Air Canada Foundation Makes Substantial Donation for Sick Children

woman-with-stomach-pain

 Opération Enfant Soleil is pleased to announce today that it has received a donation of $150,000 from the Air Canada Foundation to carry out projects at major pediatric centres in the province. The donation will be used to purchase specialized equipment and fund major projects at the Montreal Children's Hospital, the CHU Sainte-Justine and the Centre mère-enfant Soleil of the CHU de Québec-Université Laval. Thanks to this gesture of solidarity, children can receive better care and have an optimal quality of life during their hospital stay.

"The health and well-being of children and youth are at the core of the Air Canada Foundation's mission. That is why we are pleased to contribute to certain projects that will allow sick children to receive the best possible care during their hospitalization at pediatric centres in Quebec," said Priscille Leblanc, Chair of the Air Canada Foundation.

Over the past 10 years, the Air Canada Foundation has donated more than $700,000 to foster the well-being of sick children. With the combined efforts of Opération Enfant Soleil and all its donors and partners, the funds provided by the Air Canada Foundation have been used, among other things, to help equip various care units at the Montreal Children's Hospital, as well as the Medical Imaging department, the Emergency department and operating rooms, through the purchase of cutting-edge equipment such as physiological monitors, ultrasound diagnostic systems, ultrasound equipment, an X-ray system, a heart-lung apparatus and a digital electromyograph.

"Thanks to valued partners such as the Air Canada Foundation, we can support hospitals and make a real difference in the lives of sick children and their families. Thank you for your generosity!" said Anne Hudon, Chief Executive Officer of Opération Enfant Soleil, who expressed her gratitude for this sizable donation on behalf of the families and the organization.

For over 10 years, Opération Enfant Soleil has had the privilege of receiving the support of the Air Canada Foundation through airline tickets for fundraising events, the donation of thousands of Aeroplan Miles to the Hospital Transportation Program and cash donations.

About the Air Canada Foundation

The Air Canada Foundation, a not-for-profit organization focused on the health and well-being of children and youth, was launched in 2012. It offers financial and in-kind support, through travel assistance, to Canadian registered charities. Core programs include the Hospital Transportation Program, which donates Aeroplan Miles to pediatric hospitals across Canada, enabling children to access medical care unavailable locally, and the Volunteer Involvement Program, which recognizes the involvement of Air Canada employees in their local communities by providing airline tickets to registered charities in support of their fundraising activities. The Foundation, in collaboration with the airline, also participates directly in fundraising activities such as the Every Bit Counts program, which encourages customers to donate loose change on board flights or through airport collection containers. The Foundation also offers continued support to major health-related causes that benefit Canadians and actively participates in international humanitarian relief activity as the need arises. For more information about the Air Canada Foundation, please visit www.aircanada.com/foundation or the 2015 Corporate Sustainability Report: Citizens of the World, online at www.aircanada.com/en/about/corp_sustainability.html.

About Opération Enfant Soleil

Opération Enfant Soleil raises funds to support the development of high-quality pediatrics for all sick children in Quebec. Donations raised have made it possible to carry out hundreds of projects each year in local organizations as well as major pediatric centres, which are equipped with cutting-edge technology and welcoming environments, and in regional hospitals, where children can be treated near their families.

MedReleaf continues to lead on scientific research: Landmark, peer-reviewed study shows medical cannabis dramatically improves lives of veterans with PTSD

marijuana-from-marijuana-farm

MedReleaf, Canada's premium licensed producer of medical cannabis, today announced the findings from a landmark study on the effectiveness of medical cannabis on military veterans diagnosed with PTSD. The study found treatment with medical cannabis improved aggregate patient reported outcomes by 50-60% with a 77% decrease in suicidal thoughts as well as a 50% reduction in the consumption of related medications.

The study, being presented today in Vancouver at the 7th Annual Military and Veteran Health Research Forum, was conducted by Dr. Paul Smith, MD, using several of MedReleaf's proprietary strains of medical cannabis including AviDekel, Luminarium and Midnight.

From baseline to follow up, the study revealed a number of key insights on patient outcomes including:

  • Aggregate score of both PTSD symptoms and social impacts improved by 59%
  • Drug and alcohol overuse was reduced by 82%
  • Marital and relationship harmony improved 65% and
  • Severity of pain experienced by patients decreased 48%

Improvements in outcomes were also associated with a 50% reduction in the consumption of PTSD-related medications, including opioids. 36% of patients on PTSD related medications at baseline discontinued all such medications, for an estimated annual savings of $2,300 to $3,800 per patient.

"The evidence is overwhelming that cannabis is dramatically improving the lives of veterans with PTSD," noted Neil Closner, CEO of MedReleaf. "We're encouraged by Dr. Smith's work; it provides valuable insight and data that will assist the broader healthcare community in their quest to help veterans better manage their healthcare needs."

"In my practice, I see the worst of the worst in terms of PTSD; when all other treatment options fail, these patients come to me," noted the study's author, Dr, Paul Smith, adding "70% of veterans are dropping out of traditional PTSD programs in favour of a medical cannabis course of treatment and as the evidence overwhelmingly shows, it is remarkably effective."

Patients in the study required 9.4 grams of medical cannabis a day to achieve these results leading Dr. Smith to note, "There is no one-size-fits-all approach to effective cannabis dosing but I believe that when veterans get VAC coverage for cannabis oils and capsules, we'll see more veterans turn to this treatment and I think that with these new, accurate dosing methods of delivery we'll see a reduction in the amount of cannabis required for a course of treatment."

Following the presentation of the abstract at Forum 2016, Dr. Smith will submit the results for peer review with the goal of publication in the Journal of Veteran, Military and Family Health.

About the study

The study is based on chart audits of 100 patients with confirmed diagnosis of PTSD and who initiated a treatment of medical cannabis after January, 2014. Self-reported Patient-Related Outcomes (PRO) were captured at baseline and at a follow up visit between 3 and 18 months after initiation of a treatment of medical cannabis. The data review was conducted at a single medical practice with extensive treatment of medical cannabis and which serves a large number of military veterans.

The full abstract, including details on study background, methodology, epidemiology and detailed results can be found at www.medreleaf.com/research-overview.

About MedReleaf

MedReleaf is the leading, research-and-development driven, medical cannabis producer in Canada and the only ISO 9001 certified cannabis producer in North America. They offer the finest range of premium cannabis products sourced from around the globe and cultivated in their Ontario facility under the strictest guidelines and care. MedReleaf focuses on quality, safety, uniformity, and reliability, and they do it all to improve the quality of life for their patients. MedReleaf is setting The Medical Grade Standard, because quality assurance is at the core of every product they produce. Through tireless clinical research in concert with the Canadian medical community, MedReleaf is consistently striving to unlock the immense potential of medical cannabis, and is dedicated to leading the way in the discovery of its medical and therapeutic benefits.

For more information on MedReleaf, its products and processes, please visit MedReleaf.com

SOURCE MedReleaf Corp.

The Wild North - Versatile Winter Wear - @the_wildnorth

The seasons are changing and with that we now need outerwear. Especially here in Toronto, Canada. Our seasons are so unpredictable we find ourselves needing a variety of coats. We also want to keep in style and up to date in fashion and also have versatile and functional winter coats that is a truly made-in-Canada Company.


A lot of time I find myself leaving the house in the morning, heading to the gym and then having to go to a meeting. I need outerwear that can fit all of my daily events and I have found it in The Wild North. I have a coat for every possible weather scenario now and I feel beautiful in the styles and comfortable in each and every coat.

A few facts about the company that I love:

  1. They Live in Harmony with the Environment - As a truly made-in-Canada company, they choose to source our material, such as wild fur, from Canadian northern communities because they strongly believe in protecting our habitat from industrial forest clear cutting. They also support local industry and advocate outdoor activities to encourage people living a fulfilling lifestyle that is in harmony with nature.
  2. They want you to live A Free-Spirited Winter Season - They believe in bringing one piece winter outerwear and accessory with timeless design and superior quality on your Christmas trip, skiing in Whistler and visiting Vancouver city along the way. I love that they create versatile and functional winter wear fashion lines that inspire you to fully experience the winter season and not have to hide indoors, including some of the most breathtaking views the snowy weather brings.
  3. Their winter fashion is unlike any other company out there. The focus on the European trend driven, these simple, yet sophisticated looks are made with finest material, quality fabric, and high-fill-power down insulation. Keeping you warm and comfortable for the weather. They create contemporary and luxurious pieces that bring fashion back in winter. You will be glad of the change of season when you have fun wearing with different outfits from going to concerts, fine dining, and a long walk along the Harbourfront.

Another reason I fell in love with this company is that their coats are also light resistant so that they won't fade, water resistant at grade 4, which means that water slightly sticks to the upper surface of the fabric.. On top of this they use their fabric can withstand significant contact with minimal colour transfer and there will be minimal colour change over time with perspiration. I have had many coats in the past fail to meet these standards and I was having to continually replace them because of these faults.

My three favorite coats that I want to share with you are:

Lila Classic Winter Jacket

img_3380 img_3382

I love the weight of this coat. I find it easy to wear when I am getting in and out of my truck. It isn't big and bulky nor is it heavy. Its so warm I would wear it on any cold wintery day without ever second guessing. The coat is down-filled with a convenient two-way zipper, inset knit cuffs and removable fur trim hood, the Lila Classic Winter Jacket provides protection from the elements, with a classic modern style. Designed with a flattering fit, this medium length women’s winter jacket has a wool and silk blend outer shell that is exquisite to the touch! My favorite feature of this coat is the hidden pocket on the inside that perfectly fits my Iphone Plus.

Winterberry Multiple Wear Medium To Short Jacket

My favorite thing about this coat is that it is multipurpose and you can actually wear it three different ways! You can wear it together or each separately. It's the perfect fall coat because here in Toronto the weather can be one way in the morning and another way in the evening. Its also great if I am attending a dinner party after work and need to dress up. The removable external short jacket has a 100% wool shell with genuine leather sleeves. Inner medium length vest has a 100% wool shell lined with 3M ThinsulateTM insulation.

img_3393 img_3397

 

Bellflower Black Medium Length Winter Jacket

This coat is gorgeous and so warm! I love the detachable hood and its stylish for any event. It is also extremely light and comfortable. The blue accent on the fur is an eye catcher and adds just the right hint of colour to the coat. It is definitely a classic winter jacket with 100% wool shell and leather panels draped over the shoulders lends itself to classic elegance.

The jacket consists of elements that will keep you warm in extreme weather. Elements like Tibetan lamb wool hair, which covers the inside of the hood, down fill insulation, and an adjustable belt allow for heat retention.

img_3383

Give True North a follow on their social media channels and stay warm this winter with one of their amazing coats!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thewildnorthapparel

Twitter: www.twitter.com/the_wildnorth

Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_wildnorth

Organic standards will exclude next generation of GMOs 

love-banana-minions

The National Organic Standards Board voted unanimously on Friday to update U.S. organic standards to exclude ingredients derived from next generation genetic engineering and gene editing.

This recommendation to the US Department of Agriculture’s National Organic Program will ensure that ingredients derived from new genetic engineering techniques, including synthetic biology, will not be allowed in the production or final product of foods and beverages that are certified organic. Synthetic biology is a new set of genetic engineering techniques that include using synthetic DNA to re-engineer organisms to produce substances they would not normally produce or to edit DNA so as to silence the expression of certain traits.

“The Board’s hard-fought proactive stance on synthetic biology will both help preserve the integrity of organic standards and raise awareness about this virtually unregulated and unlabeled form of genetic engineering,” said Dana Perls, food and technology policy campaigner with Friends of the Earth. “It’s critical that organic standards treat new types of genetic engineering that are rapidly entering our food and consumer products as rigorously as the first generation of GMOs.”

Like “traditional” GMOs, synthetic biology ingredients are entering food and consumer products in absence of adequate health and environmental safety assessment, oversight and labeling. Many are being falsely marketed as “natural.” Products in development include synthetic biology stevia, saffron, coconut and cacao, meant to replace plant-based ingredients, many of which are currently produced by small farmers in the Global South. There is increasing concern that these farmers’ livelihoods may be displaced by synthetic biology ingredients. Other products include gene-silenced apples, CRISPR waxy corn and Cibus Canola oil, engineered with gene editing techniques.

“The National Organic Standards Board has made clear that all kinds of genetic engineering are to be excluded from ‘organic.’ The public expects that government to actually assess the new foods that it is permitting on the market,” said Jaydee Hanson, senior policy analyst, Center for Food Safety. “Unfortunately, the government has failed to update its regulations to adequately assess these new kinds of genetically engineering. When the USDA approves that NOSB recommendations, consumers who want to avoid GMOs will be able to use the Organic Seal to know that the product is not a GMO.”

The Board’s announcement follows a growing trend of companies stating that they will not use ingredients produced via synthetic biology. The Non-GMO Project, North America’s only third party verification program for non-GMO food and products, recently updated its standards so as to include synthetic biology and new gene editing techniques. Companies such as Ben and Jerry’s (BJICA: US)Three Twins Ice Cream, Straus Family Creamery, Luna & Larry's Coconut BlissNestlé (NSRGY: OTC US), and General Mills (NYSE: GIS) have committed to “...not source vanilla flavor produced through synthetic biology,” a product that is designed to replace natural vanillin flavoring from vanilla beans. Synthetic biology vanilla flavoring, introduced by Evolva (SWX: EVE) and International Flavors and Fragrances (NYSE: IFF) in 2014, is the first major synthetic biology ingredient to enter food and beverages, marketed as “natural vanillin.” Other companies that have pledged to avoid synthetic biology ingredients entirely include Nutiva and Dr. Bronner’s.

Synthetic biology employs a new set of genetic engineering techniques that involve artificially constructing or “editing” genetic material such as DNA in order to create new forms of life, or to attempt to “reprogram” existing organisms. Despite growing concerns about the possible impacts of synthetic biology organisms on human health and the environment and a lack of independent safety assessment, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has allowed synthetic biology vanilla, DuPont’s CRISPR waxy corn and other similarly created food and cosmetic ingredients to enter the market without regulation. Existing regulations that identify GE crops and food ingredients as “Generally Regarded As Safe” use an outdated process with minimal testing requirements that rely on companies to self-evaluate the safety of their products.

More information about synthetic biology can be found here.

New Canadian investments in ALS research reflect growing knowledge about the disease and increasing likelihood of effective treatments being developed

gary

ALS Canada and Brain Canada award $4.5 million in research funding; nearly $20 million
invested in ALS research in Canada since 2014's Ice Bucket Challenge

The ALS Society of Canada (ALS Canada), in partnership with Brain Canada, today announced $4.5 million in funding for nine new ALS research projects. This means that since the Ice Bucket Challenge became a social media phenomenon in 2014, nearly $20 million has been invested in Canadian ALS research at a time when it has the potential to make the greatest impact.

ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a disease that gradually paralyzes the body, leaving people without the ability to move, talk, swallow and eventually breathe. Most people die within two to five years of being diagnosed with ALS because the disease has no effective treatment or cure. However, ALS research has advanced to a point that many ALS research experts believe effective treatments are now a matter of 'when' not 'if.'

"We hear often from people and families living with ALS that the promise of research discovery is something they can be hopeful about. The challenge is that research takes time, which is exactly what people living with ALS don't have – and why the Ice Bucket Challenge has been such a game-changer," said Tammy Moore, CEO of ALS Canada. "Because of the increased funding that the Ice Bucket Challenge has made available, we have been able to make more significant research investments than ever before. We are grateful to Canadians who donated to the Ice Bucket Challenge, to our ALS Society partners across the country and to Brain Canada and the federal government's Canada Brain Research Fund for making this research investment possible."

"Brain Canada's partnership with ALS Canada has enabled greater investment in ALS research, which will in turn accelerate progress towards the development of effective treatments," said Inez Jabalpurwala, President and CEO, Brain Canada Foundation. "In addition, the discoveries that will result from this research funding have the potential to inform how we approach other neurodegenerative diseases with similar underlying mechanisms."

The nine projects include two large-scale, multi-year team initiatives – one of which is using stem cell technology to better understand and potentially treat ALS, while the other is studying in a new way the gene most commonly linked to ALS development – and seven smaller studies that enable investigators to explore out-of-the-box research.

"Five years ago, the breadth of ALS research we are funding today would not have been possible simply because we didn't know enough about the disease to be able to ask the kinds of questions that today's researchers are investigating in their work," said Dr. David Taylor, Vice President of Research at ALS Canada. "The fact that we now have the ability to explore ALS from different angles reflects the growing body of knowledge about the disease and the increasing likelihood of effective treatments being developed."

A research team led by Dr. Guy Rouleau of McGill University and the Montreal Neurological Institute has been awarded $2.2 million to study motor neurons and astrocytes created from people living with different forms of ALS via stem cell technology. Dr. Rouleau and his team, which includes other collaborators at McGill University and the Montreal Neurological Institute as well as Université de Montréal and Université Laval, will study the biology of these stem cells to determine if their characteristics in the laboratory can represent different forms of human disease and further develop them as a potential screening mechanism for therapeutics. The tools and tests created in this project will be valuable for both Canadian and global ALS researchers as new resources to understand the disease and find new ways to treat it.

A research team led by Dr. Janice Robertson of University of Toronto has been awarded $1.6 million to understand whether the most common genetic abnormality in ALS, which occurs in the C90RF72 gene, causes or contributes to the disease through a loss of the gene's normal biological function. The majority of the research community is focusing on how the genetic abnormality in C9ORF72 might lead to an extra, toxic function, but in this five-year study, the team – which includes other collaborators at the University of Toronto as well as Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, McGill University and the Montreal Neurological Institute, and the University of British Columbia – will comprehensively analyze the potential damage to motor neurons lacking C9ORF72, and examine if both loss and gain of function mechanisms combine to cause ALS. This knowledge could fundamentally alter how therapeutics are developed for common forms of ALS as well as frontotemporal dementia (FTD), which often occurs with ALS.

Other projects that have been awarded $100,000 each in funding are:

  • Dr. Gary Armstrong at the Montreal Neurological Institute and McGill University is using a state-of-the-art technique in genetic manipulation to create new zebrafish models of ALS for the most prominent genetic cause of the disease, which relates to mutations in the C9ORF72 gene.
  • Dr. Neil Cashman at the University of British Columbia is using a unique fruit fly model to study whether a key toxic ALS protein can leap between neurons to explain spread of disease throughout the body.
  • Dr. Charles Krieger at Simon Fraser University is studying a substance called adducin that is critically linked to health at the site of connection between motor neurons and muscle, in order to understand whether this substance might represent a target for treatment to slow the progression of ALS.
  • Dr. Éric Lécuyer at Université de Montréal is using a unique set of scientific tools to comprehensively analyze the contents of key structures in ALS called stress granules.
  • Dr. Marlene Oeffinger at the Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal is studying structures called paraspeckles to understand their content and how they function, as well as how they are altered in neuronal cells that have ALS-causing mutations.
  • Dr. Alex Parker at the Université de Montreal is undertaking a study to understand how probiotics slow down the progression of ALS symptoms in worms.
  • Dr. Lisa Topolnik at the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université Laval will study how certain neurons called interneurons, which connect to motor neurons in the brain, might be implicated in the early stages of ALS.

All of the research projects  were selected through a competitive peer review process, regarded as the international benchmark of excellence in assessing projects for research funding. The peer review process engages a panel of international experts in ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases in evaluating and ranking all proposed research projects based on their scientific merit and on the potential to most quickly advance the field of ALS research in order to develop effective treatments. All aspects of the peer review process are executed in full partnership with Brain Canada, whose funds are provided through a partnership with Health Canada known as the Canada Brain Research Fund.

Approximately 1,000 Canadians are diagnosed with ALS each year. At any time, there are approximately 2,500 to 3,000 people living with the disease in Canada, and the average cost of caring for one person with ALS is between $150,000 and $250,000. Every day, two to three Canadians will die of ALS.

About Canada's ALS Societies
ALS Societies across Canada fundraise on a regional basis to provide services and support to people and families living with ALS and to contribute to the funding of the ALS Canada Research Program. The ALS Canada Research Program funds peer-reviewed research grants and fosters collaboration amongst Canadian researchers, helping to nurture new ideas and build capacity. ALS Societies advocate federally, provincially and locally on behalf of people and families living with ALS for better government support and access within the healthcare system.

About Brain Canada and the Canada Brain Research Fund 
Brain Canada is a national non-profit organization headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, that enables and supports excellent, innovative, paradigm-changing brain research in Canada. For more than one decade, Brain Canada has made the case for the brain as a single, complex system with commonalities across the range of neurological disorders, mental illnesses and addictions, brain and spinal cord injuries. Looking at the brain as one system has underscored the need for increased collaboration across disciplines and institutions, and a smarter way to invest in brain research that is focused on outcomes that will benefit patients and families. Brain Canada's vision is to understand the brain, in health and illness, to improve lives and achieve societal impact.

The Canada Brain Research Fund is a public-private partnership between the Government of Canada and Brain Canada, designed to encourage Canadians to increase their support of brain research, and maximize the impact and efficiency of those investments. Brain Canada and its partners have committed to raising $120 million, which is being matched by Health Canada on a 1:1 basis for a total of $240 million.  For more information, visit www.braincanada.ca

SOURCE ALS Canada

EMILY MALE WANTS YOU TO HAVE YOURSELF

A FOODIE FITTIE CHRISTMAS

 emily

Gearing up to Roll Out Her Exciting New 21 Day Program

That's "A Journey To The Best You," The 16 Year Old

Health and Wellness Authority Offers Insightful Tips

To Deal With Holiday Eating Temptations and Depression 

Emily Male, founder of Foodie Fittie
On a mission to help her fellow teens to overcome their low self-esteem and find a pathway towards good nutrition, fitness, confidence and hope, Emily Male is currently gearing up for the early 2017 rollout of FoodieFittie (www.foodiefittie.com), her extraordinary, multi-faceted new 21 Day program which she designed as a "Journey To The Best You."

 

But before all the excitement begins with that, the Georgia and Nashvillebased 16 year old health and wellness authority is looking forward to a wonderful holiday season with family and friends. Because of her incredible personal journey - including a dramatic 78 pound weight loss in a single year and a renewed commitment to healthy eating, staying physically fit -  Emily has some great insights and tips on how to eat right, overcome those bad temptations when it comes to overeating and fatty and sugary foods and avoiding depression this holiday season.

 

Based on her experiences and the knowledge she has gained as she worked on her program, she believes that eating the proper foods while not denying oneself the pleasure of reasonable portions of the cookies, cakes and pies you want can go a long way towards combating the winter blues. She will make her choices this year based on what worked for her during the holidays in 2015.

 

"Last Christmas," she says, "I made healthier choices, like instead of eating high fat meat, I ate low fat turkey - but I still ate dessert. If I knew I wanted that dessert, during the main meal I would avoid eating mashed potatoes. Even though the temptation is there to gorge yourself because tasty things are hitting your eyes everywhere you look, I think moderation is the key. Still, it's the holidays and if you restrict yourself too much it might be hard on keeping a jolly holiday spirit!"

 

Emily adds that while she doesn't eat an unlimited amount of goodies anymore, she has given herself some restrictions. "We all have to do what works best for us," she says. "I work hard all year long to maintain a certain weight and stay fit, and I'm not going to NOT eat something during the holidays just because it's got low nutritional value. Holiday time with our friends and family is important, and food is part of those gatherings. I would avoid excessive snacking but allow yourself a small portion of dessert. And keep this in mind: even if on a few days you consume extra calories, your body will know what to do with it. If you eat badly for two days, but then on the third day go back to eating your normal amount and consuming your usual amount of calories, your body will drop the few pounds it may gain."

 

Emily is currently in training for a body building competition this coming February, so she's watching her sugar and fat intake this holiday season. But make no mistake, she won't deprive herself of a few decadent treats. She also advises that when you know you're going to eat a huge meal later in the day, like on Thanksgiving, it's a good idea to eat normally during the early part of the day. Starving yourself for hours until mealtime is a guaranteed ticket to overstuffing yourself later, which can make you gain weight and get sick.

 

"When you understand the FoodieFittie lifestyle, you know when to stop indulging and get back to the nutritional program that makes you healthy," she says. "Maybe it would make me happy in the moment to go crazy and eat more than one cupcake or piece of cake after dinner, but afterwards - you guessed it - I would feel bad. But if I allow myself to just have one, I won't feel bad about any of it, physically or psychologically. I always look at the big picture."

 

One of the days in Emily's FoodieFittie program is devoted to depression, and Emily chronicles the painstaking route she took out of some very dark places inside her. Now that she's on the other side of things, and wakes up every day full of joy and determination to live a better, healthier life, she is happy to offer a few bits of advice to make yourself feel better during the holidays (but if you have diagnosed chemical depression, that is something beyond the scope of her expertise).

 

"My message is pretty simple even if getting here isn't easy sometimes: love yourself," she says. "There are so many little things you can do during the holidays to combat whatever blues you are feeling. You can give yourself a facial, read a book you love, go for a walk, go to the gym, do yoga, watch a great movie, listen to music, write things you are grateful for in a journal..Any of those things are good. My story is that I say I ran myself out of depression. I learned that molecular biologists and neurologists have begun to show that exercise may alter brain chemistry in much the same way that antidepressant drugs do -- regulating the key neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine. So even if you live in a cold climate and have to do it inside, get moving and you'll experience some surprising results! The one thing you cannot do when you're depressed is sit around the house thinking of how depressed you are. That will start a downward spiral."

 

Because her oldest brother Ryan has been battling drug addiction for many years, Emily is keenly aware of the toll family tensions can take on the holiday season. Family meals can be uncomfortable for some, but Emily says it's best not to blame yourself for things outside your control and to simply "take relationships with your loved ones one day at a time." She adds: "I might have been sad to see my parents fight or feel like I was losing my brother because of what he was going through, but I got through some hard times simply by doing what I had to do, like going to school, doing chores, working and living life normally in spite of the problems. You have to live your life no matter what troubles are going on."

 

Happily, Emily is looking forward this holiday season to spending time with her family and her grandparents, who will be visiting from Florida along with her visiting brothers Ryan and Max. "It will be nice having everyone together," she says. "Everyone knows I love to cook, and I'll have the opportunity to make cheesecake and chocolate fudge cake, buffalo cheese dip and a bunch of other things - which I will eat in moderation of course! Cooking is another thing I find very therapeutic and when in doubt, that always makes my spirits bright around the holidays."

Having survived the trauma of being bullied, feeling lost and feeling sluggish and fearful of being mocked because of her extra weight, Emily's FoodieFittie program reflects her longtime desire to let her fellow teens (and others) in on many of the insights she's learned and put into practice that completely transformed her life. With the help of various mentors and fitness, nutrition and self-help experts, she created a detailed step by step process designed to change the lives of her peers.

 

"For the first time in my life," she says, "I'm on a mission, and that mission is a pathway to hope, a way for teens like me to make a comeback in their lives. I started FoodieFittie to help teen girls struggling with their weight and self-image, to help them feel more confident in who they are. From all of the challenges I have faced, I have learned that if you take control of your dieting habits and are consistent with your fitness activities, you will have great results."

Cold- Q Oral Spray - Product Review

coldq

I was recently sent the cold-Q oral spray to try. Which is 100% natural. It's pesticide/heavy metal free. Its also non-gmo.  They sent me a 20ml bottle. Cold-Q enhancement is a unique oral spray that is made up of a proprietary formula of natural herbs, designed to be delivered to the back of the throat. This special formula is composed of herbs that are listed on Health Canada's Traditional Chinese Medicine Ingredient (TCMI) monograph.

Although I have not been sick I had my boyfriend test it out (he got sick) at the time the bottle arrived. Unlike most sprays of this nature that can be harsh or numbing he found this to be refreshing and cooling on the back of his throat. He felt relief from it and definitely used it every day until he felt better.

The spray was easy to use he said. All you have to do is simply shake the bottle, rotate the point so that it points upwards at a 45 degree angle, tilt your head back and spray 5 times into the back of your throat. They recommend you do this 3 times a day. They also recommend that you wait 30 minutes after spraying before eating or drinking.

My boyfriend and I highly recommend this natural product and find it to be a great solution to relief when you are sick. It was safe, convenient and easy to use. You can also stash it in your purse or pocket easily. For more information visit www.coldq.com 

Thanks again at Cold-Q for allowing me to test out your product and helping my boyfriend feel better!

Burnbrae Farms: EGG Creations – Recipes

pizza

Scrambled Vegetarian Hash Brown Pizza

PREP TIME: 10 min.

MAKES: 1 pizza, 10 slices

INGREDIENTS:

1 pkg (500g) Egg Creations Fat Free Garden Veggie

1 cup (250 mL) cooked diced potatoes (1 leftover baked potato)

½ cup (125 mL) black beans, rinsed and drained

Veggies and herbs of your choice (diced tomatoes, diced sweet peppers, diced avocado, corn kernels, chopped basil or cilantro)

1 cup (250 mL) shredded mozzarella cheese

Ranch dressing, to serve

DIRECTIONS:

1. Grease a large frying pan with cooking spray and heat over medium heat.

2. Add Egg Creations Fat Free Garden Veggie eggs, diced potatoes, black beans, veggies and herbs of your choice and season well with salt and pepper. Let cook, covered, until almost set, about 7 min.

3. Top with mozzarella cheese, cover and continue cooking for 2-3 min., until cheese has melted. Remove from heat and let stand 5 min. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into 10 slices. Pack for lunches or grab for breakfast on the go. Serve with ranch dressing as a dipping sauce and top with extra herbs, if desired.

TIPS:

* Feel free to add different vegetables like sliced mushrooms, chopped asparagus and diced eggplant.

* Try adding different types of cheese or a combination of cheeses like shredded cheddar and Havarti.

* This hash brown pizza is delicious cold. You can make in advance and eat cold for lunch or re-heat slices in the microwave.

United Breast Cancer Foundation (UBCF) Releases New #FlauntYourFight Public Service Announcement in NYC’s Times Square
PSA focusing on body positivity in breast cancer patients and survivors

karina-chaves-5-1
The United Breast Cancer Foundation (UBCF) follows their recent PSA campaign on the importance of early breast cancer detection with the empowering PSA, #FlauntYourFight airing in New York City’s Times Square. The PSA is a call to action for all breast cancer patients and survivors to be proud of their bodies, their struggles, and their journeys in the fight against the disease. The provocative imagery of women dressed as warriors is airing on a full HD billboard located prominently at 1500 Broadway now through January 5, 2017. The 10 second ad that runs 3 times an hour, 20 hours a day, relays a visual message of UBCF’s goal to relieve the stresses of all those who are affected by breast cancer. Neutron Media assisted with creative production.
The images were first seen in a UBCF-sponsored art show, “The Faces of Breast Cancer,” by Frenchphotographer Pascal Latil, in August 2015. Women may face psychological stress for remaining vigilant intheir appearance after losing either their breasts or hair. The #FlauntYourFight campaign gives a voice to manyclients served at UBCF and far beyond. Stephanie Mastroianni, UBCF President and Executive Director, says, “Our hope is to continue to debunk the stereotype of beauty and what defines a woman and her femininity.” Mastroianni continued, “This is milestone for UBCF; [continuing] a branding opportunity in Times Square,which is truly the center of the world. Over 26 million people visit Times Square every year – that’s nearly 50,000 per day seeing UBCF's #FlauntYourFight PSA.”
Maintaining a normal lifestyle can be the most comforting service provided by UBCF programs. This new messaging is intended to empower breast cancer patients and survivors to be proactive about treatment and aftercare. UBCF’s seven programs offer financial and emotional support, as well as a comprehensive approach to managing many aspects of living with cancer.
About Neutron Media
Neutron Media, Inc. has thrived for fourteen years by providing outstanding customer service and introducing business and non-profit organizations to the exciting, far-reaching possibilities of advertising through LED Outdoor Media. Neutron Media’s current jewel in the crown is the stunning HD screen at the corner 1500 Broadway and West 43rd Street, in the heart of Times Square in New York City. http://www.neutronmedia.com
About UBCF
UBCF is committed to offering breast health and wellness services focused on cancer prevention, screening, treatment and over-all wellness. UBCF’s mission, to make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer, is carried out every day through seven life-supporting patient and family programs available to women, men and families nation-wide. UBCF never denies services to anyone regardless of age, race, gender, ethnicity, income or medical insurance coverage. If you are in need of breast health services, please visit UBCF at http://www.ubcf.org or call toll-free, 877-822-4287. Tax-deductible contributions may be made towards UBCF’s programs. UBCF accepts vehicle and property donations as well. Contributions may be mailed to UBCF, P.O. Box 2421, Huntington, NY 11743, or donate through the Combined Federal Campaign, #77934.

Burnbrae Farms: EGG Creations – Recipeseggy-ramen

Ramen Egg Cups

PREP TIME: 10 min.

MAKES: 12

INGREDIENTS:

2 x 85g ramen noodles, cooked according to package directions

Egg Creations Whole Eggs Original Mushroom & Spinach

1 tbsp (15 mL) soy sauce

1 tsp (5 mL) hot sauce, plus extra to serve

¼ cup (60 mL) sliced green onions, plus extra to serve

DIRECTIONS:

1. Grease well a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Place cooked ramen noodles in a large bowl. Pour over Egg Creations Whole Eggs Original Mushroom & Spinach. Stir to combine. Equally divide noodles into prepared muffin tin, letting excess egg drip back into bowl. Leave a dip in the middle of each noodle “nest” using your hands. Place in the oven and bake 5 min., to set noodles.

3. To remaining Egg Creations Original Mushroom & Spinach add soy sauce, hot sauce and green onions. Divide egg mixture between ramen “nests”. Continue to bake in oven until egg has completely set, 10 – 12 min. Remove egg cups from muffin tin, using a butter knife to loosen edges if necessary.

4. Top with extra hot sauce and a sprinkle of extra green onions, if using before serving.

TIPS:

* Use leftover spaghetti noodles instead of ramen noodles.

* Try adding a drop of sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to ramen cups.

* Replace green onions with chopped cilantro or chopped fresh basil.