Optimi Health Dealer’s License Granted by Health Canada
Optimi Health to become a global leader in all-natural psilocybin production
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 07, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Optimi Health Corp. (CSE: OPTI) (OTCQB: OPTHF) (FRA: 8BN) (“Optimi” or the “Company”), developers of a vertically integrated mushroom brand targeting functional and novel psychedelic compounds for the health and wellness sector, is pleased to report that Optimi Labs Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Optimi Health Corp, been granted a Dealer’s License by Health Canada.
The Dealer’s License allows for possession, production, assembling, sale, and delivery of psilocybin within the regulated framework set forth by Health Canada. Optimi will now launch vertically integrated operations at its facility in Princeton, B.C. Once fully commercialized, Optimi’s purpose-built, 10,000 sq. ft. EU GMP-compliant research and production facility will be dedicated to cultivating, extracting, and processing the highest-grade all-natural psilocybin in North America. Guiding Optimi’s stringent research and drug development process, the Company’s GMP and EU-GMP-compliant facility will expand its domestic and global reach in compliance with Health Canada regulations and favourable international regulatory regimes.
“This is a proud and exciting moment for all of us at Optimi,” exclaimed Bryan Safarik, COO and Director of Optimi. He continued, “We purposely overbuilt this facility surpassing clean room pharma grade specifications, allowing us to grow and process the purest, most consistent, safest, and efficacious mushrooms in the industry. I have always believed in our ability to be a Canadian leader in the production of natural-grade psilocybin, so I am truly grateful for all the hard work, insight, and continued effort to get this world-class facility commissioned.” Safarik also praised Health Canada’s leadership role in working with Canadian drug producers as they continue to expand the science and safety of therapeutic psilocybin mushrooms through research and clinical trials.
As noted in the recently filed annual financials, as of September 30, 2021, $8,586,465 CAD in cumulative expenditures were incurred in connection with the construction of the combined 20,000 sq. ft. facilities. Optimi’s Dealer’s License EU GMP-compliant facility contains an impressive Region III, Schedule 8 security level vault capable of securing 1,250kg of psilocybin which carries an approximate value of $53MM CDN. Other features include an Argus environmental control system which provides software and hardware features for real-time monitoring and optimization, advanced HVAC equipment and controls, fire suppression, clean room technology, 700KW backup electrical power systems, robust chain-link fencing with smart system technology including perimeter intrusion detection, wireless gate access and magnetic locks.
Optimi is poised to become the only large-scale Canadian manufacturer, and the premier supplier, of all-natural psilocybin therapies to patients, research groups, universities, licensed clinics and holders of other Dealer’s Licenses and Section 56 exemptions in Canada. While the prescription model of psilocybin delivery is dependent on further clinical trial data from the industry, Optimi will be able to supply patients by way of their physicians and the Special Access Program today. The Company has begun outreach to potential psilocybin clients in Canada and is actively seeking commercial opportunities for its products in select markets with favourable regulatory regimes.
With Health Canada’s recent amendment of the Special Access Program, physicians will be able to request patient access to restricted psychoactive substances like psilocybin and MDMA for psychedelic-assisted therapy. Optimi is taking an active leadership role in finding solutions for the ongoing Canadian mental health crisis, including access to psilocybin for therapeutic purposes. Furthermore, Optimi is committed to being proactive concerning education about the safety and efficacy of psychedelic medicines and this is exemplified through its initial phase 1 dosing study.
“Optimi is focused on providing safe, pure and reliable psychedelic products for all those in need,” said Bill Ciprick, CEO. “Achieving our approved Dealer’s License is a significant milestone in our journey to becoming a leader in the psychedelic industry. We look forward to providing further communications over the coming weeks as production begins, and our 2022 growth strategy is deployed.”
Additionally, Optimi will host an official ribbon-cutting event, late spring, to showcase its state-of-the-art facility and team leadership. The event will be coordinated around all public health protocols established during that time to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved.
On Behalf of the Board of Directors,
Bill Ciprick Chief Executive Officer Optimi Health Corp.
ABOUT OPTIMI (CSE: OPTI) (OTCQB: OPTHF) (FRA: 8BN)
Optimi is developing a sophisticated mushroom brand that focuses on the health and wellness markets. With a vertically integrated approach, Optimi intends to cultivate, extract, process and distribute high quality functional and psychedelic mushroom products at its two facilities comprising a total of 20,000 square feet nearing completion in Princeton, British Columbia. To fully investigate the science of mushrooms, the Company has received a research exemption under Health Canada Food and Drug Regulations (FDR) for the use of Psilocybin and Psilocin for scientific purposes via its wholly owned subsidiary Optimi Labs Inc. Optimi has also been granted a dealer’s license under Canada’s Narcotic Control Regulations governing possession, distribution, sale, laboratory analysis of and research and development of Psilocybin and Psilocin formulations. Optimi is committed to expert cultivation and quality production subject to and in accordance with the terms of all applicable laws and governing regulations to ensure safe, superior Canadian fungi production. Find out more at: https://optimihealth.ca/.
This news release contains forward‐looking statements and forward‐looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, "forward‐looking statements") that relate to Optimi’s current expectations and views of future events. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result," "are expected to," "expects," "will continue," "is anticipated," "anticipates," "believes," "estimated," "intends," "plans," "forecast," "projection," "strategy," "objective," and "outlook") are not historical facts and may be forward‐looking statements and may involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in such forward‐looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward‐looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. In particular and without limitation, this news release contains forward‐ looking statements pertaining to activities proposed to be conducted under the Company’s dealer’s license and associated business related to Psilocybin and Psilocin and Optimi’s plans, focus and objectives.
Forward‐looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Optimi’s control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward‐looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the impact and progression of the COVID‐19 pandemic and other factors set forth under “Forward‐Looking Statements" and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual information Form dated January 12, 2022, and other continuous disclosure filings available under Optimi’s profile at www.sedar.com. Optimi undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward‐looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Optimi to predict all of them or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward‐looking statement. Any forward‐looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Numbers Reveal COVID Lockdown’s Human Toll
St. Paul, MN, Feb. 7, 2022 — How does a nation, and a world, respond to one of the greatest public health crises of our times? And at what cost?
With the logic of a lawyer and the scientific expertise of an immunologist, Hugh McTavish, J.D., Ph.D., walks readers through the COVID-19 pandemic and the policy decisions that were made to keep the virus in check in his eye-opening book, COVID Lockdown Insanity. Dr. McTavish’s fact-filled exploration reaches beyond the simple metrics of case and death counts and reveals the unsettling consequences of society’s responses to this disease. His careful examination of the scientific evidence related to COVID-19 transmission and his analyses of both the human and economic costs of the lockdown strategy illuminate the dysfunctionality of the government’s policy response. In the end, he lights a path toward making more enlightened decisions that offer hope of real solutions.
In the book, Dr. McTavish dissects the data that shows:
- The COVID lockdowns threw 63 million Americans into major depression.
- All evidence suggests that the lockdown response to COVID failed to decrease COVID deaths at all.
- Even if the lockdowns prevented 200,000 COVID deaths, which they probably did not, the lockdowns caused more loss of life in increased suicides, drug overdose deaths, cancer deaths and heart disease deaths than they saved in prevented COVID deaths.
- For every 1 COVID death prevented, the lockdowns caused these harms: 1/3 of a death of despair (suicide or drug overdose); 316 people thrown into major depression; 127 people out of work; 350 students out of school; 1,640 people denied the right to live their lives as they wish.
- Mask wearing has “little or no effect” on COVID cases or deaths.
- Hand washing and hand sanitizer use is the best intervention and could dramatically reduce COVID deaths, but this was underemphasized.
- Asymptomatic people very rarely spread COVID.
- Children do not spread COVID, and closing schools had no effect on COVID spread at all, and we knew that by the summer of 2020, and CDC staff wrote a paper saying so in January 2021.
In conclusion, Dr. McTavish says, “Lockdowns have no advantage at all. If you think life is better than death, a long life is better than a shorter life, happiness is better than depression, more money is better than less, education is better than ignorance, child abuse and domestic abuse are bad things, and more personal freedom is better than less, then you agree the lockdowns were a mistake.”
Hugh McTavish is a Ph.D. biochemist and immunologist and a patent attorney. He has authored 18 refereed scientific journal articles and is the inventor of 21 U.S. patents. He has also written two prior books on public policy and nature. He has started two pharmaceutical companies off his own inventions. He lives near St. Paul, Minnesota.
COVID Lockdown Insanity: The COVID Deaths It Prevented, the Depression and Suicides it Caused, What We Should Have Done, and What It Shows We Could Do Now to Address Real Crises
Tomorrow Can’t Wait: Every Canadian Deserves Access to Breakthrough Cancer Treatments
OTTAWA, Feb. 04, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cancer ends more Canadian lives than anything else. In 2020, cancer killed 83,300 Canadians. New research from The Conference Board of Canada shows that although there are new breakthrough treatments available, many in Canada will not have access to these life-extending therapies. The report, released today on World Cancer Day, details the varied and vast barriers to access and the reform that could grant friends and family members additional years of life – many more tomorrows – if the right measures are taken today.
“The findings can empower Canadians navigating a healthcare system that is increasingly becoming an uphill battle in accessing care and treatments,” said Chad Leaver, director of the Health Knowledge Area at The Conference Board of Canada. “The treatments are available. They can give the gift of more time lived – and add value to Canada’s economy. Each added year could mean witnessing a graduation, seeing retirement or experiencing the birth of a grandchild. Our recommendations challenge health system leaders to accelerate specific reforms to broaden access to these promising innovations. The lack of equity in patient access across Canada is concerning. In comparison with other countries, we are lagging far behind."
Breakthrough treatments have ushered in the era of personalized or precision medicine. Canada’s regulatory process approves these treatments for use quickly. But the country ranks 18th in a list of 20 OECD countries in its ability to complete the complex price negotiations that ultimately allow physicians to access them for their patients through provincial plans.
Investments in risk-sharing agreements, optimizing the use of real-world evidence and diagnostic genetic testing frameworks are key to transforming approval and reimbursement of breakthrough treatments for cancer and other disease groups. Integration will require data sharing and interoperability to monitor outcomes and facilitate agile system-level decision making.
As the report unveils, Canada’s healthcare systems have an opportunity to evolve and enable forthcoming innovations in cancer care. Canada’s response to the pandemic has demonstrated that it is possible to work together to implement solutions to big problems with speed and agility.
“The cumulative benefits of breakthrough cancer treatments could add up to 226,445 life years,” adds Leaver. “Ensuring eligible and waiting patients can receive breakthrough treatments is critical to allowing more Canadians to experience more tomorrows.”
Key findings from the research:
Cancer remains the leading cause of death in Canada.
An estimated 2 in 5 Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. 1 in 4 will die from cancer.
In 2020 alone, cancer took 83,000 Canadian lives and 225,800 Canadians were diagnosed with cancer.
The enormous backlog in cancer diagnoses, caused by the pandemic, underscores the need for governments, industry and researchers to respond and accelerate change.
Treatment options in the recent past were limited to surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Breakthrough treatments can increase survival without the side effects of the early options.
Breakthrough treatments have ushered in the era of personalized or precision medicine.
These advanced therapies target genes, tissues or cells specifically responsible for cancer growth.
Canadian patients have a significant delay in accessing breakthrough treatments.
Access to breakthrough treatments in Canada is inequitable. Coverage varies between provinces; and where patients receive care within their province also matters.
With some treatments, up to 60% of Canadian patients may be eligible without having access.
Pharmaceutical coverage, coordination of care and treatment, and access to diagnostic services vary between and within provinces.
Patients in Canada also have less access to ground-breaking clinical trials which is often the earliest point of access to new advanced therapies.
Potential cumulative benefits of breakthrough cancer treatments in our study totalled 226,445 life years gained and $5.9 billion in potential economic value across five tumour types over the last decade.
The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that with urgency, speedy approvals and timely access to vaccines and treatments are possible.
Canada is slow to complete the complex price negotiations so doctors can access breakthrough treatments for their patients.
Four reforms could improve timely patient access to breakthrough cancer treatment in Canada:
Streamline government processes of health technology assessment and price negotiation to accelerate access to breakthrough treatments.
Change how these therapies are funded to facilitate value-based care and risk-sharing agreements.
Fund access to diagnostic tests when breakthrough therapies are approved.
Expand and integrate systems that collect and share data.
Policy reforms will require a clear mandate from government, accountability frameworks, funding from all sectors and a collaborative operational governance model.
About The Conference Board of Canada: The Conference Board of Canada is the country’s leading independent research organization. Our mission is to empower and inspire leaders to build a stronger future for all Canadians through our trusted research and unparalleled connections. Follow The Conference Board of Canada on Twitter @ConfBoardofCda.
WHAT THE OLYMPICS CAN TEACH THE "IKID" GENERATIONInspirational Advice From a Former Winter Olympic Hopeful & Award-Winning Author
As a kid, Carew Papritz dreamed of being in the Winter Olympics. And being raised on cross-country skiing and racing, he knew this was his way in. When Carew was 17, he attended school in Norway for a year to train and race with the best skiers in the world—the Norwegians. Many of his fellow teammates were on the Norwegian Junior Olympic team, some of them eventually medaling in the Olympics. Aspiring to be an Olympic athlete means an incredible self-motivated desire to succeed. "In this day and age, when we think we can “click” our way to success in the digital world, trying to become an Olympic athlete is exactly the opposite", says Papritz. There is no easy way except hard work, incredible determination, laser-like focus, and willingness to dedicate and sacrifice your life to something amazingly wonderful and difficult to achieve—becoming an Olympic athlete.
TALKING POINTS (FOR INTERVIEWS & ARTICLES)What the Olympics can teach us and our children about setting goals in lifeWhat the Olympics teaches us about passion and perseveranceWhy sometimes failure teaches us more about life than success3 Important Ways to Lead a Legacy Life
Even though Carew trained and raced for years, he did not make the Olympic cross-country ski team. But what those years of training and racing taught him was extraordinary perseverance and how to believe in one’s self.
Carew attributes the success of his award-winning book, The Legacy Letters, directly to his years of Olympic training. Writing a book is no different than trying to become an Olympic athlete. All the elements of self-motivation and perseverance apply.
"I have now earned my medals through my writing, attributing this success to my years of wanting to be in the Olympic games."
From his many “first-ever” book signings (such as being atop of a volcano--Mt. St. Helens–or on horseback at Barnes & Noble), to earning a Guinness World Record for the World’s Largest Envelope, in part to celebrate National Thank You Letter Day–a holiday he created to inspire gratitude and civility through hand-written letter, Carew’s innovative literary accomplishments all stem from his desire to live life to the fullest, which is the central message behind his book.
ABOUT CAREW PAPRITZ:
Carew Papritz is an educational thought-leader, literacy advocate and award-winning author of the inspirational book, The Legacy Letters. Through his innovative efforts such as the I Love to Read YouTube series and National Thank You Letter Day, Papritz has made a universal impact by being an advocate for literacy and teaching people of all ages about personal and global legacy issues.
Papritz's writing has been published in a number of media outlets including Huffpost, Inc., Reader's Digest, Fox News, Woman's World Magazine, Yahoo! News, & First Time Parent Magazine.
Rivalry Becomes One of the First Fully Registered Operators of Internet Gaming and Sports Betting in Ontario
TORONTO, Feb. 04, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rivalry Corp. (the “Company” or “Rivalry”) (TSXV: RVLY) (FSE: 9VK) (OTCQX: RVLCF), an internationally-regulated sports betting and media company, today announced that it has become one of the first fully registered operators of internet gaming and sports betting in Ontario. The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (the “AGCO”) has informed the Company that its registration has been approved.
“We are very pleased to be one of the first companies to be registered as an internet gaming operator in Ontario,” said Steven Salz, Co-Founder and CEO of Rivalry. “As a proud Toronto-founded and based company, it’s a particular privilege to be able to finally offer our innovative product legally and responsibly in our backyard. I’m confident we will deliver a differentiated experience that will elevate what consumers think sports betting can be.”
The Company continues to work with iGaming Ontario, a Government of Ontario agency which conducts and manages internet gaming in the province when provided through private gaming operators, to complete any and all final requisite steps as it prepares for launch. Last week, iGaming Ontario announced that Ontario’s new online gaming market will launch on April 4th, 2022.
About Rivalry
Rivalry Corp. wholly owns and operates Rivalry Limited, a leading sport betting and media property offering fully regulated online wagering on esports, traditional sports, and casino for the next generation of bettors. Rivalry Limited currently holds an Isle of Man license, considered one of the premier online gambling jurisdictions. Based in Toronto, Rivalry operates a global team in more than 18 countries and growing. Rivalry Limited was granted its Isle of Man license in early 2018, officially launching in August of that year, and the Company is currently in the process of obtaining additional country licenses. The Company also has a variety of originally developed products, including Quest, an on-site engagement experience, and an original casino game called Rushlane, a proprietary casino game that marks the creation of a new category for online gaming: Massively Multiplayer Online Gambling Games (MMOGG).
Company Contact: Steven Salz, Co-Founder & CEO 416-565-4713 ss@rivalry.com
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information and Statements
This news release contains certain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (“forward-looking statements”). All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “achieve”, “could”, “believe”, “plan”, “intend”, “objective”, “continuous”, “ongoing”, “estimate”, “outlook”, “expect”, “project” and similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes or that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements in respect of the Company being approved as a licensed operator of internet gaming and sports betting in Ontario and the timing of internet gaming services being launched in Ontario.
Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management of the Company at the date the statements are made based on information then available to the Company. Various factors and assumptions are applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to and involve a number of known and unknown, variables, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, which may cause the Company’s actual performance and results to differ materially from any projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include regulatory or political change such as changes in applicable laws and regulations; the ability to obtain and maintain required licenses; the esports and sports betting industry being a heavily regulated industry; the complex and evolving regulatory environment for the online gaming and online gambling industry; the success of esports and other betting products are not guaranteed; changes in public perception of the esports and online gambling industry; failure to retain or add customers; the Company having a limited operating history; negative cash flow from operations; operational risks; cybersecurity risks; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; reliance on management; reliance on third parties and third-party networks; exchange rate risks; risks related to cryptocurrency transactions; risk of intellectual property infringement or invalid claims; the effect of capital market conditions and other factors on capital availability; competition, including from more established or better financed competitors; and general economic, market and business conditions. For additional risks, please see the Company’s prospectus dated September 17, 2021 available on the Company’s SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.
No assurance can be given that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. The forward-looking information and forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information and/or forward-looking statements that are contained or referenced herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.
No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.
Source: Rivalry Corp.
In Canada, lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer, with estimates that 29,600 Canadians received a diagnosis in 20211
Tecentriq® (atezolizumab) is the first and only cancer immunotherapy approved for NSCLC in the adjuvant setting
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 4, 2022 /CNW/ - Hoffmann-La Roche Limited (Roche Canada) is pleased to announce that on January 14, 2022, Health Canada has authorized TECENTRIQ® (atezolizumab) as monotherapy for adjuvant treatment following complete resection and no progression after platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy for adult patients with stage II to IIIA* non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumours have PD-L1 expression on ≥ 50% of tumour cells (TCs).2
TECENTRIQ is a type of cancer immunotherapy treatment.2 Immunotherapy may work by helping the immune system fight the cancerous cells.3 TECENTRIQ works by attaching to a specific protein in your body called Programmed Death Ligand-1, or "PD-L1".2 This protein makes the immune system in your body not work as well. By attaching to the protein, TECENTRIQ helps your immune system to fight your cancer and may reactivate the anti-tumour immune response.3
"The burden of lung cancer is significant and treatment innovation at any stage is important to provide more options," says Shem Singh, Executive Director Lung Cancer Canada. "With this approval, Canadians living with NSCLC now have another option when it comes to managing the disease at an early stage and potentially improving quality of life."
The approval is based on data from the Phase III IMpower010 study comparing TECENTRIQ to best supportive care (BSC) after adjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with completely resected early stage non-small cell lung cancer. In this study, a clinically meaningful improvement in disease-free survival (DFS) in the TECENTRIQ arm was shown compared to the BSC arm in patients with PD-L1 TC ≥ 50% stage II to IIIA.2
TECENTRIQ has nine currently approved indications in Canada, two of which are approved with conditions (NOC/c).2 For the adjuvant treatment of early-stage NSCLC, TECENTRIQ is available in three dosing options, providing the flexibility to choose administration every two, three or four weeks.2
"The inclusion of a new treatment for non-small cell lung cancer patients is welcome news," says Peter Glazier, Executive Vice President of the Lung Health Foundation. "For a majority of patients with lung cancer, advances in treatment have been minimal. As an organization focused on addressing the gaps in the prevention, diagnosis, and care of lung disease in Canada, we are very supportive of a new treatment option for Canadians living with lung cancer. "
Lung cancer can be broadly divided into two major types: non-small cell (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), with about 88 per cent of lung cancer cases in Canada (excluding Quebec) being NSCLC.4 Lung cancer is also classified in stages, as stage I through IV, based on the extent of disease in the body at the time of diagnosis.4
"As a healthcare solutions company, we are excited to provide a new treatment option for Canadians living with non-small cell lung cancer," says Loredana Regep, Vice President, Medical and Regulatory Affairs, Hoffmann-La Roche Limited. "This recent approval gives physicians an additional option for the treatment of early lung cancer after more than a decade with limited treatment advances in this setting."
About the Health Canada Approval
The approval is based on results from an interim analysis of the IMpower010 study that compared TECENTRIQ to best supportive care (BSC) after adjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with completely resected early stage non-small cell lung cancer.2
IMpower010 is a Phase III, open label, multicentre, randomized study evaluating the efficacy and safety of TECENTRIQ for the adjuvant treatment of patients with stage IB (tumors ≥ 4 cm) – IIIA NSCLC (per the Union for International Cancer Control / American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system, 7th edition). People who had complete tumour resection and were eligible to receive cisplatin-based chemotherapy were enrolled. Subsequently, people whose disease had not progressed following completion of cisplatin-based chemotherapy (up to four cycles) were randomized. Patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive TECENTRIQ (Arm A) or best supportive care (BSC) (Arm B). The primary efficacy outcome measure was DFS as assessed by the investigator.2 DFS was defined as the time from the date of randomization to the date of occurrence of any of the following: first documented recurrence of disease, new primary NSCLC, or death due to any cause, whichever occurred first.2
In the analysis of patients (n = 229) with PD-L1 TC ≥ 50% stage II to IIIA (pre-specified key-secondary endpoint), a clinically meaningful improvement in DFS in the TECENTRIQ arm was shown compared to the BSC arm (hazard ratio [HR]=0.43, 95% CI 0.27-0.68).2
About TECENTRIQ
TECENTRIQ is a monoclonal antibody designed to bind with a protein called Programmed Death Ligand-1 (PD-L1), which may be expressed on tumour cells and tumour-infiltrating immune cells, blocking its interactions with both PD-1 and B7.1 receptors.2This protein makes the immune system in your body not work as well. By attaching to the PD-L1 protein, TECENTRIQ may help the immune system fight the cancer.2
TECENTRIQ is a type of cancer immunotherapy treatment.2 Immunotherapy treatments work by helping to strengthen or restore the immune system's ability to fight the cancerous cells.3
About Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death globally.5 In Canada, lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of death from cancer in both men and women.1 In 2021, it was estimated that 29,600 Canadians would be diagnosed with lung cancer.1
Lung cancer can be broadly divided into two major types: NSCLC and SCLC, with about 88 per cent of lung cancer cases in Canada (excluding Quebec) being NSCLC.4 In Canada, approximately 50 per cent of patients with NSCLC are diagnosed with stage I to III disease.4 Diagnosing lung cancer early, before it has spread, may improve chances of survival.1
About Roche
Roche is a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics focused on advancing science to improve people's lives. The combined strengths of pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, as well as growing capabilities in the area of data-driven medical insights, help Roche deliver truly personalized healthcare. Roche aims to improve patient access to medical innovations by working with stakeholders across the entire healthcare sector to provide the best care for each person.
Roche is the world's largest biotech company, with truly differentiated medicines in oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology and diseases of the central nervous system. Roche is also the world leader in in vitro diagnostics and tissue-based cancer diagnostics, and a frontrunner in diabetes management. In recent years, Roche has invested in genomic profiling and real-world data partnerships, has become an industry leading partner for medical insights, and has collaborated in artificial intelligence (AI) data mining to fuel healthcare insights.
Roche Canada was founded in 1931 and employs more than 1,800 people across the country through its Pharmaceuticals division in Mississauga, Ontario as well as its Diagnostics and Diabetes Care divisions in Laval, Quebec.
Roche continues to search for better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat diseases and make a sustainable contribution to society. Globally, Roche has been recognized as one of the most sustainable companies in the Pharmaceuticals Industry by the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for twelve consecutive years. Roche Canada is also actively involved in local communities through its charitable giving and partnerships with organizations and healthcare institutions that work together to improve the quality of life of Canadians.
5 World Health Organization: GLOBOCAN 2020 – Lung Cancer: Estimated cancer incidence, mortality, and prevalence worldwide. [Internet; cited September 2021] Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today/data/factsheets/cancers/15-Lung-fact-sheet.pdf *Per the Union for International Cancer Control/American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system, 7th edition.
SOURCE Roche Canada
Health Canada Authorizes TECENTRIQ® (atezolizumab) for Canadians with early non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
In Canada, lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer, with estimates that 29,600 Canadians received a diagnosis in 20211
Tecentriq® (atezolizumab) is the first and only cancer immunotherapy approved for NSCLC in the adjuvant setting
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Feb. 4, 2022 /CNW/ - Hoffmann-La Roche Limited (Roche Canada) is pleased to announce that on January 14, 2022, Health Canada has authorized TECENTRIQ® (atezolizumab) as monotherapy for adjuvant treatment following complete resection and no progression after platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy for adult patients with stage II to IIIA* non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumours have PD-L1 expression on ≥ 50% of tumour cells (TCs).2
TECENTRIQ is a type of cancer immunotherapy treatment.2 Immunotherapy may work by helping the immune system fight the cancerous cells.3 TECENTRIQ works by attaching to a specific protein in your body called Programmed Death Ligand-1, or "PD-L1".2 This protein makes the immune system in your body not work as well. By attaching to the protein, TECENTRIQ helps your immune system to fight your cancer and may reactivate the anti-tumour immune response.3
"The burden of lung cancer is significant and treatment innovation at any stage is important to provide more options," says Shem Singh, Executive Director Lung Cancer Canada. "With this approval, Canadians living with NSCLC now have another option when it comes to managing the disease at an early stage and potentially improving quality of life."
The approval is based on data from the Phase III IMpower010 study comparing TECENTRIQ to best supportive care (BSC) after adjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with completely resected early stage non-small cell lung cancer. In this study, a clinically meaningful improvement in disease-free survival (DFS) in the TECENTRIQ arm was shown compared to the BSC arm in patients with PD-L1 TC ≥ 50% stage II to IIIA.2
TECENTRIQ has nine currently approved indications in Canada, two of which are approved with conditions (NOC/c).2 For the adjuvant treatment of early-stage NSCLC, TECENTRIQ is available in three dosing options, providing the flexibility to choose administration every two, three or four weeks.2
"The inclusion of a new treatment for non-small cell lung cancer patients is welcome news," says Peter Glazier, Executive Vice President of the Lung Health Foundation. "For a majority of patients with lung cancer, advances in treatment have been minimal. As an organization focused on addressing the gaps in the prevention, diagnosis, and care of lung disease in Canada, we are very supportive of a new treatment option for Canadians living with lung cancer. "
Lung cancer can be broadly divided into two major types: non-small cell (NSCLC) and small cell lung cancer (SCLC), with about 88 per cent of lung cancer cases in Canada (excluding Quebec) being NSCLC.4 Lung cancer is also classified in stages, as stage I through IV, based on the extent of disease in the body at the time of diagnosis.4
"As a healthcare solutions company, we are excited to provide a new treatment option for Canadians living with non-small cell lung cancer," says Loredana Regep, Vice President, Medical and Regulatory Affairs, Hoffmann-La Roche Limited. "This recent approval gives physicians an additional option for the treatment of early lung cancer after more than a decade with limited treatment advances in this setting."
About the Health Canada Approval
The approval is based on results from an interim analysis of the IMpower010 study that compared TECENTRIQ to best supportive care (BSC) after adjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with completely resected early stage non-small cell lung cancer.2
IMpower010 is a Phase III, open label, multicentre, randomized study evaluating the efficacy and safety of TECENTRIQ for the adjuvant treatment of patients with stage IB (tumors ≥ 4 cm) – IIIA NSCLC (per the Union for International Cancer Control / American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system, 7th edition). People who had complete tumour resection and were eligible to receive cisplatin-based chemotherapy were enrolled. Subsequently, people whose disease had not progressed following completion of cisplatin-based chemotherapy (up to four cycles) were randomized. Patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive TECENTRIQ (Arm A) or best supportive care (BSC) (Arm B). The primary efficacy outcome measure was DFS as assessed by the investigator.2 DFS was defined as the time from the date of randomization to the date of occurrence of any of the following: first documented recurrence of disease, new primary NSCLC, or death due to any cause, whichever occurred first.2
In the analysis of patients (n = 229) with PD-L1 TC ≥ 50% stage II to IIIA (pre-specified key-secondary endpoint), a clinically meaningful improvement in DFS in the TECENTRIQ arm was shown compared to the BSC arm (hazard ratio [HR]=0.43, 95% CI 0.27-0.68).2
About TECENTRIQ
TECENTRIQ is a monoclonal antibody designed to bind with a protein called Programmed Death Ligand-1 (PD-L1), which may be expressed on tumour cells and tumour-infiltrating immune cells, blocking its interactions with both PD-1 and B7.1 receptors.2This protein makes the immune system in your body not work as well. By attaching to the PD-L1 protein, TECENTRIQ may help the immune system fight the cancer.2
TECENTRIQ is a type of cancer immunotherapy treatment.2 Immunotherapy treatments work by helping to strengthen or restore the immune system's ability to fight the cancerous cells.3
About Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death globally.5 In Canada, lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of death from cancer in both men and women.1 In 2021, it was estimated that 29,600 Canadians would be diagnosed with lung cancer.1
Lung cancer can be broadly divided into two major types: NSCLC and SCLC, with about 88 per cent of lung cancer cases in Canada (excluding Quebec) being NSCLC.4 In Canada, approximately 50 per cent of patients with NSCLC are diagnosed with stage I to III disease.4 Diagnosing lung cancer early, before it has spread, may improve chances of survival.1
About Roche
Roche is a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics focused on advancing science to improve people's lives. The combined strengths of pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, as well as growing capabilities in the area of data-driven medical insights, help Roche deliver truly personalized healthcare. Roche aims to improve patient access to medical innovations by working with stakeholders across the entire healthcare sector to provide the best care for each person.
Roche is the world's largest biotech company, with truly differentiated medicines in oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology and diseases of the central nervous system. Roche is also the world leader in in vitro diagnostics and tissue-based cancer diagnostics, and a frontrunner in diabetes management. In recent years, Roche has invested in genomic profiling and real-world data partnerships, has become an industry leading partner for medical insights, and has collaborated in artificial intelligence (AI) data mining to fuel healthcare insights.
Roche Canada was founded in 1931 and employs more than 1,800 people across the country through its Pharmaceuticals division in Mississauga, Ontario as well as its Diagnostics and Diabetes Care divisions in Laval, Quebec.
Roche continues to search for better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat diseases and make a sustainable contribution to society. Globally, Roche has been recognized as one of the most sustainable companies in the Pharmaceuticals Industry by the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for twelve consecutive years. Roche Canada is also actively involved in local communities through its charitable giving and partnerships with organizations and healthcare institutions that work together to improve the quality of life of Canadians.
5 World Health Organization: GLOBOCAN 2020 – Lung Cancer: Estimated cancer incidence, mortality, and prevalence worldwide. [Internet; cited September 2021] Available from: https://gco.iarc.fr/today/data/factsheets/cancers/15-Lung-fact-sheet.pdf *Per the Union for International Cancer Control/American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system, 7th edition.
SOURCE Roche Canada
Fentanyl Deaths More Than Doubled in 30 States in Just Two YearsFentanyl Deaths Among Teens Tripled, Deaths Among Black Teens Increased 5x New Report: https://familiesagainstfentanyl.org/states/Akron, Ohio – In just two years, fentanyl poisoning deaths have doubled in the United States, and in 30 states, deaths have more than doubled according to a new analysis from Families Against Fentanyl. In six states, fentanyl fatalities increased nearly fivefold (Alaska, Colorado, Louisiana, Mississippi, California and Texas). See the report, “Fentanyl: The State We’re In” and tables at end of release below.
Families Against Fentanyl also found that among teens, fentanyl poisoning deaths are rising even faster. Teen deaths tripled in the last two years, and among black teens, deaths are five times higher than they were two years ago. Families Against Fentanyl analyzed data from the Center for Disease Control to find where and among which groups fentanyl poisoning deaths are rising the fastest. Since 2015, fentanyl fatalities across the United States increased by 547%. In Indiana, the District of Columbia, Minnesota, Washington and Colorado - fentanyl fatalities increased by over 1,000%. In Louisiana, Arizona and California - they increased by more than 2,000%.“The fentanyl crisis is getting worse, not better. Fake pills with deadly amounts of fentanyl are popping up everywhere. It’s in fake Xanax and Percocets, it’s being laced in cocaine and ecstasy. A single pill can kill,” said Families Against Fentanyl founder James Rauh, who lost his son to fentanyl poisoning.“Fentanyl poisoning is tearing families apart and killing our young people at an alarming rate. This stuff is so deadly it’s been used as a chemical weapon. Even babies and young children have been fatally poisoned by accident. It does not belong on our streets. It’s time for our leaders in Washington to do more.” “It is time to attack fentanyl overdoses with the same vigor and approaches as we do the coronavirus. It is heartbreaking to treat babies who overdosed or people who had no idea their pills or powder was contaminated with a deadly poison,” said Dr. Roneet Lev,emergency physician and former Chief Medical Officer of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. “Treating fentanyl overdoses is an attempt to bring someone back from the dead. As an emergency physician I do my best, but sadly we are not always successful. Fentanyl suppliers are preying on the vulnerable in our society.” Families Against Fentanyl is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of the illicit fentanyl crisis and advocating for federal action. The organization was founded by James Rauh of Akron, Ohio after his son was killed by fentanyl poisoning in 2015. Today’s analysis comes on the heels of another recent report from Families Against Fentanyl that found that fentanyl poisoning is now the #1 cause of death among Americans 18-45 and was responsible for more deaths than suicide, car accidents or gun violence last year. The new report also follows a new report published in JAMA Pediatrics that found that unintentional drug “overdose” deaths among Americans aged 10-24 years old have resulted in the loss of 1.25 million years of life from 2015 through 2019.“Mass incarceration of drug users and low-level dealers is not the answer and won’t stop the poisoning. We need to go to the source and stop the illegal manufacturers of this lethal chemical. Almost all illicit fentanyl is manufactured in other countries. By designating fentanyl a Weapon of Mass Destruction, the U.S. can do more to root out the illegal manufacturers and stop this poison before it ever reaches our streets. If 200,000 deaths isn’t mass destruction, I don’t know what is,” added Rauh.
Bipartisan leaders including former Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge and former CIA Director John Brennan have joined with Families Against Fentanyl towarn of the national security threat posed by illicit fentanyl and urged President Biden to designate illicit fentanyl and its analogues as weapons of mass destruction. More than 25,000 Americans have joined the call by signing FAF's petition. See tables below.
Technical note: This analysis was calculated using the most recent reliable data per CDC recommendations and compares fatalities for the 12 month period ending in May 2021 to the 12 month period ending in May 2019.Highest Fentanyl Deaths Per Capita In Last YearPer Capita RankStateDeath RateTotal Deaths*Total Deaths Rank1West Virginia64.41,150212District of Columbia49.7354333Maryland402,42094Delaware38.1376325Ohio374,29936Kentucky36.11,616157Tennessee35.72,45878Connecticut331,174209Maine30.64133010Rhode Island29.23093611Pennsylvania28.93,690512Massachusetts28.61,9751213Vermont26.81674314Indiana26.11,7641315New Jersey25.62,2761016South Carolina25.11,3091917North Carolina242,543618Florida23.75,161119Arizona221,6361420New Hampshire21.92993721Missouri21.71,3341822Michigan20.52,0471123New York20.23,912424Louisiana20.19362425New Mexico19.84162926Wisconsin201,1482227Illinois19.42,442828Virginia15.81,3571729Alaska13.3974430California135,123231Mississippi12.73783132Minnesota12.57092633Colorado12.27092734Alabama11.35562835Washington10.78252536Nevada10.73363537Georgia10.41,1122338Oregon8.33513439Kansas8.22383840Arkansas7.92383941North Dakota6.8524742Iowa5.81844143Utah5.21704244Texas4.91,4321645Idaho4.8884546Oklahoma4.71884047Wyoming4.6275048Montana4.2454849Nebraska3.6694650South Dakota3275151Hawaii2.33349 Technical note: This analysis was calculated using the most recent 12 months of reliable provisional data per CDC recommendations and which at time of analysis is the 12 month period ending in May 2021.
The Canadian Vaping Association questions why Nova Scotia has yet to produce any data showing a decline in youth vaping since its flavour ban
BEAMSVILLE, Ontario, Feb. 04, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vape product flavour restrictions have been positioned by youth advocacy groups and some health organizations as the best way to prevent youth vaping. As a result, several provinces have implemented various versions of a flavour ban, with the Northwest Territories and the federal government now considering following suit.
The Canadian Vaping Association (CVA) has repeatedly cautioned governments that flavour bans have proven unintended consequences, such as increased smoking, strengthened black-markets and small business closures. Tobacco control and addictions experts have echoed this sentiment, through calls for a more balanced regulatory approach that appropriately balances the lives of adult smokers with youth protection.
“We often use the term unintended consequences to describe the negative effects of flavour bans, but after many years of advocacy and replicated research, these consequences are known. It would be more apt to call the consequences what they really are – collateral damage,” said Darryl Tempest, Government Relations Counsel to the CVA Board.
“The conversation around these bans has been so focused on if they are justified, that no one seems to be asking if they even work. Governments continue to cite Nova Scotia as a model for the [flavour] ban, but Nova Scotia has yet to produce any data on youth vaping rates following the ban,” said Tempest.
Nova Scotia’s 2021 financial statements display a dramatic increase in cigarette sales. “Tax revenue was $11.5 million or 5.9 per cent higher than the estimate primarily due to an increase of 5.6 per cent in the consumption of cigarettes.”
Further, an independent firm conducted an in-depth scan of the illicit market operating in Nova Scotia since the flavour ban was enacted over a year ago. The findings were clear, prohibition and ineffective enforcement have made the situation far worse while exposing youth and consumers to unregulated products. The report concluded that the flavour ban did not prevent access as intended and instead pushed vapers back to smoking, while removing the regulatory environment that served to protect youth.
“There is no justification for knowingly pushing vapers back to a product that kills half its users. Proponents of these bans have yet to produce any real world modelling to suggest that flavour bans reduce youth experimentation without harming adult smokers,” concluded Tempest.
Organon Canada Declares Paid Time Off for All Employees on International Women's Day; All Employees in Canada to Focus on Their Own Health in Recognition of Growing Women's Health Inequity
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a disproportionate impact on women, Organon and the Alberta Women's Health Foundation issue a call to action for other leaders to create opportunities to focus on women's health in Canada
KIRKLAND, QC, Feb. 2, 2022 /CNW/ - Organon Canada, a subsidiary of Organon (NYSE: OGN), a global women's health company, is designating International Women's Day (IWD) on March 8 as a day to recognize the growing health disparities women face that have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since its inception, IWD has focused on accelerating gender parity. Organon recognizes the need for a global effort to address her health and is starting with its own employees by providing paid time off this year for all employees to attend to their own health needs. In Canada, Organon Canada will offer that paid time off to 125 employees. The company invites organizations in Canada and across the globe to join in raising awareness of the inequity in women's health and to adopt initiatives that help women prioritize their health.
Women have worked hard to advance in the workplace, but the pandemic is unraveling these hard-fought gains. A recent study on women in the workplace in the United States has shown that women are now significantly more burned out than ever, even more than meni which can take a huge toll on their physical and mental health. According to the Canadian Women's Foundation, a recent poll showed that women in Canada were carrying a bigger burden of worry about the pandemic than men.ii
"Organon launched with a commitment to listen to the needs of women and as part of our research, we learned that women are finding it harder than ever to make the time to care for even their most basic health needs," said Kevin Ali, chief executive officer, Organon. "As a company investing in innovation to improve women's health, I felt a responsibility to help address this within our own global community of almost 9,500 employees. This year, the symbolic action we are taking is to encourage all our people to spend this day off to make a commitment to their own health or the health of the women in their lives, whether that's going to the doctor, taking stock of their own wellbeing or reflecting on how to make a change."
"Organon is strongly committed to women's health in Canada and from day one, also committed to the wellbeing of our employees. We proudly join this global initiative and I want to personally invite other Canadian business leaders to join us or to adopt internal initiative to help women prioritize their health. Our workforce – and our families and our communities – can truly benefit in the long term from this investment," said Michael Casia, President and Managing Director, Organon Canada.
We believe healthy women are the backbone of a thriving, stable and resilient society and when she is healthy, she prospers and so does her community and her society, for generations to come. In its budget 2021, the Department of Finance of Canada issued a recommendation to create a National Institute for Women's Health Research to improve outcomes as "Sex and gender-related disparities continue to persist in Canada's health system. Women are more likely to die of preventable illnesses and bear a higher burden of chronic illnesses."iii This is what Organon is hoping to change and asks others to join in the effort to improve women's health.
In May 2021, the Alberta Women's Health Foundation set out to study the impacts on the pandemic on women in Alberta and found that 63 per cent of women reported pandemic stress was affecting their physical health in a negative way—including poorer diet, weight gain, reduction in exercise, difficulty sleeping, worsening of a chronic health issue, or onset of new health concerns—as well as several negative impacts on mental health. And while in poorer health, they are also facing barriers to the care they need. Related to COVID-19, more women than men (by an average of 12 per cent) reported skipping a medical appointment or having their medical appointments postponed or cancelled by a medical provider. Similarly, many appointments specific to women's health, such as mammograms and Pap tests, were postponed due to the pandemic.iv
"There is still a lot to be done to help close the gaps in women's health, to remove barriers to care, and give women what they deserve—an equal chance to be healthy. As the research shows, the pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on women and highlighted additional limitations on women's ability to pursue their own health, such as increases in already-lopsided unpaid caregiving duties, increased rates of depression and anxiety in pregnant and postpartum women, and a plethora of economic impacts, "said Sharlene Rutherford, President and CEO, Alberta Women's Health Foundation. "We applaud this leadership and bold action taken by Organon to demonstrate a commitment to meeting the unmet health needs of women and are proud to stand with them to help bring this crucial conversation to the forefront."
We believe that by improving the understanding of women's health needs, we are one step closer to closing the inequity gap. Organon and the Alberta Women's Health Foundation urge all organizations to join in this mission and be part of the solution.
About Organon
Organon is a global healthcare company formed through a spin-off from Merck, (NYSE: MRK) known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, to focus on improving the health of women throughout their lives. Organon has a portfolio of more than 60 medicines and products across a range of therapeutic areas. Led by the women's health portfolio coupled with an expanding biosimilars business and stable franchise of established medicines, Organon's products produce strong cash flows that will support investments in innovation and future growth opportunities in women's health. In addition, Organon is pursuing opportunities to collaborate with biopharmaceutical innovators looking to commercialize their products by leveraging its scale and presence in fast growing international markets.
Organon has a global footprint with significant scale and geographic reach, world-class commercial capabilities, and approximately 9,500 employees with headquarters located in Jersey City, New Jersey.
The Alberta Women's Health Foundation(AWHF) aims to foster equity in women's health, close gaps that exist in research today, and connect pathways from lab to life; all of which advance clinical care at the Lois Hole Hospital for Women and other women's health centres across Alberta and beyond. An initiative of the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation, the AWHF supports over 160 researchers at the Women and Children's Health Research Institute (WCHRI), whose research projects focus specifically on women's health.
Meet 7 Inspirational Women Who Changed Their Stories and Changed Their Worlds
Los Angeles, CA, Feb. 2, 2022 — Can something as simple as a story change the lives of others? Do you ever wonder if your life — your story — matters?
“Of course, it does,” says international speaker and sought-after story expert, Linda Olson. “Everyone has a story, and your story can bring transformation and impact into the word today.”
In Olson’s latest book, Story Matters! Empowering Your Hope When Going Through Tough Times, sheprovides real-life examples of seven ordinary women who faced major challenges. These women embraced their stories and learned to rise above nearly insurmountable obstacles. They did it through strength, courage and their faith in God, and they are sharing their stories to light a path forward for others facing difficult circumstances.
In this book, readers will learn:
- How a single woman rose above childhood trauma to conquer fear and loneliness.
- How a young mother moved through grief and loss when her young child was diagnosed with a terminal illness.
- How a caring sister became embroiled in a devastating lawsuit and discovered that forgiveness is a choice.
- How a middle-aged woman, faced with a choice to live or die, once again found joy.
- How a career woman who achieved the many pleasures of the world discovered her real fulfillment was through commitment.
- How a college student fulfilled her dream, only to find out her real dream lay deep within her.
- How a teenager, devastated by the death of her brother, became a professional storyteller.
“All of these women wanted to give in and give up because they felt themselves giving out,” Olson said. “But something kept them going!”
And now they’re using the power of their stories to make a difference.
Linda Olson is the go-to story expert who helps authors, speakers and entrepreneurs impact millions with their stories. She is a TEDx Speaker, multiple bestselling author and founder of Wealth Through Stories.Her mission is to impact a million people a year with multiple authors in her series, Story Matters! Linda and her husband, Rick, reside in sunny California. They enjoy their two married daughters, sons-in-law and five adorable grandchildren who are the best part of their story.
TALKING POINTS
Carew Papritz is an educational thought-leader, literacy advocate and award-winning author of the inspirational book, 
Since 2015, fentanyl fatalities across the United States increased by 547%. In Indiana, the District of Columbia, Minnesota, Washington and Colorado - fentanyl fatalities increased by over 1,000%. In Louisiana, Arizona and California - they increased by more than 2,000%.“The fentanyl crisis is getting worse, not better. Fake pills with deadly amounts of fentanyl are popping up everywhere. It’s in fake Xanax and Percocets, it’s being laced in cocaine and ecstasy. A single pill can kill,” said Families Against Fentanyl founder James Rauh, who lost his son to fentanyl poisoning.“Fentanyl poisoning is tearing families apart and killing our young people at an alarming rate. This stuff is so deadly it’s been used as a chemical weapon. Even babies and young children have been fatally poisoned by accident. It does not belong on our streets. It’s time for our leaders in Washington to do more.” “It is time to attack fentanyl overdoses with the same vigor and approaches as we do the coronavirus. It is heartbreaking to treat babies who overdosed or people who had no idea their pills or powder was contaminated with a deadly poison,” said Dr. Roneet Lev, emergency physician and former Chief Medical Officer of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. “Treating fentanyl overdoses is an attempt to bring someone back from the dead. As an emergency physician I do my best, but sadly we are not always successful. Fentanyl suppliers are preying on the vulnerable in our society.” Families Against Fentanyl is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness of the illicit fentanyl crisis and advocating for federal action. The organization was founded by James Rauh of Akron, Ohio after his son was killed by fentanyl poisoning in 2015. Today’s analysis comes on the heels of another recent report from Families Against Fentanyl that found that fentanyl poisoning is now the 
