ARTMS Closes a US$19 Million Series A Financing with Deerfield and Global Health Sciences (GHS) Fund
VANCOUVER and NEW YORK, May 20, 2020 - ARTMS Inc. a global leader in developing technology that transforms the production of the world's most-used diagnostic imaging isotopes, today announced that it has raised US$19 million in a Series A financing. The investment was led by New York based Deerfield Management Company with continued investment from Vancouver based seed investor GHS Fund (Quark Venture LP and GF Securities).
"We are thrilled to have this significant investment with such knowledgeable, high-caliber investors. This funding gives us the financial flexibility to leverage our QUANTM Irradiation SystemTM (QISTM) technology and partner with customers to revolutionize the nuclear medicine industry by enabling global access to cyclotron-produced medical isotopes," says Charles S. Conroy, Chief Executive Officer of ARTMS Inc.
ARTMS' flagship product, the QUANTM Irradiation SystemTM (QISTM) enables cost-effective, decentralized, and local production of important medical isotopes including gallium-68 (68Ga), zirconium-89 (89Zr), technetium‐99m (99mTc) and copper-64 (64Cu). The award-winning technology utilizes locally-based medical cyclotrons, empowering the user to control their supply chain and produce high volumes of innovative high-quality radiopharmaceutical products. In 2019 ARTMS, demonstrated a world record 68Ga production from a single, short-duration irradiation of QUANTM 68Zn Target Plates. A single 90-minute run produced as much isotope as 200 commercially available generators. ARTMS has already proven the concept and clinical application for routine and high-yield production of 99mTc.
ARTMS will use the financing to continue to collaborate with industry partners with the aim of developing cyclotron produced 68Ga-based diagnostic and to expand the commercialization of the QISTM for the production of additional critical medical isotopes.
In 2020, ARTMS announced partnerships with ImaginAb, toexplore a novel radiochemistry manufacture of ImaginAb's lead asset 89Zr CD8 ImmunoPET, and Telix Pharmaceuticals to develop proof of concept to manufacture TLX591-CDx – a Prostate Cancer Diagnostic. 68Ga produced using the QISTM system will be used for the radiolabeling of TLX591-CDx.
"We strive to invest in companies that are working toward the development of innovative technologies to improve the way healthcare is delivered to patients. We are delighted to support ARTMS to advance the QISTM technology as it has the potential to stabilize the global supply chain of vital medical isotopes," says James E. Flynn, Managing Partner at Deerfield.
"As the seed investor in ARTMS we are pleased to continue to support the company and the development of its groundbreaking technology. The QISTM technology has the ability to satisfy the rapidly increasing demand for high-quality medical isotopes and unlock the potential of medical isotopes for diagnostic and therapeutic applications," saysKarimah Es Sabar, Chief Executive Officer & Partner, Quark Venture LP and Director of the GHS Fund.
ARTMS's initial founding technology stems from leading Canadian founding institutions, TRIUMF, BC Cancer, the Centre for Probe Development and Commercialization, and Lawson Health Research Institute, and has had continued support from partners at Alliance Medical, Western Economic Diversification Canada and National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP).
For further information: Kamran Shaikh, SR. Account Manager, PR Associates, Email: kshaikh@prassociates.com, Phone: +1 778 846 5406
About ARTMS Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, ARTMS Inc. is a global leader in the development of novel technologies and products which enable the high-quality and high-yield production of the world's most-used diagnostic imaging isotopes. ARTMS' flagship product, the QUANTM Irradiation SystemTM (QISTM), enables decentralized, cost-effective, large-scale production of important medical isotopes such as of gallium-68 (68Ga), zirconium-89 (89Zr), technetium‐99m (99mTc) and copper-64 (64Cu) using local, hospital-based medical cyclotrons empowering the user to control their supply chain. ARTMS commercializes these award-winning and proprietary Canadian inventions on a global basis and has the prospect of revolutionizing the nuclear medicine industry.
About Deerfield Management Deerfield is a healthcare investment management firm committed to advancing healthcare through investment, information and philanthropy.
About Quark Venture Quark Venture LP is a venture capital company focused on equity financing of innovative biotechnology companies with breakthrough technology platforms. Our strategic goal is to continually support such entrepreneurial biotechnology companies to efficiently improve the technology platform and obtain high-growth value by providing diversified healthcare products or services. Quark's proven success is achieved through long-term relationships with target companies that share similar technology innovation visions.
DriSteem Installs Two STS Humidifiers at Mercy Hospital in Buffalo, NY for Health of Patients and Positive Health Outcomes
Eden Prairie, MN – May 20, 2020 - DRI-STEEM Corporation (DriSteem), the leading manufacturer of humidification, evaporative cooling, and water treatment products, announced today the successful installation of (2) DriSteem STS® (steam-to-steam) humidifiers at Mercy Hospital in Buffalo, New York.
Mercy Hospital needed to replace two existing and aging 1960’s-era air handlers that served operating suites, pharmacy processes, the sterile processing department, and patient areas. Mercy Hospital’s goal with the new humidification systems in these air handlers was to control the relative humidity to the recommended levels of between 40% and 60% RH. With the RH levels in this range, the amount of viruses and bacteria in the air and on surfaces are decreased and the number of respiratory and hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) among staff and patients are reduced.
RL Kistler, Inc. and engineer, Jake Muller, of M/E Engineering, P.C., determined that since they couldn’t afford any interruption of humidification steam to critical areas, a DriSteem Vapormist® electric steam humidifier was the optimal choice during the months-long transition. The final design included two DriSteem STS® steam-to-steam humidifiers, which use pressurized boiler steam as the energy source to vaporize fresh fill water into evaporative humidification steam. Ultra-sorb® steam dispersion panels were used because they were able to accomodate the short absorption distance for steam in the air handler.
“We are proud to be selected by Mercy Hospital in Buffalo to continue to provide the hospital and its patients with the best air quality through the addition of humidity,” said Mysty Hanson, Assistant Product Manager. “If more facilities instituted a humidification system, it would help keep people healthier.”
DriSteem’s STS steam-to-steam humidifier creates chemical-free humidification steam using boiler steam as its energy source. It accomplishes this by using boiler steam in its heat exchanger to vaporize clean fill water into humidification steam. It is a closed-loop system, so no boiler steam or chemicals enter the humidified space; they return to the boiler.
DriSteem is a premier provider of humidification, evaporative cooling, and water treatment solutions for commercial and industrial applications. DriSteem offers custom systems for critical indoor environments such as health care, data centers, and other facilities requiring precise control of moisture in the air.
DriSteem’s 50-year history of development and innovation has resulted in multiple patented designs that not only meet, but anticipate, customers’ unique needs. DriSteem is a subsidiary of Research Products Corporation, manufacturer of Aprilaire®, the leading residential humidifier brand, as well as air cleaners, heat-recovery systems and HVAC accessories.
Leading distiller of organic spirits offers freeze-and-eat adult treats free from chemicals and artificial colors
Minneapolis, MN ( May 20,2020 ) – Drake’s Organic Spirits announced today that its popular Spiked Iceä freeze-and-eat adult pops are now available at all 205 Save Mart Companies locations throughout Northern/Central California.
“We’re beyond thrilled to offer Drake’s Organic Spiked Iceä to Save Mart customers,” said Drake’s Founder and CEO Mark Anderson. “Our products are a perfect fit for The Save Mart Companies ‘fresh comes first’ philosophy. Consumers want cleaner options for their bodies and they want products that are friendlier to the planet. Drake’s accomplishes both.”
Based in the heart of the Central Valley, The Save Mart Companies operates 205 traditional and price impact stores under the banners of Save Mart, Lucky, Lucky California, FoodMaxx, S-Mart Foods, and Maxx Value Foods.
Drake’s Organic Spiked Iceä are handheld ice pops that feature 15% ABV and only 80 calories each. Spiked Iceä comes in four flavors - Mango Rum Punch, Vodka Lemonade, Watermelon Martini and Classic Mojito - and are made with Drake’s award-winning all-organic ultra-premium vodka and white rum. They contain no artificial colors or flavors and freeze with twice the ABV as other brands.
Drake’s Organic Spirits is the first and only spirit line in the world to be certified USDA organic, non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free, vegan and kosher. The five certifications ensure a cleaner drinking option that comes only from the highest quality organic ingredients. Drake’s continues to be among the most environmentally conscious brands in the spirits industry and deeply committed to using ingredients and processes that lead to a more sustainable planet.
In 2019, Drake’s Organic Premium Vodka was awarded Double Gold and Drake’s Organic White Rum received Gold at the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) Convention & Exposition in Orlando, FL. The highly-respected awards are widely considered among the most prestigious in the industry because judges are industry experts who blind taste-test each spirit.
Proceeds from the sale of all Drake’s Organic Spirits products help fund Long Lake Animal Rescue, an animal rescue foundation that takes in animals in urgent need of a second chance at life.
About Drake’s Organic Spirits Minneapolis-based Drake’s Organic Spirits was launched in 2017. Drake’s uses the highest quality USDA organic and non-GMO Project Verified ingredients to create a line of ultra- premium spirits and mixes. Drake’s Organic Vodka, Drake’s Organic White Rum and Drakes Organic Spiced Rum offer a no-grain, no-gluten, no-gmo, ultra-premium and 12-times distilled handcrafted spirits at a better price than the leading premium brands. The company recently began producing bulk sanitizer to meet the need for cleaner, safer environments.
About The Save Mart Companies The Save Mart Companies operates 205 stores throughout California and Northern Nevada under the banners of FoodMaxx, Lucky and Save Mart. The Save Mart Companies is committed to sourcing a wide variety of local products to communities throughout California and Northern Nevada. In addition to its retail operation, the company also operates Smart Refrigerated Transport and is a partner in Super Store Industries (SSI), which owns and operates a distribution center in Lathrop and the Sunnyside Farms dairy processing plant in Turlock. For more information on the company, please visit: www.TheSaveMartCompanies.com.
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Covid-19 Crisis Triage--Optimizing Health Outcomes and Disability Rights
New England Journal of Medicine article offers policy recommendations for triage protocols that save the most lives and protect core values, such as the equal moral worth of all people.
Disability rights advocates are concerned that crisis triage protocols aimed at allocating scarce health care resources to save the most lives could be biased against people with disabilities. These concerns have prompted an investigation by the Office of Civil Rights at the Department of Health and Human Services and appeals to Congress to prohibit crisis triage based on “anticipated or demonstrated resource-intensity needs, the relative survival probabilities of patients deemed likely to benefit from medical treatment, and assessments of pre- or post-treatment quality of life.” An article published in the New England Journal of Medicine on May 19 gives policy recommendations that aim to meet the goals of allocating scarce resources primarily to save the most lives, but doing so in a way that explicitly protects core values. such as the equal moral worth of all people. The article, “Covid-19 Crisis Triage—Optimizing Health Outcomes and Disability Rights,” was written by Mildred Z. Solomon, EdD, president of The Hastings Center; Matthew K. Wynia, MD, MPH, a professor at the Colorado School of Medicine and the Colorado School of Public Health and director of the Center for Bioethics and Humanities at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus; and Lawrence O. Gostin, JD, director of the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at Georgetown Law School. “Allocation of ventilators has become symbolic of the difficult ethical choices we face, but the criteria and processes we recommend apply to any scarce medical resource,” the authors write. Crisis triage arises when not everyone can receive essential care. Some disability rights advocates argue that triage based on assessing patients’ likelihood of benefit is fundamentally incompatible with respect for human dignity. Instead, these advocates call for allocating ventilators and other resources on a first-come, first served basis. But this approach would result in more deaths overall and would leave many people with disabilities worse off, especially if they face barriers in accessing care, such as difficulty with transportation and communication, write Solomon, Wynia, and Gostin. “We believe that crisis triage protocols should focus on identifying the patients who are most likely to die without a ventilator yet most likely to survive with one, using the best available clinical survivability scores, not broad categorical exclusions,” they write. The authors recommend focusing on near-term survivability—living 1 year after hospital discharge—rather than on long-term survival because near-term survivability can be assessed more accurately, whereas long-term survival is hard to predict and, therefore, subject to bias. The most controversial triage protocols, the authors state, are those that aim to maximize the number of life-years saved, either by prioritizing young people over older ones or by giving lower priority to people with severe life-limiting illnesses. “Both kinds of life-year considerations are ethically acceptable, though only as tiebreakers,” they write. “Privileging younger patients is justifiable because it’s based not on stereotyping or bias against older patients but on equal opportunity and minimizing harm: the younger persons have had less opportunity to experience a full life and therefore would suffer greater harm if they were to die.” With regard to advanced illness, if two patients have the same likelihood of near-term survival, but one patient has advanced cancer and a low likelihood of 5-year survival, the authors say that it would be ethical to choose the person with the greater prospect of living longer. “It would not be acceptable, however, to assume that all patients with a given disability have shorter life expectancies than other patients and decide that therefore none should receive scarce resources,” they write. Solomon summed up the rationale for writing the paper. “Discrimination against the disabled in health care is well documented, so it behooves us to ensure that triage protocols do all they can to avoid bias,” she said. “Responsible health systems and health care leaders are doing the nation a service by anticipating the potential, tragic need for these protocols and working to design them as responsibly as possible.” Given that the science and epidemiology of Covid-19 are rapidly changing, the authors recommend that health care organizations consider current triage protocols provisional. “To ensure the trustworthiness of the health system,” they write, “disability rights advocates and health care leaders should work together to finalize crisis triage plans that save the most lives, protect the equal worth of all persons, and enhance communities’ capacity to heal in the wake of a once-in-a-century pandemic.”
SALON DISTANCING 2.0 AFTER CORONAVIRUS
TIPS ON WHAT THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY (SALONS/SPAS) NEED TO DO BEFORE THEY REOPEN
While the unintended spread of infection is not new to the world salons and spas, the devastating impacts of COVID-19 have made it clear that we can no longer take germs for granted.
“This is especially relevant to hairdressers, nail technicians, aestheticians and massage therapists who do not have the luxury of distancing themselves from their clients or working behind plexiglass,” says Jeff Alford, president of The CBON Group, Canada’s largest supplier of professional infection control products.
Alford continues, “ If beauty professionals are to return to their jobs and work in an environment that is safe for staff and clients alike, significant changes will need to take place representing a shift to a “new norm” or 2.0 version of the industry from which we may never go back. This transformative change will come with a need for significant investment, retraining and re-purposing of a salons and spas for a new life in the age of coronavirus and future outbreaks.”
Alford says the Professional Beauty industry will have to make changes and offers these tips for salons and spas for when they reopen.
It All Starts with Education
Beauty professionals apply their trade after having undertaken extensive schooling, on the job training and constant skills upgrading to offer their services in a highly competitive industry. Unfortunately, the knowledge acquired to address infection prevention has often times been inadequate and varied from learning institutions, licensing boards, regional bylaws and provincial health guidelines. While that is likely to change post coronavirus with more standardized regulation, returning workers will need to quickly get up to speed and become educated on the risks posed by germs to themselves and their clients if they are to confidently open their doors again. In addition to their stated profession, the role of "infection prevention practitioner” will accompany the “new norm" to allay the concerns and fears of an increasingly aware and scrutinizing customers.
Client Distancing
We have become accustomed to measures that maintain a safe space from others in a bid to contain the spread of COVID-19 like standing apart in checkouts, curb side pick-up and physical barriers that protect staff. However, in the close proximity, hands-on world of salon and spa treatments this may not always be possible. To minimize the risk of exposure, we may begin to see the elimination of waiting areas, reduction of the number of workstations, fewer appointments and other steps taken to distance clients from staff and each other. Every service may require different solutions: nail technicians working behind “sneeze guards”; hairdressers no longer offering blow dries, massage therapists wearing gloves, face shields for aestheticians, etc. There won’t a be a one-stop solution as each salon and spa will need to address their own levels of risk to take appropriate action.
Client Screening
It has long been a practice for under-the-weather clients to take a "spa day" as a bit of pampering indulgence. This activity was especially prevalent during the flu season when the spread of germs would lead to others being infected and in turn missing work. During the 2018-19 influenza period, nearly 50,000 cases were recorded in Canada. Given COVID-19’s contagiousness and no available vaccine, this behaviour cannot be allowed to continue. In the new 2.0 salon and spa world, customers can expect rigorous screening at the door that could include temperature taking, checklist for symptoms and required use of face masks while receiving service. Only in so doing can beauty professionals protect themselves, their clients and their business.
Increased Sanitation Practices
The virus that causes COVID-19 can remain viable on surfaces from hours to a few days. It will therefore be critical to undertake disinfection of all client touch points which will include workstations, treatment furniture, counters, waiting areas, washrooms, etc. This activity should take place between each appointment and be allowed the requisite contact time which can be anywhere from 3 to 10 minutes. Not all disinfectants are the same and salons and spa owners should undertake a full investigation of the options—for example, some disinfectants don’t come with a Health Canada approved claim against coronavirus. Others are accompanied by harsh side effects through prolonged exposure like eye and skin irritation or respiratory issues. The new salon "infection prevention practitioner" will need to become very familiar with precautionary label language, correct usage, compatibility issues to ensure germs, bacteria and viruses are being appropriately removed from their facilities.
Engagement
The post coronavirus age will represent a new partnership between businesses and consumers. We are experiencing unprecedented measures being taken to protect workers as we frequent retail stores and services, and in turn we practice social distancing and respect the steps taken to avoid the spread of infection. The professional beauty industry will have a similar relationship with their clients who are eager to return to receiving the treatments they’ve had to go without for some time. But this group is now more aware and will expect to see how their salons and spas are responding to these challenging times. The extra security may come with an ask for payment of a “coronavirus surcharge” or other considerations but these will be viewed as necessary to ensure everyone’s safety.
RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE BC & YUKON INTRODUCES STEP UP FOR FAMILIES, A VIRTUAL FUNDRAISER
Go the (social) distance and support families of RMH BC through the month of June
Vancouver, BC (May 20, 2020):Ronald McDonald House BC & Yukon (RMH BC) is thrilled to announce Step Up for Families: Going the (Social) Distance, a virtual fundraising challenge that encourages the public to stay active – practicing safe social distancing, of course! – to raise money for families staying at RMH BC while their children receive life-saving medical care.
Taking place through the month of June, Step Up for Families calls on the community, including RMH BC supporters, friends, families and corporate groups to achieve their movement goals while raising money for RMH BC families. Participants are encouraged to walk, run, or roll a total of 73km within the month, symbolizing the 73-room House that shelters parents and siblings of children requiring care at BC Children’s Hospital. All individuals in a team may tally their distances together to reach the 73km goal. Each participant or team is challenged to raise a minimum of $125, which covers the cost of one family staying at the House for one night. The event is open to people of all ages, abilities and fitness levels who wish to support families of RMH BC.
“We are so excited to launch Step Up for Families this summer, and give people the opportunity to help families with sick children simply by spending time outdoors,” says Sunshine Purificacion, Director of Community Development at RMH BC. “No matter where you live, you can join in as we go the (social) distance to support 2,000 families every year who rely on RMH BC for accommodation, guidance and compassion during an extremely difficult and stressful time.”
Step Up for Families participants can track their progress virtually using any fitness tracking apps like Strava, MarkMyRunor, tracking devices such as Fitbit, Garmin or mobile phones. Each time a run or walk is completed, participants may submit their results on the Step Up for Families website. The site will generate a personal fundraising page, which means every online donation will be automatically sent to RMH BC to cover the cost of families staying at the House. "The running and fitness community in Vancouver is a dedicated and motivated group,” says Phil Moore, founder of popular local sporting goods stores LadySport and FitFirst Footwear. “Doing what we love to do for a great cause is a win-win situation. Our stores have supported families at the House for some time now and we are happy to partner with RMH BC on this great initiative."
Though $125 is the suggested fundraising goal, as it represents one night’s accommodation at the House, fitness superstars who raise additional funds will be entered into a draw to win prizes such as gear from LadySport or a Garmin Forerunner 35 Smartwatch. Extreme walkers or runners can soar above and beyond their fitness goals by striving for milestones such as $875 (one week’s accommodation for one family); $1,500 (12 days’ accommodation for one family, or the average length of stay at RMH BC); or $3,750 (one month’s accommodation for one family). Remember, as you go the distance for RMH BC families be sure to maintain social distancing of at least six feet!To register for the event:Register for free as an individual or teamAssemble your team & fundraiseStep Up in June & complete the 73km goalSupport the families that find a home away from home at RMH BCFor more information about Step Up for Families or to get involved, please visit Rmhbc.ca or contact community@rmhbc.ca. You can also share your fitness fundraising online using the following social media handles – and don’t forget to tag RMH BC with the hashtag #StepUpForFamilies. For extra family fun, participants are encouraged to share a short video on social media about their motivation for stepping up for RMH BC. Videos can also be sent to community@rmhbc.ca.-###- About Ronald McDonald House BC & Yukon Each year, 2,000 families from across British Columbia and the Yukon travel to Vancouver in search of life-saving treatment for their children. Far from their homes, they desperately need affordable accommodation and a place to stay together under one roof. Ronald McDonald House® BC and Yukon offers a home away from home, a community of support, and a restful space for families to heal better together. Rmhbc.ca
Five "Spiritual Stretches" to Help Nurses Stay Connected to the Difference They Make (Just in Time for Nurses Month) Rich Bluni offers five exercises to help you reclaim hope, meaning, and purpose. Put them into practice during National Nurses Month.
Pensacola, FL (May 2020)—If you're a nurse, it's hard not to feel a little hopeless in the fight against COVID-19. Like other frontline workers, you're running a marathon day in and day out with no finish line in sight. There's a constant barrage of bad news. Everything seems bleak. Rich Bluni says in circumstances like these, it's vital to feel that your work has meaning.
"It's more crucial than ever to proactively tap into the meaning behind what you do," says Bluni, himself an RN with over 25 years of experience in the ER, Trauma, and ICU and author of best-selling books Inspired Nurse (Huron|Studer Group Publishing, 2009, ISBN: 978-0-9749986-7-1, $24.95) and Inspired Nurse Too (Huron|Studer Group Publishing, 2016, ISBN: 978-1-6221804-6-2, $28.00). "Reconnecting to the sense that you serve a greater purpose is what keeps you going."
Staying inspired isn't easy even in the best of times, says Bluni. Nursing is always hard work. But in times like these, it's as necessary as breathing and eating. National Nurses Month—an expansion of National Nurses Week, which is traditionally May 6-12—is the perfect time to reconnect to the why of your work.
Bluni—who is currently sharing stories and tactics from Inspired Nurse in short video segments—says simple exercises can help. Here are five "spiritual stretches" to put into practice right away. (Bluni recommends doing at least one of them daily.)
1. Take ten minutes of purpose. Before leaving your house for work today, allow for ten extra minutes. Get up earlier, shut off the TV, and if you are still living with your family, ask them to give you some "me" time (that in and of itself might be an impressive accomplishment!). Sit someplace peaceful and quiet.
During this time, think about an occasion when you felt that you made a difference as a nurse—an occasion in which you felt connected to your purpose. Perhaps think of this moment as your "most inspiring nursing experience ever."
Now, close your eyes and relive that experience. Remember the sounds and the sights. Hear the voices. Hear the monitor bells; see the defibrillator reach its charge. Get back there. Your goal is to recreate the whole experience for yourself.
Embrace the feeling of purpose. Feel the sense of pride, of accomplishment. Your mind doesn't know the difference between it really happening and the memory. Feel that inspiration. Feel all the feelings that you felt. The joy. The spirit. Stay there for several minutes.
When your ten minutes are up, open your eyes. How do you feel? If you haven't felt close to your purpose for a while, this is a good way to get started.
2. Thank a family member (or friend) for his or her support. What family member, significant other, or friend has been a key to your nursing success? More recently, who has supported you during the pandemic? Maybe your neighbor collected funds and sent you and your team a meal at work. Maybe a friend dropped off a week's worth of groceries so you can limit your exposure to the public.
Few of us take this journey without anyone's help. Who has offered you support? Does she know how much you appreciate what she does for you? Tell her. Write her, call her, bring her flowers.
By feeding you, or paying your way, or driving you, or being a shoulder to cry on, that person has made it possible for you to save lives. Give credit where credit is due. Let her know that every time you comfort the suffering, teach a new nurse, lead a team, or bring peace to the dying, she is right there with you. This will be an unforgettable experience.
3. Notice the miraculous. During your time as a nurse, have you experienced something that you can't explain? An amazing recovery? A healing that left the team scratching their heads in disbelief?
Working in healthcare, you have no doubt either experienced a COVID-related miracle recovery firsthand or at least have heard about them. If you haven't yet experienced that personally, do you know of someone who has? What was his or her story?
Today, take notice of the miraculous. Maybe you are a spiritual person and believe in a Higher Power. Or maybe you are more aligned with science and believe that mysterious phenomena could be explained scientifically. It really doesn't matter.
What is important is that you get in touch with that which is bigger than you. Journal about what a "miracle" is to you. If it is a story that you recall, write it down. If it is something that you are hoping for, whether it be for a patient or a friend, journal about it.
4. Humor heals. Give yourself permission to laugh. Using your journal, write down what you think is funny. Who is your favorite comedic actor or actress? What movies make you laugh? Who is the funniest person you know? Who makes you laugh at work? Who always has a funny joke to tell, an embarrassing story, or great witty comebacks? Is it you? Ponder what laughter means to you.
We have two choices in life: We laugh or we cry. Sometimes we laugh so hard we cry; sometimes we cry so much we eventually start to laugh at how ridiculous the situation is. This doesn't mean we don't acknowledge the seriousness of what's happening in the world right now—of course we do. Sometimes, for the average nurse, we are laughing and crying within a 15-minute time span at work!
Knowing that laughter and tears are often interchangeable, think about how you can choose laughter. Do you take yourself so seriously that you've become rigid? How can you make humor a mainstay? Can you or the team you're on this journey with find a way to make this an "everyday" thing? Laughter heals the soul and resets the mind.
5. Give of your time and knowledge. Even if you can't do volunteer work right now due to the pandemic, you can plan it, look for it, talk about it with your peers or friends, ask questions, journal about it, inquire about it, and put the wheels in motion.
You will be really amazed at what may come up today. Someone may invite you to participate in a webinar on health and hygiene tips that just so happens to fall on your day off. Or once "this" is all over, you may choose to contact your place of worship or community center and find that there's a need for you to help with free blood pressure screenings or virtual lectures on diabetes.
Giving of your time and expertise serves the dual purpose of inspiring self and inspiring others. The caring heart you possess as a nurse needs to be fed. Not doing so deprives you of the fuel you need to sustain your spirit in this field.
"Your inspiration is your superpower," concludes Bluni. "It helps you to persevere under extreme pressure and stay strong for your patients. Don't give up. Instead, let these 'spiritual stretches' keep you in top condition as you meet the challenges of this pandemic head-on and come out stronger on the other side."
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About the Author: Rich Bluni, RN, is the author of the best-selling books Inspired Nurse, Oh No...Not More of That Fluffy Stuff!, and Inspired Nurse Too. He has an active and popular Facebook page called Inspired Nurse.
Rich has been an RN since 1993. He has worked as a nurse in Adolescent Oncology, Pediatric ICU, and Trauma ICU departments as well as serving as a pediatric flight and transport nurse. He has served as an ED nursing manager as well as a senior director of risk management, quality, and patient safety.
He came to Studer Group in 2007 as a coach working with dozens of healthcare organizations and leaders to drive outstanding results. He is presently a senior director with Huron and a Studer Group national speaker, having traveled across North America to speak in front of hundreds of thousands of healthcare workers and leaders in hundreds of healthcare organizations, large healthcare conferences, as well as virtual webinars.
About the Books: Inspired Nurse Too (Huron|Studer Group Publishing, 2016, ISBN: 978-1-6221804-6-2, $28.00) and Inspired Nurse (Huron|Studer Group Publishing, 2009, ISBN: 978-0-9749986-7-1, $24.95) are available from major online booksellers and the Huron|Studer Group website.
Artist Releases Coming-of-age Memoir Detailing Her Journey With Mental Illness And Disability
Long Island, NY, May 20, 2020 – It started as a college prank; a friend offered Ruth Poniarski a brownie that, unbeknownst to her, was laced with angel dust. What resulted was a debilitating accident, and the first of many mental breakdowns that spiraled into diagnoses of psychosis, schizophrenia, severe anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Long Island native Ruth Poniarski has released her first book, Journey of the Self: Memoir of an Artist, published by Charlotte, North Carolina-based Warren Publishing. Poniarski’s unflinchingly honest memoir shares her coming-of-age story through the lenses of mental illness, disability, and steadfast determination.
For years, Poniarski struggled to cope with her new reality as she undertook a rigorous architectural program, sought out new friends (and the perfect mate), and battled through the depths of mental illness. Her journey led her in all directions as she sought comfort, solace, stability and love.
Now an accomplished artist, Poniarski considers her memoir to be a portrait of sorts. “This book, like many of my paintings, is about introspection,” she says. “So many of us, particularly when we’re young, seek definition through labels or through what others think of us. It’s so easy to say, ‘I have bipolar disorder, therefore, X’ or ‘So and so doesn’t love me the way I love him, therefore, Y.’ But none of that is who we truly are.”
The release of Poniarski’s memoir is particularly timely in light of the Coronavirus pandemic and social distancing orders. “A lot of people are stuck at home right now. This kind of isolation forces a person to examine themselves; what makes them unique beyond who they are to society,” says Poniarski. “That kind of self-reflection allows us to become more available to others. You have to know yourself first.”
“So, who am I?” Poniarski laughs. “Well … you’ll just have to read the book!”
For more information about Ruth Poniarski or her book, please visit: ruthponiarski.com.
Research shows hydroxychloroquine has substantial survival benefit among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in the general population
VANCOUVER, May 20, 2020 /CNW/ - An Arthritis Research Canada study has revealed substantial survival benefit associated with the current use of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), and increased mortality with recent discontinuation among individuals with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the general population.
Hydroxychloroquine is an often prescribed medication for lupus patients given the number of benefits it offers, including a reduction in disease severity and its ability to lower the risk of lupus nephritis and several other comorbidities such as hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, venous thromboembolism, and pregnancy complications. While it has shown significant survival benefit among patients who receive specialized care, this benefit has not been previously demonstrated with the general population until now.
"The study supports the additional benefit of hydroxychloroquine in preventing premature death in patients with lupus, regardless of what type of lupus patients may have. Staying on hydroxychloroquine, will save your life," said Dr. J. Antonio Avina-Zubieta, senior research scientist at Arthritis Research Canada who conducted the study.
The research team used anonymous administrative health data which includes information on demographics, vital statistics, healthcare visits, and prescription history to study all patients. Users of hydroxychloroquine were designated into four categories based on the timeframe between their last prescription date (i.e. end of medication supply) and index rate (i.e. death rate). These categories include current users (<30 days), recent users (30-365 days), remote users (>365 days), or never used.
"Hydroxychloroquine is a life-saving medication for lupus patients that should never be stopped if tolerated. Taking hydroxychloroquine as prescribed by a physician can help avoid premature death for lupus patients. One of the highlights of our study, is the findings apply to the average patient with lupus. We know that often patients believe when it comes to medications, less is better – this study showed that this is not the case for hydroxychloroquine. In the current COVID-19 pandemic, this medication was suggested as a potential therapy for COVID-19 patients which resulted in a potential shortage. Lupus patients need to make sure they have their supply secured by their pharmacy," Dr. Avina-Zubieta continued.
In the long term, researchers hope future studies can further explore the potential link between hydroxychloroquine discontinuation and increased mortality as well as its impact on other systemic lupus erythematosus related outcomes.
About ARTHRITIS RESEARCH CANADA: Arthritis Research Canada is the largest clinical arthritis research institution in North America. Our mission is to transform the lives of people living with arthritis through research and engagement. Led by world-renowned rheumatologist, Dr. John Esdaile, Arthritis Research Canada's scientific team of over 100 are creating a future where people living with arthritis are empowered to triumph over pain and disability. With four centres across Canada in British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec (Laval and McGill Universities), Arthritis Research Canada is leading research aimed at arthritis prevention, early diagnosis, new and better treatment, and improved quality of life.
SOURCE Arthritis Research Canada
Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association calls for more compassionate visitation protocols during COVID-19 pandemic
OTTAWA, May 21, 2020 /CNW/ - In response to inconsistent and in some cases extreme restrictions on end-of-life visitations across Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association (CHPCA) and the CHPCA Champion's Council are calling on health authorities to implement a more compassionate approach.
While certain provinces have taken steps to relax visitation protocols for end-of-life situations, many hospitals and long-term care homes still do not allow family access, even with personal protective equipment (PPE).
"Every Canadian deserves the chance to say goodbye to their loved ones, even in an unprecedented crisis such as COVID-19. There have been too many heartbreaking stories of families who were unable to say goodbye due to extreme restrictions on end-of-life visitations." said Sharon Baxter, Executive Director at the CHPCA. "While health and safety must continue to be paramount as we fight COVID-19, we can do better as a society by promoting a more compassionate, inclusive visitation protocol that embraces hospice palliative care principles and dying with dignity.
"The CHPCA, which serves as the Secretariat for the Quality End of Life Care Coalition of Canada (QELCCC), is urging health authorities and providers to deliver on three key asks:
Adopt a compassionate protocol that allows those nearing death to say goodbye to their families and loved ones, and follows safety measures including PPE requirements as indicated by the Public Health Agency of Canada. This can be achieved by reviewing current public health protocols to include a compassionate approach around end-of-life visitations.
Liaise with the hospice palliative care (HPC) community to exchange expertise in caring for the dying and the bereaved. Many of the approximately 265,000 Canadians who die each year are supported by HPC, so the CHPCA and its partners have extensive experience in this area and valuable learnings to share.
Offer grief and bereavement support services for those who lose a family member or loved one. Existing grief and bereavement services are extremely limited and not necessarily funded by the health care system. There are significant long-term implications Canada could face if growing demand is not addressed.
"Together, these recommendations will help Canadians say goodbye and deal with their loss in a way that protects the safety of frontline health care workers and prevents transmission of COVID-19," added Russell Williams, chair of the CHPCA's Champion's Council. "We look forward to collaborating with health care providers on this important issue."
About The Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association The CHPCA is the national voice for Hospice Palliative Care in Canada. Advancing and advocating for quality end-of-life/hospice palliative care in Canada, its work includes public policy, public education and awareness. Established in 1991, its volunteer Board of Directors is composed of hospice palliative care workers and volunteers from Canadian provinces and territories as well as members-at-large.
SOURCE Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association
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Vancouver, BC (May 20, 2020): 
"The running and fitness community in Vancouver is a dedicated and motivated group,” says Phil Moore, founder of popular local sporting goods stores 