Muscular Dystrophy Canada Receives Global Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Patient Group Award

 

-  STRIVE Awards Program Recognizes Excellence and Innovation in the Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Community

TORONTO, Sept. 7, 2018 /CNW/ - Muscular Dystrophy Canada is pleased to announce that it will receive one of the sought-after Strategies to Realize Innovation, Vision and Empowerment (STRIVE) Awards, created by PTC Therapeutics, Inc. to aid nonprofit organizations committed to serving the Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) community. Today's announcement coincides with World Duchenne Awareness Day 2018, a global effort to raise worldwide awareness of Duchenne.

"We are thrilled to have won this STRIVE Award, which will help us make a real difference to the lives of people affected by Duchenne," said Barbara Stead-Coyle, CEO of Muscular Dystrophy Canada. "The grant will help us to run Personal Empowerment Programs which help people with Duchenne to live more independently, be more socially active and involved in the community, and better informed about managing their condition."

The STRIVE Awards recognize the vital role patient advocacy groups play in improving the lives of individuals affected by DMD, and grants are awarded to facilitate unique, inventive ideas or programs that support patients and families within the Duchenne community.

Award entries were received from 45 organizations from across the world. An independent panel of external experts, knowledgeable in rare diseases, patient advocacy and funding initiatives, judged the entries for innovation, vision, and empowerment. Muscular Dystrophy Canada was one of 8 organizations to receive the Award, with judges commending the "innovative and collaborative" nature of the winning applications.

About Muscular Dystrophy Canada
Muscular Dystrophy Canada's mission is to enhance the lives of those affected with neuromuscular disorders by continually working to provide ongoing support and resources while relentlessly searching for a cure through well-funded research. To learn more about Muscular Dystrophy Canada, please visit www.muscle.ca or call our toll-free number at 1-866-MUSCLE-8 (1-866-687-2538). 

SOURCE Muscular Dystrophy Canada

Practice mindfulness at work via these eight tips:

1. Eliminate distractions.

If you work remotely, then you know that you can enjoy boosted productivity since you don’t have to deal with noisy coworkers, meetings, and other time vampires. That said, it’s really easy to become distracted when you work from home, especially if you’re not vigilant about your time. If you can’t trust yourself to stay off of social media, especially when you have a project due at the end of the day, it’s vital to learn how to keep distractions at bay.

2. Just breathe.

Big deep breaths and chanting “Om” would seem like the quickest route to mindfulness—and rightly so. Getting in touch with your breathing (some people tend to be shallow breathers) can help you improve your concentration, remove the mental chatter going on in your brain, lower your blood pressure, and lead to more peace. So if you don’t have time to whip out a yoga mat, standing at your desk and practicing better breathing can have positive effects on both the mind and body.

3. Focus on listening.

It’s hard to be in the present if you’re always thinking about what has to be done. The next time you’re speaking with your boss or a colleague, stop thinking about everything else—and focus on the person in front of you. Quieting your mind can make all the difference between having a meaningful conversation or not.

4. Feed your body.

Sure, you want to achieve mindfulness, but you can’t attain that without caring of your body, too. That means eating healthy during the day—even your snacks should be healthy, too. Eating well can improve your concentration, give you more energy, and carve the way for creating a mindful path.

5. Take breaks.

Those who practice mindfulness know that allowing the mind and body to take breaks is essential. Unfortunately, this is something that remote workers can sometimes have a problem doing, since studies show that they tend to sit longer (and work harder) than in-office workers. So take the time to exercise—or at the very least, get up every 60 minutes or so to stretch your legs.

6. Stop multitasking.

It’s hard to be mindful when your mind is racing all over the place. That’s why you should streamline your efforts to only one task at a time. After all, if you’re working on just one project at a time, you’re bound to be more focused and present at your work, rather than trying to accomplish multiple to-do’s at the same time. Take the time to do one task (and one task well), and you’re guaranteed to be calmer and more in the moment.

7. Be aware of the stressors.

Nothing can rob you of your inner calm quicker than stress. Whether it’s an overwhelming workload, a boss who tends to raise his voice, or a colleague who cuts you off during meetings, you might find that you’re more stressed (and not mindful) when you’re at work. If you’re under a lot of pressure, figure out what’s wrong, so that way you can make it right. Restoring the peace within you will keep you happily at peace in the workplace.

8. Adopt an attitude of gratitude.

People who are mindful often try to be humble and grateful as they go about their day. They view their boss assigning them a new task as a sign that they value them and know they’re competent (as opposed to seeing it as simply more work to do). They are thankful for their work flexibility and the ability to attend to professional and personal errands with ease. Having that ability to be grateful directly impacts their ability to be mindful—and happy—in their lives.

 

LimaCorporate Announces Milestone-based Acquisition of TechMah Medical LLC to Expand Digital Footprint in Orthopaedics

 

SAN DANIELE DEL FRIULI, Italy, Sept. 6, 2018 /CNW/ - LimaCorporate, a pioneer and leader in 3D printing of Orthopaedic implants, announces the milestone-based acquisition of TechMah Medical LLC ("TechMah Medical"), a medical device software company located in Knoxville, Tennessee, to complement its hardware portfolio with digital applications.

(Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/637371/Lima_Corporate_Logo.jpg )

TechMah Medical was founded in 2014 and focuses on digital technologies dedicated to orthopaedic surgery that impacts the quality of care and fits into today's cost constraints.  Dr. Mohamed Mahfouz, Professor of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Tennessee, is the founder of TechMah Medical.  Dr. Mahfouz has over 20 years' experience within Orthopaedics and holds over 300 publications on implant design, imaging, kinematics, sensors, anthropology and forensics. Dr. Mahfouz will continue to be involved with TechMah Medical and will become a long-term partner to LimaCorporate.

The team at TechMah Medical consists of world-class researchers and engineers in bio-wireless electronics, biomechanics, imaging, as well as software and will focus on the release of software and smart instruments which will be used in combination with LimaCorporate implants.

This investment in software know-how, together with the internal 3D printing expertise, brings LimaCorporate to the forefront of digital transformation of the Orthopaedics industry through highly-innovative digital solutions that will change the approach to surgery and standard instrumentation.

Under the terms of the agreement, LimaCorporate will provide funding to TechMah Medical and complete the acquisition as key product development goals are achieved, becoming the sole shareholder of TechMah Medical over time, while Dr. Mahfouz and his team will remain involved with the business.  Financial terms have not been disclosed.

"LimaCorporate is the most innovative and agile company in Orthopaedics today and the ideal partner for us to develop our technology and advance the digitization of the industry," said Dr. Mahfouz from TechMah Medical.

Luigi Ferrari, CEO of LimaCorporate, commented, "We are excited about this transaction and the partnership with Dr. Mahfouz. Combined with our proven implant technology and 3D printing capabilities, this acquisition will allow LimaCorporate to develop a strong foothold in all digital applications surrounding Total Joint Replacement by offering surgeons a new intra-operative experience and by providing their patients flexible personalized care."

About LimaCorporate

LimaCorporate is a global medical device company providing reconstructive Orthopaedic solutions to surgeons who face the challenges of improving the quality of life of their patients. Based in Italy, LimaCorporate is committed to the development of innovative products and procedures to enable surgeons to select ideal solution for every individual patient. LimaCorporate's product range includes large joint revision and primary implants and complete extremities solutions including fixation.

About TechMah Medical

TechMah Medical LLC is a technology company focused on delivering orthopedic solutions. We build innovative applications designed to improve patient and clinician experience throughout the joint replacement process. Based in Knoxville, Tennessee, our team of scientists and engineers are driven to improve quality and efficiency through customization.

For additional information on the Company, please visit: limacorporate.com

SOURCE Limacorporate S.p.A.

September is National Self-Care Awareness Month

 

IFBB Pro Bikini Athlete Dianna Forsberg Shares Tips to Rejuvenate the Body, Mind and Soul

 

DALLAS (Sept. 5, 2018) - September is Self-Care Awareness month, a time to remind us all that nurturing ourselves is essential to overall  happiness and well-being. Dianna Forsberg, IFBB Pro Bikini Athlete and health and fitness enthusiast, knows all too well the importance of carving out time for self to refuel the body, mind and soul. Amidst a recent divorce and corporate layoff, the 43-year old decided to focus on self-care by coming out of a four-year competitive fitness hiatus to begin training for the “Masters National Championship” fitness competition recently held in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania.  Her keen focus and commitment to transformation paid off, earning her a first-place win in the “Bikini over 40” category and reaching her long-term goal of receiving an IFFB Pro Card.

“Regardless of what you may be facing, it is imperative to unapologetically focus on creating your best self by concentrating on your strengths, goals and the many things that are going right in your life,” said Forsberg. “ A good self-care routine begins with making the decision to be better and then setting and sticking to measurable goals that will keep you accountable as well as give you something to look forward to along your journey.”

 

Forsberg has overcome many obstacles and offers the following self-care tips to get fit and healthy, while rejuvenating the body, mind and soul.

 

  1. Get Moving - High intensity physical activity is a great way to get the blood flowing and increase your mood. Don’t think exercise, think fun activities. So, from Zumba and Cycling to Martial Arts and Rowing, choose an activity that can give you a good workout, while also having some fun.

 

  1. Get in the Kitchen - What you feed your body will determine how you feel, so get rid of all junk and processed foods and instead, feed your body foods that grow from the earth. Think fruits, vegetables and seeds. You should also be eating at least three meals a day, having two small snacks and remaining hydrated with plenty of water. Be good to your body and it will be good to you.

 

  1. Get Your Mind Right - Self-care starts from within, so it is important to make time to be alone with the many thoughts that are running through your head. A great way to do this is enrolling in a yoga, tai chi or Pilates class. If going to a new class scares you, invest in some mind soothing apps, DVDs, or subscribe to a fitness YouTube channel. It is imperative that you connect the mind and body on a regular basis.

 

  1. Get to the Spa - From facials and massages to mani/pedis and saunas. A monthly trip to a spa is a great way to get away from the stresses of life. Nowadays, many spas have day passes and affordable memberships, so instead of getting that daily cup of coffee, use those funds for a monthly spa escape. Treat yourself because you deserve it.

 

  1. Get Your Friends Together - There is nothing better than having a group of you closest friends together to reminisce, laugh, cry, talk, toast AND to work out together! Swapping out a cocktail for a glass of wine is ok, and why not meet at a local trail for a run or go biking around a lake. It is a great way to catch up, while getting a good work out in.

 

  1. Get to the Book Store - There is a great peace that comes from walking through a book store and library. Visit the nearest one and find some self-help books that can help you deal with issues that may be personal to you. There are so many resources and just the act of being quiet, reading, reflecting, and self-evaluation does wonders.

 

  1. Get Some Rest - So many of us take getting enough sleep for granted, however it is so important to get some much-needed rest. Sometimes, simply taking a nap in the middle of the day can recharge you, taking a day off from work, and going to bed early enough so that you wake up rested and rejuvenated.  There are so many soothing night time routines like listening to soothing music and sipping on calming tea that can help you set the mood for some getting the sleep that your body needs.

 

An IFBB Pro Bikini Athlete, international fitness model, fitness spokesperson, entrepreneur, and mother of a two-year old toddler, Forsberg wears many hats. Throughout it all she maintains her commitment  to empowering others to reach their full fitness potential through health and fitness tips. Thus, she will be the featured health and wellness speaker at the “Ambitious Women Conference” taking place  Oct. 12 – 14, 2018 in Dallas, Texas.  To learn more about the conference, please visit www.ambitiouswomentconference.com. To learn more about Dianna Forsberg and her  health and fitness tips, please visit www.diannaforsberg.com.

 

About Dianna Forsberg

Dianna Forsberg is an IFBB Pro Bikini Athlete, international fitness model, fitness spokesperson and health and wellness enthusiast. Known for competing against the best and still holding her own, this beauty has the body and personal story that serves as inspiration for professional athletes and the everyday woman alike.

Dianna’s physical transformation started following several health issues that motivated her to make better health and fitness choices. After placing 5th in her first fitness competition, she became committed to the sport and today has over ten fitness competition awards and recognitions including her most recent title of IFBB Pro Bikini Athlete.

She is committed to empowering others with health and fitness tools and resources, thus trains clients of all ages  focusing on their health and fitness goals by meeting with them for services such as weekly consultations, work outs, measurements, nutrition, grocery shopping, meal prepping, and accountability. To learn more about Dianna Forsberg and to stay up to date on events  please follow her on Facebook and Instagram @DiannaForsberg.

 

Finalists announced in national competition to identify healthy aging solutions

 

TORONTO, Sept. 6, 2018 /CNW/ - It started as a challenge to Canadians to come up with great new ideas to support healthy aging. The AGE-WELL National Impact Challenge triggered a flood of submissions. After a round of public voting, AGE-WELL is pleased to announce the finalists.

Eight finalists will compete for over $100,000 in cash and in-kind prizes at a live pitch event in Vancouver, British Columbia, where they will showcase how their solution could positively impact older Canadians or their caregivers.

The finalists are:

  • Gluu Inbox: The First Inbox Designed Just for Older Adults: Email is a critical form of communication but poses one of the greatest online security risks older adults face. Gluu Inbox makes it easier to use email securely, avoid scams, manage attachments, and stay connected. (Zone 1: British Columbia and Alberta)
  • Mysteries for Seniors: "Mysteries for Seniors" will be an interactive, relaxing, and non-threatening virtual environment which will allow seniors to exercise their memory and practice cognitive tasks while having fun and socializing with their peers. (Zone 2: Manitoba and Saskatchewan)
  • Adaptive Clothing Redefined: It's all in the design. Monarch has developed an innovative, beautiful line of clothing specifically for people who require assistance dressing. The clothing eases the dressing process, protects the skin, is comfortable and looks great. (Zone 3: Ontario and Quebec)
  • Schedule Management System: The Schedule Management System is a facility-wide system that schedules and shares tasks with the facility staff. The system will allow seniors to create a profile, attached to their unit number, that logs and reschedules regular activities. (Zone 4: Eastern Canada)
  • MouvMat: MouvMat is an interactive digital gaming surface that is designed for older adults to encourage physical activity in a social and engaging way. Our goal is to improve the physical and cognitive health of older adults. (Young Innovator)
  • Marlena Books App: The Marlena Books app brings reading to life for individuals with later-stage dementia. Our digital reading platform incorporates accessibility features such as graduated reading levels, personalization, audio support and automatic page turning. (Stakeholder Favourite)
  • Nightingale.ai: The Smart Clinical Assessment Assistant: Nightingale.ai is an intelligent and portable assistant for functional and cognitive assessments. This smart device uses cutting-edge artificial intelligence to analyze older adults' physical function and cognition at the bedside to optimize clinical decision support. (Most Mentioned on Social Media)
  • ARCtag: ARCtag is an automated, rapid communication tool to enhance safety during guided hikes and outdoor recreation tours for seniors. The device detects if someone falls, stops moving, gets separated, or signals for help. (AGE-WELL 2018 Summer Institute team)

"The depth and diversity of the ideas is impressive," says Dr. Alex Mihailidis, Scientific Director of AGE-WELL, Canada's Technology and Aging Network, which is hosting the competition. "A lot of creative thinking has gone into developing these proposed solutions."

The AGE-WELL National Impact Challenge aims to identify great new ideas for technology-based solutions that will improve the quality of life of older Canadians and/or their caregivers.

The challenge drew 60 video submissions from Canadians. Almost 15,000 votes were cast by members of the public during online voting between August 1 and August 17, 2018. The list of finalists includes the contestant who received the most votes in each of four geographic zones (a fifth zone did not receive entries).

In addition to the four contestants chosen from the zones, three wild card videos were selected to participate in the finale: Young Innovator (chosen by AGE-WELL's Education and Training Program Leads), Stakeholder Favourite (chosen by a member of AGE-WELL's Older Adult and Caregiver Advisory Committee) and Most Mentioned (video with the most social media activity and mentions), plus the winning team from the AGE-WELL 2018 Summer Institute.

The grand finale will be held on October 17, 2018 at the AGE-WELL Annual Conference in Vancouver. Each finalist will give a five-minute presentation to a panel of expert judges.

The cash prize associated with the competition is to be used solely for research and development of the submitted idea, its dissemination or commercialization. For more about the finalists, prize details, and competition terms and conditions, please visit the competition main page.

Generous sponsors of the AGE-WELL National Impact Challenge are: Bereskin & Parr, CARP, the Impact Centre, Revera, Sun Life Financial, and TELUS Ventures.

Register here to attend AGE-WELL's 4th Annual Conference on October 16-18, 2018 at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre.

About AGE-WELL:

AGE-WELL NCE Inc. (http://www.agewell-nce.ca/@AGEWELL_NCE) is Canada's Technology and Aging Network. AGE-WELL brings together researchers, older adults, caregivers, partner organizations and future leaders to accelerate the delivery of technology-based solutions that make a meaningful difference in the lives of Canadians. AGE-WELL researchers are producing technologies, services and policies/practices to improve quality of life for older adults and caregivers, and generate social and economic benefits for Canada. AGE-WELL was launched in 2015 through the federally-funded Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE) program.

SOURCE AGE-WELL Network of Centres of Excellence (NCE)

4 Reasons Being Creative Will Make You Happier As You Grow Older

 

We don’t all age like fine wine, but there’s plenty of proof that the creative juices can keep flowing well into the twilight years.

 

Oscar-nominated screenwriter Millard Kaufman wrote his first novel, Bowl of Cherries, at the age of 90. Benjamin Franklin was 78 when he invented the bifocal lens. Frank Lloyd Wright completed the design of the Guggenheim Museum in New York at 92. Frank McCourt won a Pulitzer Prize at 66 for his first novel, and Giuseppe Verdi wrote the acclaimed opera Falstaff at 79.

 

Clearly, creativity and aging aren’t always mutually exclusive. Psychology Today reports the aging brain is characterized by a broadening focus of attention, which is a hallmark of creativity. And being creative into the senior years, research shows, can make us happier. One research project, The Creativity and Aging Study, conducted by the National Endowment for the Arts and The George Washington University, determined senior citizens engaged in creative pursuits - such as writing, painting and music - enjoyed greater feelings of morale and better overall health.

 

Award-winning author and poet Piero Rivolta, 77, enjoyed successful careers in car manufacturing, commercial building and sailing before re-dedicating himself as a writer the last few years. Being creative as one gets older, he says, brings more enjoyment of life by putting us more in touch with our authentic selves as well as with the outside world.

 

And he wishes more people took that approach sooner.

 

“People need to adapt a creative, poetic way of living,” says Rivolta (www.pierorivolta.com), whose ninth and most recent book is Bridge Through The Stars: A Novel of Desire and Destiny. “That starts with what is inside of them and letting it out.

 

“Today, too many people don’t see too far away from their nose. Money has become too important. We need a poetic sense of life, following our intuition, nurturing our curiosity and engaging in the world around us. Let the mind wander and become absorbed in a vibrant, creative process, leading to discoveries that can influence your future or even humanity.”

 

Rivolta gives four reasons creativity can bring more happiness later in life:

 

  • It drives brain growth. Research shows creativity fires neurons that creates connections in the brain, essentially making the brain grow as it gets older. And, Rivolta says, a mentally active person with an open, curious mind tends to stay inspired and be happier. “It’s exhilarating to keep our minds moving and adding to them,” Rivolta says. “And older people already have a vast warehouse of knowledge to share creatively.”
  • It adds self-esteem. New creative outlets later in life can remove any identity crisis one is feeling in retirement. “You really need a sense of purpose as you get older with seemingly less to do,” Rivolta says. “Creatively doing things you always wanted to do gives you immense satisfaction and more happiness. It’s exciting; you’re finding new parts to yourself.”
  • It expands your social world. Studies have shown many aging people feel isolated. Creative pursuits such as art classes are a great way to connect socially. “It’s so important in older age to connect with others and not go it alone,” Rivolta says. “And whether you’re sharing ideas, the gift of your talents or just time together, it makes for a much happier existence.”
  • It reduces regrets. Some senior citizens harbor regrets, wondering what would have happened if they had tried something new. “Being creative is a way to somewhat make up for that, and feel the satisfaction of taking action like you always wanted to,” Rivolta says.

 

“Living a creative, poetic life,” Rivolta says, “makes you more fully experience the  beauty of living, especially in later years. I’ve always had that and didn’t want to stop. People used to tell me I worked too much, but in reality I felt like I never worked because I enjoyed each of my jobs so much. That’s a great part about doing things that combine creativity and adventure.”

 

 

About Piero Rivolta

Piero Rivolta (www.pierorivolta.com), an award-winning poet and author, grew up in Milan, Italy in a family of automakers. He has made a career of successful reinvention based on creativity and passion for enhanced living. The leader of a successful car manufacturing company, he left Italy and moved to Sarasota, Fla., in 1980 with his wife Rachele, a painter. Rivolta has also been a residential and commercial builder, high-seas sailor and yacht producer. He recently published Bridge Through the Stars, his first novel since the publication of Journey Beyond 2012 and his Sarasota trilogy: Sunset in Sarasota, Alex and the Color of the Wind and The Castaway. Rivolta is also the author of four poetry/prose collections: Just One Scent: The Rest Is God, Nothing Is Without Future, Going By Sea and One Life, Many Lives.

 

 

CordovaCann Announces Letter of Intent to Acquire Ontario-Based Licensed Producer Applicant

 

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 5, 2018 / CordovaCann Corp. (CSE: CDVA) (OTCQB: LVRLF) ("Cordova" or the "Company"), a cannabis-focused consumer products company, announced today that it has entered into a letter of intent (the "LOI") to acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of 2366607 Ontario Inc. d/b/a Alterna Medicinals Canada ("Alterna") for the total purchase price of $1,693,750 Canadian dollars and 1,204,167 shares in the common stock of Cordova, contingent upon Alterna obtaining receipt of a License to Cultivate under Health Canada's Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations (ACMPR) for Alterna's facility in Listowel, Ontario. Furthermore, Cordova has agreed to loan up to $1 million Canadian dollars to Alterna to fund the required capital expenditures to advance the application process for such License to Cultivate.

Alterna is an applicant to become a Licensed Producer under the ACMPR program and was provided a Confirmation of Readiness by Health Canada earlier this year for its 14,000 square foot leased-facility located in Listowel, Ontario. The facility has future expansion capabilities across its seven acre site.

"Expanding our cultivation capabilities into the Canadian market is an essential step in achieving our goal of capturing greater international market share," stated Mr. Taz Turner, Chairman and CEO of Cordova. "While providing access to the Canadian market is of significant importance to us, the acquisition of Alterna is also expected to provide us with the ability to distribute our branded, formulated products to international markets, furthering our mission to establish a global cannabis manufacturing and distribution platform."

The transaction as contemplated is subject to standard terms and conditions of transactions of this nature, including but not limited to the completion of satisfactory due diligence and the approval of Cordova's board of directors.

To be added to the Company's distribution list, please email cordova@kcsa.com with "Cordova" in the subject line.

About CordovaCann Corp.

CordovaCann Corp. is a Canadian-domiciled company focused on building a leading, diversified cannabis products business across multiple U.S. jurisdictions. CordovaCann primarily provides services and investment capital to the processing and production vertical markets of the cannabis industry.

Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based on currently available competitive, financial and economic data and management's views and assumptions regarding future events. Such forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. The Company cannot provide assurances that the matters described in this press release will be successfully completed or occur. Actual results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to: global economic and market conditions; the war on terrorism and the potential for war or other hostilities in other parts of the world; the availability of financing and lines of credit; successful integration of acquired or merged businesses; changes in interest rates; management's ability to forecast revenues and control expenses, especially on a quarterly basis; unexpected decline in revenues without a corresponding and timely slowdown in expense growth; the Company's ability to retain key management and employees; intense competition and the Company's ability to meet demand at competitive prices and to continue to introduce new products and new versions of existing products that keep pace with technological developments, satisfy increasingly sophisticated customer requirements and achieve market acceptance; relationships with significant suppliers and customers; as well as other risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those detailed from time to time in the Company's public filings on EDGAR and SEDAR. The Company undertakes no obligation to update information contained in this press release. For further information regarding risks and uncertainties associated with the Company's business, please refer to the risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company's EDGAR and SEDAR filings.

SFU addresses mental health on and off campus through additional support services for its students

 

Two-year pilot program to provide students with confidential 24-hour access to counsellors through their mobile device

VANCOUVER, Sept. 5, 2018 /CNW/ - Simon Fraser University (SFU) and Simon Fraser Student Society (SFSS) have launched a 24/7 multi-platform mental health and support service through Morneau Shepell called My Student Support Program (My SSP), for its students. This two-year pilot project, which began in August, will provide additional mental health resources for all SFU students, at no additional cost, to help address the growing demand for mental health services – a problem that is also impacting other young adults and post-secondary institutions across Canada.

SFU students now have immediate, confidential, 24-hour access – from anywhere in the world – to counsellors through a phone or mobile app. The app will allow students to talk or instant message counsellors for emotional support needs such as managing relationships and adjusting to living away from home, as well as crisis support. The program offers both immediate and booked counselling options; students can request to book an appointment with a counsellor who speaks a specific language or, for example, identifies as a specific gender, religion or as indigenous.

"My SSP will help provide mental health support and other resources to our students no matter where they are in the world," said Tim Rahilly, vice provost and associate vice-president, students and international, Simon Fraser University. "Students will have access to these resources should they need it even if they are living or studying abroad."

"Having access to a larger, more diverse network of professionals means that students' unique circumstances can be more timely and easily matched with someone who may have lived experience with their circumstances," said Samer Rihani, vice president of  student services, Simon Fraser Student Society. "By offering this service to our students, we know that we'll be making our first step forward in destigmatizing mental health services and letting students know it's okay to not be okay."

In addition to having a counsellor at their fingertips, the downloadable My SPP app can connect students to videos and articles to help support positive well-being such as achieving balance, sleep and mindfulness resources.

"Our collaboration with SFU started in February 2017 when we observed an increased need of mental health services for students compared to what was available on campus," said Jasdeep Gill, vice president, SFSS VP external relations, Simon Fraser Student Society. "It was absolutely vital to us to recognize students' need for resources and flexibility, and we're thrilled to have come to this solution with SFU through Morneau Shepell's 24-hour, immediate support services. The Board of Directors is pleased to have finalized this agreement with SFU to support this pilot program."

"This two-year pilot project will provide increased access to mental health services and support for students at SFU and will complement our existing services and initiatives," said Martin Mroz, health and counselling director, Simon Fraser University. "I'm especially excited the role that My SSP can play in helping staff and faculty support students. We have a lot of people at the university that want to help build a Healthy Campus Community and this will empower them to do that. My SPP will be situated amidst a strategy that addresses timely, accessible, supports for those in need; settings that promote well-being and a caring community; and health education as well as addressing mental health stigma."

SFU's funding contribution for this initiative is part of the University's Student Experience Initiative, a formal, three-year process led by the VP Academic Office to fund initiatives that have potential to positively impact the student experience. These mental health resources are provided in partnership with guard.me, a leading international student insurance provider, and Moreau Shepell, a leading global organization offering counselling that supplements the growing demand of mental health and wellness on campuses across North America.

"We have developed a great relationship with guard.me over the past few years to provide exceptional service for our institutional partners and we are pleased to extend our offering to the students at SFU," said Matthew McEvoy, senior director, student support, Morneau Shepell. "We continue to see investments in mental health support across the country, so we are thrilled that SFU is echoing this commitment for its students."

"With such a diverse student population, it was imperative that SFU provide support to the entire SFU student population, including graduate students, undergraduate students, diverse international perspectives,  LGTBQ+ students, indigenous students, student athletes, students with disabilities and more," said Keith Segal, president and chief executive officer, guard.me. "We are honoured to be able to reach more students every day and to be a part of their journey toward a successful educational experience."

About Simon Fraser University

As Canada's engaged university, SFU is defined by its dynamic integration of innovative education, cutting-edge research and far-reaching community engagement. SFU was founded more than 50 years ago with a mission to be a different kind of university—to bring an interdisciplinary approach to learning, embrace bold initiatives, and engage with communities near and far. Today, SFU is Canada's leading comprehensive research university and is ranked one of the top universities in the world. With campuses in British Columbia's three largest cities – Vancouver, Burnaby and Surrey – SFU has eight faculties, delivers almost 150 programs to over 35,000 students, and boasts more than 145,000 alumni in 130 countries around the world.

About Simon Fraser Student Society

The Simon Fraser Student Society exists to improve the health and well-being, social, academic, and financial conditions of our undergraduate students. We provide assistance for campus events, advocate for issues that are important to our members, provide study and social spaces, support clubs and student groups, oversee the undergraduate health and dental plan and more. The SFSS is governed by a student elected Board of Directors. The SFSS: for students, by students. The SFSS encourages you to make your time here at SFU a memorable experience.

About Morneau Shepell

Morneau Shepell is the only human resources consulting and technology company that takes an integrated approach to employee well-being, health, benefits and retirement needs. The Company is the largest administrator of retirement and benefits plans and the largest provider of integrated absence management solutions in Canada. LifeWorks by Morneau Shepell is a total well-being solution that combines employee assistance, wellness, recognition and incentive programs. As a leader in strategic HR consulting and innovative pension design, the Company also helps clients solve complex workforce problems and provides integrated productivity, health and retirement solutions. Established in 1966, Morneau Shepell serves approximately 24,000 clients, ranging from small businesses to some of the largest corporations and associations. With more than 4,500 employees in offices across North America, Morneau Shepell provides services to organizations around the globe. Morneau Shepell is a publicly-traded company on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: MSI). For more information, visit morneaushepell.com.

About guard.me
guard.me International Insurance is one of the world's largest insurance providers in international education and a leader in addressing the changing needs of organizations and students around the globe.

With almost 20 years' experience working with language schools, high schools, universities, colleges, industry associations and agents, guard.me takes pride in keeping international students safe when it matters most. That means creating insurance plans that can be used in every country and for every occasion. Whether students are leaving to go abroad or for international students studying in Canada and the USA, guard.me has a plan for every kind of educational opportunity.

SOURCE Morneau Shepell Inc.

Servier Canada announces the Expansion of its Oncology Portfolio through the acquisition by Servier group of Shire's oncology branch

 

LAVAL, QC, Sept. 5, 2018 /CNW Telbec/ - Servier Group announced August 31st, the closing of the global acquisition of Shire's oncology branch following final clearance by the regulatory authorities. As a result of this transaction, Servier Canada strengthened its oncology portfolio with two marketed products. ONCASPARTM (pegaspargase) is an asparagine specific enzyme indicated as a component of a multi-agent chemotherapeutic regimen for the treatment of patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and ONIVYDETM (irinotecan liposome) is a topoisomerase inhibitor indicated for metastatic adenocarcinoma of the pancreas, in combination with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and leucovorin (LV), in adult patients who have disease progression following gemcitabine-based therapy.

"We established our Oncology Business Unit in Canada two years ago, as a result of a global strategic orientation. In this short period of time, we have consolidated our canadian portfolio in both solid tumors and hemato-malignancies and this recent acquisition is a major step forward", underlined Frederic Fasano, Chief Executive Officer of Servier Canada Inc.

Servier Canada's current portfolio comprises products soon to be marketed. ZEVALIN® is the only single-course chemo-free treatment regimen approved by Health Canada for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory low-grade or follicular, CD20 positive, B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, including patients with rituximab-refractory follicular non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. FOLOTYN® and BELEODAQ® are currently under review by Health Canada as anti-neoplastic agents in relapsed or refractory peripheral T-cell lymphoma.

"Servier Canada's commitment is to bring innovative treatment options to Canadian patients suffering from different types of cancer. We are happy to welcome Shire's Oncology team today and join forces continuing pursuing our mission" said Amelie Faubert, Commercial Head, Oncology Business Unit.

Oncology is a key therapeutic area for Servier and its research and development focuses on apoptosis and immuno-oncology. The Group currently devotes 37% of its R&D investments to fighting cancer and addressing critical unmet patient needs. It also has a goal to reach 50% within the next two years. To date, Servier has nineteen strategic research alliances in oncology, including five with American partners, to accelerate patient's access to innovative therapies. This has led to thirteen innovative anti-cancer products in clinical development.

About Servier Canada
Servier Canada was established in 1978 and is celebrating its 40th anniversary of operation in Canada. Servier Canada employs over 250 people across Canada and is currently marketing medicines in oncology, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. For additional information please visit our website at www.servier.ca

About Servier Group
Servier is an international pharmaceutical company governed by a non-profit foundation, with its headquarters in France (Suresnes). With a strong international presence in 149 countries and a turnover of 4.152 billion euros in 2017, Servier employs 21,700 people worldwide. Entirely independent, the Group reinvests 25% of its turnover (excluding generic drugs) in research and development and uses all its profits for development. Corporate growth is driven by Servier's constant search for innovation in five areas of excellence: cardiovascular, immune-inflammatory and neuropsychiatric diseases, cancer and diabetes, as well as by its activities in high-quality generic drugs. Servier also offers eHealth solutions beyond drug development.

 

SOURCE Servier Canada Inc.

59% of Europeans and 68% of Americans are overweight

ReportLinker released a new report on eating habits, overweightness and obesity:

 

Meat, Fruits and Veggies, what are the numbers?

- In the UK, veganism has become a trend. More people are favoring plant-based, low fat, and low sugar diets, and the weekly household consumption of beef has been divided by two since the 70’s (215g in 1975 vs 102g in 2015)

- In the US, red meat consumption has decreased since its peak of 198 lbs per person per year in 1971, to 141 lbs in 2015.

Also, the country saw a rise of 16% in vegetables consumption in the past 46 years.

Butter consumption has dropped too, going from 18 lbs consumed per person and per year in 1931, to an average of 4 lbs since the 80’s.

- Globally, the soy products consumption has highly increased since 2000 and is expected to    grow sharply through 2026.

What’s the impact on everyone’s weight?

  • Almost 70% US adults are considered to be overweight, way up from 41% in 1974.
  • We witness the same trend in Europe with 39% of people being overweight  in 1976 to 59% thirty years later.