After the owner had to repair the entire display a dozen times, it occurred to him that Jasper was wanting some quality time with him – his solitude could wait. Jasper and play time now took up those past lonely moments. We have much to learn from animals and their love, devotion and instinct. To me, there should be many more places that pets should be included, such as schools, offices, hospitals and prisons.
www.quintehumanesociety.com www.kingstonhumanesociety.ca 33
advanced technology Quinte West-Chao Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation™, is a new minimally invasive treatment for receding gums without the invasive surgery and recovery time required with gum grafting. Dr. Younes is among the first group of dentists and periodontists to be trained in the new technique, invented by Los Angeles dentist Dr. John Chao. The treatment is also known as the Chao Pinhole Surgical Technique™.
.......................................................................... Exciting News for the Quinte Area.
A New Treatment For Receding Gums. ..........................................................................
“The conventional treatment for receding gums is gum grafting surgery, an invasive procedure in which a section of gum tissue must be cut out of the palate, then sewn on to the affected area,” says Dr. Younes. “Because of the surgery and recovery time, dentists will usually treat only one or two teeth, then wait for the patient to heal before treating additional teeth. For a patient with several recessions, the treatment process could take months or even years.” Chao Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation™ takes just a few minutes per tooth treated and most importantly multiple teeth may be treated at the same time, allowing patients to have healthy, normal-looking gums with a minimum of inconvenience. “This is a revolutionary alternative to gum grafting,” says Dr. Younes.
How does this differ from traditional grafting methods? The area of gum recession is numbed with a local anesthetic. Depending on the number of recessions to be treated one or two small entry points about the size of the tip of a ballpoint pen are made in the gum area near the tooth or teeth to be treated.
What is gum recession? Receding gums can affect people of all ages. Symptoms can include sensitivity to cold temperatures and if left untreated gum recession can lead to eventual tooth loss. Receding gums can be caused by excessive tooth brushing, gum disease or the normal aging process. “Many people are unaware of the condition until their teeth become sensitive while others are concerned by the unsightly appearance at their gums,” says Dr. Younes.
A small, specially designed dental instrument is inserted into the entry point to loosen the gum tissues and move them back into a normal, healthy position. Then tiny collagen strips are placed through the entry point under the gums. The collagen helps to keep the gums in place during the healing process. The treatment takes about 20 minutes to an hour or so, depending on the number of teeth treated. The entry
Why should gum recession be taken seriously? When gum recession occurs, the root structure of the tooth becomes exposed. This means that tooth decay and other problems can affect the teeth along the gumline and beneath it. Since healthy gums are essential for a healthy mouth, getting gum recession treated is important for lasting dental wellness. 34
Before Procedure
site quickly heals and the pinhole is virtually undetectable the next day, with no downtime needed or healing. Some patients may experience mild swelling, which dissipates in a few days. The benefits of the Pinhole Surgical Technique are many: Less discomfort for the patient after treatment Faster recovery for the patient than traditional grafting No need for uncomfortable sutures No need for scalpels or invasive surgical tools No need to take donor tissue from the patient’s palate Excellent, natural-looking, longlasting results After Procedure
Find out if this treatment is right for you!!! www.younescosmeticdentist.com to watch a video • 613-208-0808
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