It has been 35 years since the historic discovery of HIV, the retrovirus believed to cause AIDS.
Following three long and scary years since first learning about a then-nameless but virtually always fatal illness, the world held its collective breath as HHS Secretary Margaret Heckler stood at the podium for a press conference on April 23, 1984. Secretary Heckler announced that Dr. Robert Gallo and his colleagues at the National Cancer Institute had discovered the cause of AIDS, a retrovirus labeled HTLV-III/LAV (human T-cell lymphotropic virus-type III/lymphadenopathy-associated virus), later named HIV. Secretary Heckler went on to express her hope of a cure within two years.
Those matter of fact words that were spoken to me still echoes decades later. A close friend faced an uncertain future as a hemophiliac in the mid-1980’s. When asked about his concern over the blood transfusions he regularly needed, his answer came with a sense of acceptance—but not one of defeat.
Sadly, within just a few years, he received blood tainted with HIV. Most everyone living with hemophilia at that time in my home state of South Carolina contracted the virus from that infected supply.
He was the second in our rural area to succumb to AIDS. Performing at his funeral, my wife and I chose a song he often sang during his difficult years. As she sang, she stood somewhat awkwardly on her new prosthetic leg. She eventually lost the other one in 1995. Both amputations, and her now 80 surgeries resulted from a car accident in 1983. To date, she’s received 48 blood transfusions. Virtually every surgery was met with great concern not only to her but many of the nurses treating her when any of her blood touched them. Despite the odds, she has avoided any HIV contaminated blood. Through it all, our journey of shared suffering knitted us to this man’s family.
Decades later, I still learn of the cruel treatment by neighbors, friends, and even family members, as my friend’s parents cared for their son with AIDS—condemned by many to bear their sorrow in isolation. While most disabilities and diseases isolate on some level, ostracizing tragically accompanied AIDS for vast numbers. As my own caregiving journey extends now beyond three decades, I can’t imagine doing so with the harsh exclusion this family faced.
Although reports are slowly surfacing about a possible cure for a disease which dominated headlines for years, many now are unfamiliar with the terror of AIDS. A new generation remains all but unaware of the nightmare, sorrow, shame, and the heartbreak endured by so many.
In his 2019 state of the union address, President Trump proclaimed an ambitious and important goal of ending this disease within ten years. One can’t help but wonder how that affects so many family members who quietly visit a grave, memorial site, or the quilt. Is their pain eased by such a lofty goal from the President? The loss and isolation felt by so many must still fill their eyes with hot tears.
A caregiver orbits someone living with a chronic impairment or disease. Sometimes, the presumed caregiver (spouse, partner, or family member) walks away. Such was the case for many traveling the dark path of AIDS. In their moment of greatest need, the disease not only took lives, but the stigma also severed the bonds of companionship. Many served as a caregiver for a friend with AIDS abandoned by family—although they themselves carried the disease. They soldiered on, even while watching their impending fate tragically displayed in the life of a dying friend. Others grieved alone when families circled their loved one while excluding a partner.
Embracing those who suffer is problematic when demanding to first know the cause. I learned that principle when grasping the hand of a patient in a prosthetic limb clinic we partner within Ghana. Her outstretched maimed hand bore the scars of leprosy. Admittingly doing so while gulping, I took that hand—while noticing scars running up her arm and her missing leg. Hugging her, I welcomed her into the clinic as she welcomed me into a new way of embracing the suffering.
AIDS is not cured. Maybe the President is correct, and we can eliminate this disease in ten years. But we don’t have to wait ten years to embrace those—and their caregivers—who live with HIV and AIDS.
To our collective shame, too many turned their backs on the sick and dying. While treatment has improved and AIDS doesn’t garner the headlines it once did, the residual scars of abandonment remain.
Caring for the suffering, regardless of the cause, remains one of our higher aspirations. Maybe the highest. Yet, only doing so to those with lifestyles sympathetic to one’s beliefs inhibits our own hearts to expand. Through many dark roads, I’ve seen the hands of those reaching to assist me in my heartache and loss. Although often serving as a poor steward of the grace shown to me, I’ve discovered the care one receives is best honored when extended to others.
With great zeal, let us eradicate AIDS in ten years or less. Yet, with that same zeal, let us collectively embrace the suffering, and those caring for them, regardless of the cause. Afterall, our paths are linked. Loving another human being means we will most likely one day be a caregiver. Living long enough ensures we will need one.
Toronto’s Architectural “Gems” Walking Tour for a Cure
(Kitchener, ON) April 18, 2019 – Join the Toronto Chapter of the Huntington Society of Canada for the Annual Wiswell Family Gems Walk. Every year, the group gathers in a different neighbourhood to explore the fascinating history that can be found within Toronto’s beautiful architecture. This year’s 90-minute walk will feature Toronto’s Towers and how they have changed over the last century. The walk will close with a social at the Elephant and Castle for participants to reminisce about the walk and meet other families affected by Huntington disease (HD). This event is the inspiration of a local Toronto resident, Jim Wiswell, a lover of city’s neighbourhoods who suffers from HD.
What? Annual Wiswell Family Gems Walk + Social
When? Sunday, April 28, 2019, Meet at 1:00 p.m., Walk at 2:00 p.m., Social at 4:00 p.m.
Where? Walk: Meet at David Pecaut Square, opposite the Royal Alexandra Theatre, 260 King St. West
Huntington disease (HD) is a debilitating brain disorder that is fatal and incurable. About one in every 7,000 Canadians has HD and approximately one in every 5,500 is at-risk of developing the disease. Many more are touched by HD whether as a caregiver, a family member, or a friend. Huntington disease is often described as having the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and ALS – simultaneously. As the disease progresses, a person with Huntington’s become less able to manage movements, recall events, make decisions and control emotions. The disease leads to incapacitation and, eventually, death.
The Huntington Society of Canada (HSC) is a respected leader in the worldwide effort to find a meaningful treatment for Huntington disease. HSC is the only Canadian health charity dedicated to providing help and hope for families dealing with Huntington disease across Canada.
The year was 1979. The Village People had just released ‘YMCA’ and Gloria Gaynor had a hit with ‘I Will Survive.’ Disco fashions and feathered hair were popular among men and women, and there was more emphasis than ever on physical appearance with the rise of exercise as a hobby.
GoodLife Fitness launched its first club in London, Ontario in 1979 just as fitness was going mainstream in a big way. More people were taking up bodybuilding thanks to the endorsement of Arnold Schwarzenegger. Treadmills moved from the doctor’s office to the gym as a way to incorporate recreational running into daily lives. The stage was set for Jane Fonda and Richard Simmons to get people stepping and kicking to the music.
Maureen ‘Mo’ Hagan, a licensed physiotherapist and vice president of program innovation with GoodLife Fitness, has been dedicated to group fitness since aerobics went mainstream in the early ‘80s. Hagan mastered the most popular aerobics workouts then adapted them with her own style and physio training to create classes for GoodLife Fitness clubs.
Although there have been fads over her nearly 40 years with the company, Hagan says certain types of fitness classes remain popular because they’re effective, entertaining and can be easily delivered by a variety of instructors, who are properly trained to teach group fitness. Here are some of Hagan’s favourite types of group fitness over four decades:
Aerobics: Aerobic exercise has fundamental elements that are still part of many group fitness workouts today – cardio (aerobic) exercise remains a great way to burn calories and improve heart health, the upbeat music and fun instructors make workouts more appealing and ‘express’ timeframe means it’s easier to fit a workout into your busy schedule.
Dance-inspired fitness – Jazzercise kicked off the dance fitness trend in 1984, combining great music and high tempo dance moves. In the ‘90s, Columbian dance instructor Beto Perez took dance-inspired workouts to a new level by combining Latin dance moves with great music and lots of opportunities for instructors to include their own personal touches. These variables made Zumba a huge hit. Today dance workouts feature the latest club moves and keep people moving to the beat while having fun.
Martial arts-inspired fitness – Billy Blanks brought martial arts to the forefront with Tae Bo in the 1990s. People loved getting active with action moves from their favourite kung-fu movies. Martial-arts added the entertainment value people crave to take their minds off how hard they’re working. Kickboxing and martial arts remain popular today as a way to build cardio and strength with extra attitude and a positive mindset.
Spinning – Cyclist Johnny Goldberg was the first to introduce spinning as a form of fitness in 1987. He designed the first spin bike and introduced a class that delivered extreme cardio in a fun, high energy environment. Spinning has since been adapted to focus more on overall conditioning high-intensity interval training. It still relies on high energy music and a lot of personality from its instructors to deliver the fun factor.
Yoga & Pilates – While yoga has been around forever, it only hit the mainstream in recent years as Baby Boomers looked for an effective workout that would tone and strengthen while minimizing injury. Both yoga and Pilates are now extremely popular with Boomers and Millennials alike who are looking to build strength, flexibility, and stamina while enjoying mindfulness and stress release.
Mo Hagan, and fitness experts in your area are available to talk more about the fads that failed, as well as the fundamental programs that have lasted four decades.
GoodLife group fitness instructors across Canada are available to do a high energy ‘dance evolution’ style demonstration of moves from fundamental group fitness movements since 1979 – from aerobics to Zumba, to martial arts and yoga/Pilates. We’ll provide the retro-music
Can cannabis use help with sleep apnea, weaken immune response and alter breathing tests?
The Lung Association - Ontario and Tetra Bio-Pharma research award recipients hope to help fill gaps in knowledge
TORONTO, April 16, 2019 /CNW/ - With the recent legalization of recreational cannabis in Canada, a major gap has been revealed, and that is a lack of scientific research on the health effects of its use – both on the recreational and medical side.
The research partnership between The Lung Association - Ontario and Tetra Bio-Pharma to better support patients and healthcare providers with evidence-based information about the impact of cannabis use has gotten off the ground with the announcement of the three research grant recipients. The winners were announced at The Lung Association – Ontario's Breathe! Bash held on March 28th.
The three new research investigations are:
Dr. Jeremy Hirota from McMaster University will be determining if smoking cannabis increases the risk of viral respiratory tract infections.
Dr. Tetyana Kendzerska from The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, University of Ottawa will be filling the knowledge gap on the effects of recreational cannabis on obstructive sleep apnea, one of the most common disorders of sleep.
Dr. Nicholas Vozoris from St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto will be examining if smoking cannabis affects breathing tests, and if doctors should be using these tests when seeing patients with lung troubles who smoke cannabis.
These important research projects will ensure there is a larger evidence-base to pull from when educating the public and healthcare providers about the impact of cannabis use on lung health.
"Cannabis is a very polarizing topic, but as scientists we should approach things with data, with experiments to test hypotheses, and then based on the data make an informed decision," said Dr. Jeremy Hirota, Assistant Professor, McMaster University.
"Despite promising initial findings, there is a need for studies comparing the acute effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) on respiratory disturbances during sleep and daytime alertness in people with obstructive sleep apnea in order to provide initial insights about potential mechanisms of action and to inform subsequent trials with longer treatment periods," said Dr. Tetyana Kendzerska, Associate Professor, The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, University of Ottawa.
"While it is known that cannabis smoking can lead to respiratory symptoms and lung tissue damage in a similar manner as cigarette smoking can, many studies so far have curiously failed to show that smoking cannabis negatively affects lung function testing," said Dr. Nicholas Vozoris, Associate Scientist, St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto. "Further investigation is urgently needed to clarify if this is indeed the case, and if this is the case, then understanding why the difference between cigarettes and cannabis. I am grateful to The Lung Association for supporting this important area of respiratory research."
According to George Habib, President & CEO, The Lung Association Ontario, "The results of these projects will ensure that healthcare providers and the public have the evidence they need to better inform the decisions they make on behalf of their patients or themselves around the use of cannabis."
"We are delighted by the considerable interest and scope of novel submissions that were received from healthcare professionals for this research grant," said Dr. Guy Chamberland, CEO and CSO of Tetra Bio-Pharma. "Not only are we excited to partner with the Lung Association - Ontario on expanding the scientific data available on the medical use of cannabis, but these projects demonstrate the ingenuity of Canadian investigators in areas that have the potential to impact the lives of many individuals with lung-related health conditions. We can't wait to see what is discovered."
About The Lung Association – Ontario The Lung Association - Ontario is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping all Ontarians breathe. Our community of donors, patients, researchers, volunteers and professional staff work to ensure Ontarians have healthy lungs, bodies and clean air necessary to breathe. We achieve this by promoting healthy breathing, supporting those living with lung disease and finding future solutions. All of this is done with the goal of delivering a future of better breathing for all.
About Tetra Bio-Pharma Inc. Tetra Bio-Pharma (TSX-V: TBP) (OTCQB: TBPMF) is a biopharmaceutical leader in cannabinoid-derived drug discovery and development with a Health Canada approved, and FDA reviewed, clinical program aimed at bringing novel prescription drugs and treatments to patients and their healthcare providers. The Company has several subsidiaries engaged in the development of an advanced and growing pipeline of Bio Pharmaceuticals, Natural Health and Veterinary Products containing cannabinoid-derived molecules and other medicinal plant-based elements. With patients at the core of what we do, Tetra Bio-Pharma is focused on providing rigorous scientific validation and safety data required for inclusion into the existing bio pharma industry by regulators, physicians and insurance companies. For more information visit: www.tetrabiopharma.com
SOURCE Ontario Lung Association
Rapid Dose Therapeutics and TFB & Associates Ltd. Sign Agreement for the Sale and Distribution of Innovative Quickstrip™ Nutraceutical Product Line Across Canada
BURLINGTON, ON, April 16, 2019 /CNW/ - Rapid Dose Therapeutics Corp. ("RDT" or the "Company") (CSE: DOSE), a Canadian life sciences company focused on innovative drug and active ingredient delivery solutions, is pleased to announce it has signed a Distribution Agreement with TFB & Associates Ltd. ("TFB") dated April 4, 2019 (the "Agreement") granting TFB preferred rights to distribute and sell RDT's QuickStrip™, an innovative, proprietary delivery technology for nutraceuticals to the Over The Counter Canadian retail market.
Under the terms of the Agreement, TFB will purchase, build inventory, market and distribute RDT's line of QuickStrip™ nutraceutical products across all Canadian retail outlets, including but not limited to, chain and independent pharmacies, mass merchants, health food stores, grocery and convenience stores.
RDT's proprietary QuickStrip™ technology is a Quick, Convenient, Precise, Discreet™ oral, fast-dissolving drug delivery system offering consumers an alternative to pills, capsules, drinks and injections. The QuickStrip™ nutraceutical product line delivers vitamin B12, caffeine and melatonin — penetrating the vitamin, energy and sleep consumer markets.
TFB is a long-standing privately owned importer and distributor of food, beverage and health care products, bringing a wealth of knowledge, experience and success launching new brands into the retail market.
"Our strategic relationship with TFB allows RDT to launch our QuickStrip™ brand of nutraceutical products in retail stores across Canada — offering consumers a novel way to take their vitamins and supplements. This Agreement will provide QuickStrip™ brand awareness and access to targeted locations and consumers in the rapidly growing nutraceutical market," said Mark Upsdell, CEO. "Our relationship with TFB further strengthens and positions QuickStrip™ for accelerated growth as an innovative global brand and delivery system to consumers with a focus on health and wellness."
"We are very excited to work with Rapid Dose Therapeutics in launching their brand in the Canadian retail marketplace," said Brian Riddell, Vice-president, Healthcare, TFB. "This new product brings innovation to the category with a quick and easy way to administer B12, Caffeine and Melatonin, something we haven't seen before. With a strong consumer awareness strategy and a strategic retail launch plan in place, we look forward to bringing this product to the Canadian consumer."
About Rapid Dose Therapeutics
Rapid Dose Therapeutics Corp. is a publicly-traded Canadian life sciences company that provides innovative, proprietary drug delivery technologies designed to improve outcomes and quality of lives. RDT offers Quick, Convenient, Precise and Discreet™ choices to consumers. RDT is focused and committed to clinical research and product development for the healthcare manufacturing industry, including nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and cannabis industries. Within the cannabis sector, RDT provides a turn-key Managed Strip Service Program which enables RDT's QuickStrip™ proprietary drug delivery technology to be licensed by select partners. RDT's service based annuity contracts drive recurring revenue which enables rapid expansion into emerging markets — generating value for consumers and shareholders. Rapid Dose Therapeutics is committed to continually create innovative solutions aimed at multiple consumer segments and future market needs — including humans, animals and plants.
CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: Certain information in this news release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws.
Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "expect", "potential", "believe", "intend", "will", "could", "are planned to", "are expected to" or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Statements containing forward-looking information, including, without limitation, in respect of the delivery of equipment and products using the QuickStrip™ product delivery method and the generation of revenues from signed White Label Manufacturing Agreements, express, as at the date of this news release, the plans, estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations or beliefs of RDT management as to future events or results and are believed to be reasonable based on information currently available to RDT management. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks, including, without limitation, risks associated with general economic conditions; adverse industry events; marketing costs; loss of markets; termination of WLM agreements; future legislative and regulatory developments involving cannabis; inability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources, and/or inability to access sufficient capital on favourable terms; the cannabis industry in Canada generally, income tax and regulatory matters; the ability to implement its business strategies; competition; currency and interest rate fluctuations and other risks. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive. There can be no assurance that statements of forward-looking information, although considered reasonable by RDT management at the time of preparation, will prove to be accurate as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are based will occur. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.
World’s First 3D-printed Heart with Human Tissue
Hope for Millions of Americans with Heart disease
Each minute of every day, more than one person will die from a heart-related event. The American Heart Association reported that in 2019 more than 100,000 Americans were in need of a heart transplant, but only 3,244 were able to receive the transplant. The CDC states that 49% of Americans have at least 1 of the 3 main risk factors in developing heart disease. In cases of end-stage heart failure, the only option of potentially life-saving treatment is a heart transplant. Joining us in this discussion is Eddie Fatakhov, M.D. and author of the new book “Dr. Fat Off: simple Life-Long Weight-Loss Solutions.”
Q&A:
Why is it important to have this technology how many people are affected with heart disease?
Answer: According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. The American Heart Association reported that in 2019 more than 100,000 Americans in need of a heart transplant, but only 3,244 were able to receive the transplant.
Heart transplants can save the lives of those with failing hearts. The Mayo Clinic reports that there are approximately 3,000 people in the United States waiting for heart transplants. Having this technology can help the suffering of people with End-Stage Heart Failure.
How is this different from other 3D transplant technologies?
Answer: This is the first that has built a full organ including human cells including vessels, matrix, chambers and ventricles so rejection will not occur. Other organs that have been printed successfully are much simpler, including bladders, ears, blood vessels, and windpipes.
Given we are 10 years away, how can we use this technology today to help people with heart disease?
Answer: This technology can be used sooner than 10 years as this technology can be used as a patch in damaged hearts versus full heart transplantation.
What can people do to prevent heart disease in the first place?
Answer: People need to modify their diet, increase their physical activity, and stop eating fast food. Making a few small changes to a person’s lifestyle can prevent some of the most dangerous diseases in the world.
Where do you see this technology being used in the future?
Answer: We can expect this to see be seen at every hospital across the nation where patients can come in for an office visit get a biopsy for his tissue and have his organ printed and surgery scheduled.
Where may we get a copy of your book “Dr. Fat Off: simple Life-Long Weight-Loss Solution” and the latest tips on dieting, healthy living and preventing heart disease.
Dr. Eddie Fatakhov, M.D. is a board-certified internal medicine physician, nutritionist, best-selling author, and wellness expert. Dr. Fatakhov is the author of “Dr. Fat Off: Simple Life-Long Weight-Loss Solutions,” “The Doctors’ Clinic-30 Program,” and contributing author to “Internal Medicine: Guide to Residency.” Dr. Fatakhov has been published in U.S. News & World Report and featured on CNN and syndicated radio shows.
In a new interview with CMRubinWorld, the renowned founder of Design for Change says her 4 step framework, “I Can,” is key to a desirable and sustainable future.
NEW YORK (PRWEB) APRIL 16, 2019
Feel, Imagine, Do, Share -- the FIDS Framework -- is the brainchild of Design for Change Founder Kiran Bir Sethi. Sethi, a teacher and principal at the Riverside Education Foundation in India, created the simple 4 step program for 8 - 13 year old children. It is the starting point for teaching youth their 5 Es: Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Elevation and Evolution, with the key goal of nurturing more creative, empathetic and responsible citizens.
In a new interview with C.M. Rubin, founder of CMRubinWorld, Sethi discusses how the FIDS Framework was first launched and sent to 30,000 schools across India. The program positions children as “our today” and aims to provide them with “all the ingredients to make the world a better place.”
Today, Design for Change is used in over 65 countries by approximately 60,000 schools. “The framework has allowed so many schools and teachers to get excited that they can,” says Sethi. “When children are listened to and given that respect, we see them take ownership for the change and in that we see them design with communities rather than for.”
Kiran Bir Sethi is a Graphic Designer, former Teacher and Principal, an Education Reformer and the Founder of Design for Change. Her globally recognized award-winning program is currently used in 60,000 schools in 65 countries.
CMRubinWorld’s award-winning series, The Global Search for Education, brings together distinguished thought leaders in education and innovation from around the world to explore the key learning issues faced by most nations. The series has become a highly visible platform for global discourse on 21st century learning, offering a diverse range of innovative ideas which are presented by the series founder, C. M. Rubin, together with the world’s leading thinkers.
Eating KETO? Conquer Sugar Cravings Without Compromising Taste
Safe for most diets, all natural jel and pudding desserts are simple to make, more fun to share
SAN DIEGO, California – (April 16, 2019):Simply Delish All Natural Jel Desserts and puddings are the ideal sweet treat for KETO diet fans. Originating in South Africa and now a beloved U.S. household brand since 2002, Simply Delish is committed to creating plant-based, Non-GMO Verified, sugar-free, lactose-free and guilt-free desserts that capture the flavors of nature making it the perfect treat for adults and kids alike.
Crafted without preservatives or artificial colors and naturally low in carbohydrates, Simply Delish is the perfect cheat-free treat for KETO and vegan dieters and those with food sensitivities. The gluten and gelatin-free Simply Delish natural Jel desserts have zero carbs, only 5 calories per serving, and features fresh summertime flavors to suit every craving: strawberry, raspberry, orange and peach, and their non-dairy Pudding Desserts in creamy vanilla, decadent chocolate, and sweet strawberry. What makes these puddings so unique is they can be prepared with Coconut Milk, Almond Milk, Soy Milk or any plant-based milk you like.
Every box of Simply Delish is simple to make and even more, fun to share. Each delectable flavor is approved for most diets, including Kosher, Halaal and gluten-free. Make every meal a celebration or choose Simply Delish as the ideal, worry-free addition to any summer barbecue or graduation party.
Curb sugar cravings and keep on-track with KETO by adding Simply Delish All Natural Jel Desserts and non-dairy Pudding to the grocery list. Visit SimplyDelish.netto shop every flavor and get free shipping with a purchase of six or more.
About Simply Delish:
Simply Delish’s vegan Jel desserts and non-dairy Puddings are crafted without added sugar, GMOs, preservatives or artificial colors and naturally low in carbohydrates, Simply Delish is the perfect treat for adults and kids alike. Their Jels have zero carbs and only have 5 calories per serving which cater to a wide variety of individuals, from Keto lifestyle consumers, Fitness enthusiasts, Diabetes to someone looking to make Vegan Jel Shots for their next get together. Visit www.simplydelish.net to learn more about the Simply Delish range of Jels and Puddings. You can also find them online through their website as well as Amazon.com and at Whole Foods, Jewel supermarkets or one of over 1,000 independent natural food stores nationwide.
12 Canada Finalists Compete in IsaBody Challenge to Win $10,000
Health and Wellness Contest Winner to Be Announced this month in Ontario
GILBERT, Ariz. (April 2019) — In a few short days, Isagenix International, a global health and wellness company providing nutrition and lifestyle solutions, will crown the Canada winner of its annual total-body transformation program, the IsaBody Challenge®. The latest Judging Period’s 12 finalists include Drake Siesling of Barrie, Ontario; Francois Newbury of Cantley, Quebec; Jacques Robert of Calgary, Alberta; Jesse Gabrielle of Regina, Saskatchewan; Kary Odiatu of Unionville, Ontario; Katrina Simons of Kamloops, British Columbia; Martin Bolduc of North Vancouver, British Columbia; Mert Karakilic of Coquitlam, British Columbia; Stacey Boivin of Calgary, Alberta; Teresa Peters of Edmonton, Alberta; Chera Harris of Kelowna, British Columbia; and Kim Bell of Calgary, Alberta.
These 12 individuals were selected out of the thousands of people across Canada who completed the IsaBody Challenge during the most recent Judging Period. Each finalist has won CA$3,000 and the chance to compete for the grand prize of CA$10,000. Finalists will also receive a CA$200 product coupon, a photo shoot, an all-expenses-paid trip to the IsaBody™ Escape for themselves and a guest, and other prizes to recognize their achievements.
Each finalist will be introduced onstage at the Isagenix Canada Celebration 2019 event this month in Ottawa, Ontario, in front of thousands of attendees.
“This diverse group of finalists from across Canada has demonstrated significant dedication and commitment to transforming their lives,” said Travis Ogden, chief executive officer of Isagenix. “We’re proud to honor these 12 inspiring individuals — from first-time participants in a fitness program to seasoned athletes — for the changes they’ve created by pairing discipline with our exceptional nutrition solutions. Isagenix congratulates each of them and wishes them ongoing success in their wellness journeys.”
Meet the Finalists
Drake Siesling, Ontario
Age: 34
Total Challenges completed: 7
Total weight loss over completed Challenges: 23 pounds*
Between working his usual 9-to-5 job and helping his wife renovate and expand her gym, Drake is a busy man. Throw in being a brand-new dad to his daughter who was born last August, and he’s never been busier. Still, Drake has made time to work out harder and more consistently than he ever has before so he’ll be ready to compete in a fitness competition later this year. It’s hard to believe he can balance so much, but he says it’s possible thanks to the nutrition solutions and support he finds with Isagenix.
Francois Newbury, Quebec
Age: 39
Total Challenges completed: 1
Total weight loss during completed Challenge: 12 pounds*Francois found himself overwhelmed as a father and husband on top of being an engineer by day and pseudo-entrepreneur by night. He was chasing the wrong people and wrong endeavors, and the stress sent him into a constant fight-or-flight mode. His kids, wife, and clients deserved nothing less than his best, but that wasn’t what they were getting — until Francois committed to the IsaBody Challenge. The mental and physical changes he made as a participant completely reshaped his life, allowing him to be the best man he could be.
Jacques Robert, Alberta
Age: 57
Total Challenges completed: 9
Total weight loss over completed Challenges: 7 pounds*Since his first Challenge in October 2012, Jacques has come a long way. The part of his transformation he values the most is his new mindset. He doesn’t have to think about the steps he takes daily to better his overall health and wellness; they’re second nature, just like brushing his teeth or driving his car. His habits for eating clean, remaining physically active, and growing his spiritual and social connections are also no-brainers, and life keeps getting better and better every day.
Jesse Gabrielle, Saskatchewan
Age: 21
Total Challenges completed: 1
Total weight gain during completed Challenge: 20 pounds of lean muscle*Seeing his mom struggle with poor health and low self-esteem broke Jesse’s heart, so he decided to look for a nutrition program they could do together. He found Isagenix, and the products helped Jesse, a hockey player, crush his goals while his mom turned her health around. His dad later joined them, completely transforming his health as well, and he gave Jesse the confidence he needed to do more. Jesse says his mom and dad have sacrificed a lot so he could become a pro athlete, but he’d trade it all for the healthy parents he has today. Now, he’s helping other parents and fellow athletes with Isagenix.
Kary Odiatu, Ontario
Age: 49
Total Challenges completed: 7
Total weight loss over completed Challenges: 30 pounds*After spending most of her time in the hospital with her son who was in ill health, the stress began to take its toll on Kary. She was introduced to Isagenix and decided she had nothing to lose. Taking steps to improve her health allowed Kary to feel calm for the first time in years, and at the age of 49 (after having five babies!), she has the lean physique she once had as a top fitness athlete. More importantly, she’s had the strength to turn tragedy into an opportunity to counsel others and give back to the hospital that helped her son.
Katrina Simons, British Columbia
Age: 54
Total Challenges completed: 12
Total weight loss over completed Challenges: 45 pounds*Growing up, Katrina had always been told she wasn’t good enough, but that didn’t keep her from loving life. She was a social butterfly and excelled as an athlete, which made her feel worthwhile. When she got older, that suddenly didn’t work anymore. She felt like she was losing herself until she found Isagenix. Through this Challenge, Katrina has not only reclaimed her life but has also discovered the power of her Isagenix family, whose support has been invaluable during her journey.
Kim Bell, Alberta
Age: 43
Total Challenges completed: 2
Total weight loss over completed Challenges: 15 pounds*As a child, Kim always imagined what her life was going to be like when she grew up. She imagined days full of happiness, adventures, and most importantly, love. Unfortunately, a toxic relationship left Kim still searching for this life. In her quest for happiness, she noticed a friend was using Isagenix and thriving. Kim tried the products and felt like she had an extra spring in her step. She suddenly knew that this was the right next move for her. With the help of the IsaBody Challenge and its community, she continued to get stronger physically and mentally. Today, she and her son are happier and closer than they have ever been.
Martin Bolduc, British Columbia
Age: 53
Total Challenges completed: 8
Total weight loss over completed Challenges: 15 pounds*As a cancer survivor, Martin can say from experience that health is wealth, so he’s doing everything he can to stay as healthy as he can be. At the age of 53, he feels like he’s in his 20s and is focusing on being a good role model for his 11-year-old son so they can keep skiing, hiking, ice skating, and playing tennis together. Martin never thought he’d be able to stay lean year-round, sleep deeply, and wake up pain-free each day, but he now believes he has the tools in his life (and kitchen) to help him do just that.
Mert Karakilic, British Columbia
Age: 41
Total Challenges completed: 9
Total weight loss over completed Challenges: 130 pounds*From the outside looking in, this dad of two had achieved much in life. He was confident and happy and had a great family. But, what he’d been putting off all those years was working on his physical well-being. Mert had reached 321 pounds, and one day, the question hit him: Would he be healthy enough to watch his kids grow up? That thought stopped Mert in his tracks, and today, he’s never looked or felt better in his life. He’s now the superhero his family always knew he could be.
Stacey Boivin, Alberta
Age: 44
Total Challenges completed: 5
Total weight loss over completed Challenges: 22 pounds*Stacey’s life is busy. She’s working full time, building her Isagenix business, prepping for fitness competitions, and being a mom. With the help of Isagenix and the IsaBody Challenge, she’s able to keep it all under control and feel her best. All she needs to start her day is an IsaLean™ Shake, and she has the complete nutrition she needs to fuel her body, get her family ready to face the day, and share the products that keep her going.
Teresa Peters, Alberta
Age: 53
Total Challenges completed: 7
Total weight loss over completed Challenges: 125 pounds*Teresa knows that when you rise, it can leave you in a position to fall. After successfully losing 100 pounds, Teresa suffered more losses than she thought she could handle: her career, a sister, and the person she thought she would marry. She reverted to old habits and regained those 100 pounds. Finally, she made the decision to make herself a priority, and with the help of this IsaBody Challenge, shed 125 pounds.* Her Isagenix community is her family and has helped her realize that when you rise, you may stumble, but if you take it as an opportunity to learn, you will not fail.
Chera Harris, British Columbia
Age: 43
Total Challenges completed: 4
Total weight loss over completed Challenges: 95 pounds* This single mom put her health on the back burner for six years. Money was always tight, and she thought she couldn’t justify spending anything on reclaiming her body and wellness. Then one day, she realized she could no longer ignore the discomfort that came with weight gain. She finally said yes to making herself a priority. With the support of her Isagenix community, she is no longer a prisoner to the scale. Instead, she’s focused on being the best version of herself she can be.
To read more about the finalists and see their before and after photos, visit the Isagenix blog. To learn more about Isagenix, visit the Newsroom, like the company on Facebook, and follow it on Twitter and Instagram.
*Weight loss, muscle gain, lifestyle, and other results depicted here reflect exceptional individual experiences of Isagenix customers and should not be construed as typical or average. Results vary with individual effort, body composition, eating patterns, time, exercise, and other factors, such as genetic and physiological makeup. A two-phase 2016 study published by researchers at Skidmore College showed an average weight loss of 24 pounds after 12 weeks. The study evaluated the use of Isagenix products in men and women for weight loss followed by weight maintenance. During the weight maintenance phase, the subjects who continued the calorie-controlled program using Isagenix products better maintained their weight loss in comparison to those who transitioned to a traditional diet after 52 weeks.
About the IsaBody Challenge
The IsaBody Challenge is a 16-week contest that rewards participants for their total-body and life transformations. Participants are judged on their before and after photos as well as their personal essays describing their journeys. The contest looks for the most inspirational and motivational stories about how participants have made healthy body and life transformations. The IsaBody Challenge is open to all Isagenix customers and members over the age of 18 in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Mexico, Singapore, Malaysia, Colombia, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, and South Korea. For more information, visit the IsaBody Challenge page.
About Isagenix International
Established in 2002, Isagenix provides systems for weight loss, performance, vitality and well-being, personal care and beauty, and financial wellness. With nearly 600,000 customers worldwide and more than 100 life-changing products, packs, and systems globally, the company is committed to producing Solutions to Transform Lives™. Isagenix shares its products and solutions through a network of independent distributors in 18 markets: the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Mexico, Singapore, Malaysia, Colombia, Indonesia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, and South Korea. Isagenix is a privately owned company with headquarters in Gilbert, Arizona. For more information, visit Isagenix.com.
Coca-Cola looks to capitalize on growing Indian sports drinks market with Powerade relaunch, says GlobalData
Following the recent news that The Coca-Cola Company plans to relaunch its sports drink Powerade in India within the next two months as part of its strategy to compete with PepsiCo’s Gatorade,
Shagun Sachdeva, Consumer Insights Analyst at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers her view:
“The news comes as no surprise as the demand for functional sports drinks is growing exponentially in India and resonates well with millennials. Coca-Cola, being one of the country’s leading beverage companies, is now looking to tap into this category and increase its non-aerated drinks portfolio.
“Powerade, which registered billion dollar plus sales globally, is currently available in India through imports. GlobalData forecasts the Indian sports drink market to grow from US$2.81bn in 2017 to US$5.87bn by 2023, propped up by healthy and better-for-you functional beverage options.
“Coca-Cola continues to embrace innovation to sustain a competitive edge and its business model relies on improving existing product lines and developing new products to meet emerging challenges. The rationale behind Powerade’s relaunch is to offer healthy beverage options, given the rise in consumer inclination towards health & wellness. With the second attempt, Coca-Cola will be able to diversify its revenue stream by gaining traction towards the section of the population who are seeking to swap soda for sports drink.
“Coca-Cola has collaborated with ICC World Cup as an official sponsor with an aim to compete with Gatorade-owner PepsiCo in India. The calculative strategy is a part of the company’s larger focus to evolve into a total beverage company by investing around $5bn by 2020 and making India its third largest market. This is the second time Coca-Cola is trying to launch Powerade in the country."
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