Monthly sales and new listings in the Fraser Valley continue blistering pace; surge in inventory starting to calm prices
SURREY, British Columbia, May 04, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- For the eighth consecutive month, Fraser Valley real estate saw record-breaking sales with April topping the previous monthly high set in 2016. The 2020/2021 pandemic seller’s market in the Fraser Valley has now surpassed the previous longest stretch of seven consecutive, record-breaking months, last set in 2015/2016.
In April, the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) processed 3,016 sales on its Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®), an increase of 338 per cent compared to April 2020 and a 9 per cent decrease compared to March. (Note that sales and new listings in April 2020 were significantly restricted due to the pandemic lockdown.) The previous record high for sales in April was 2,969 in 2016.
Larry Anderson, President of the Board, said, “Although it remains very competitive and challenging for buyers, April could be the turning point in this historic market. In the last couple of weeks, we have seen evidence of a change in pace.
“In general, we’re seeing fewer multiple offers, fewer subject-free offers, and homes over-priced are starting to sit longer. These are positive signs that the market is responding to near-record levels of new inventory.”
The Board received the highest volume of new listings ever in March 2021 and that elevated pace continued in April. Last month, the Board received 5,018 new listings, an increase of 254 per cent compared to April 2020, and a decrease of 1 per cent compared to March 2021. The influx of new listings improved supply with total active inventory reaching 6,030 in April 2021, 20 per cent higher than in March and the highest it’s been in six months.
Baldev Gill, Chief Executive Officer of the Board, added, “Buyers and sellers will note that we’re already seeing increases in home prices start to slow in response to the new supply.
“If you have an active listing now or are thinking of selling, it’s critical to work with a professional REALTOR® to ensure your asking price is realistic and competitive based on today’s market, not yesterday’s.”
Across Fraser Valley, in March, the average number of days to sell a single-family detached home was 13 and a townhome was 10 days. Apartments took, on average, 22 days to sell.
MLS® HPI Benchmark Price Activity
Single Family Detached: At $1,293,300, the Benchmark price for an FVREB single-family detached home increased 4.5 per cent compared to March 2021 and increased 30.3 per cent compared to April 2020.
Townhomes: At $652,400, the Benchmark price for an FVREB townhomeincreased 4.5 per cent compared to March 2021 and increased 18.0 per cent compared to April 2020.
Apartments: At $478,700, the Benchmark price for an FVREB apartment/condo increased 2.9 per cent compared to March 2021 and increased 9.3 per cent compared to April 2020.
The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board is an association of 3,926 real estate professionals who live and work in the BC communities of Abbotsford, Langley, Mission, North Delta, Surrey, and White Rock. The FVREB will mark its 100-year anniversary in October 2021.
May is National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month: Thanks to a Transplant, a West Virginia Mom is Winning Her Battle
May 3, 2021-- May is National Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Awareness Month. More than 30,000 adults and kids in the United States have CF. In West Virginia, a CF survivor is currently winning her 37-year battle with the disease -- thanks to her life-saving double lung transplant. Her transplant is not only allowing her to breathe easier; it is also the reason she will be celebrating a very special Mother’s Day this year with her daughter.
More than 10 million Americans are symptomless carriers of CF, and 1,000 new cases are diagnosed each year. CF causes thick mucus to build up in the lungs, which over time leads to sinus issues, difficult food digestion and permanent lung damage due to constant infections. CF is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the lungs, but also the pancreas, liver, kidneys and intestines.
For Kristen Jagodowski of Falling Waters, West Virginia, these statistics and challenges have been her reality since was diagnosed the day she was born in May 1984. Kristen always knew that one day her CF would progress to a level that would require her to undergo a life-saving double lung transplant, but she never let that knowledge stop her from living life to the fullest and pursuing her dreams. Now post transplant and enjoying every second with her greatest gift, her daughter, Kristen recently reflected on her transplant journey to date and her beloved role as ‘Mother to Taylor.’
Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, “Life is a journey, not a destination.” There is not a quote that better explains my transplant journey. The beginning is clear … the road is long … but the end always remains unknown.
I was born with a genetic disease called Cystic Fibrosis. My parents never knew anyone with CF so it came as quite a surprise. I had a healthy older brother. When I was rushed to a different hospital after birth, my family was shocked and fearful of what the future held. Fast forward to today. I will soon be celebrating my 37thbirthday. At the time of my diagnosis as an infant, the doctors told my parents not to expect me to live past high school. I can proudly say I proved them wrong, and I now know my journey started then and there.
Growing up I was relatively healthy. I took medicine daily, but never experienced any serious illness. I visited a special clinic annually. I was a normal kid. I enjoyed sports, which likely attributed to my good health. I had a great upbringing.
During my freshman year of college I experienced my first ‘CF exacerbation.’ At the time, I did not really know that was the case. I was diagnosed with pneumonia. Years later I started to see a slight decline in my health. In February 2008, I married my best friend and we went on our honeymoon. On the way home I got very sick. We returned home and my condition gradually worsened. I finally scheduled a doctor’s appointment at the University of Virginia, and I was immediately admitted to the hospital. I was devastated. Although I always knew my health could deteriorate, for some reason at age 23 you feel invincible. I was newly married and starting a new life. Hospitalizations were simply not part of that picture.
Sadly, my health never returned to what it was before. The next several years were non-stop hospitalizations, IV therapies, doctors’ appointments, procedures, labs and tests. Although I remained upbeat and tried to live a ‘normal’ life, I could feel things slipping away. When it came to starting a family, the road was difficult. We tried naturally for one year and finally decided to see a specialist who told us it was not possible for me to have a healthy pregnancy. My world came crashing down. My health was worsening and my dream of becoming a mother was shattered. My dreams were being taken away.
God has always put amazing people in my life. One of those is my childhood best friend, Jennifer. We were both seven years old when her family moved in down the street from us. I had no idea then just how dear of a friend she would be. Fast forward to December 2009 after receiving the devastating news about not being able to have children. I was on the phone with Jennifer updating her about our progress with adoption. Jennifer asked me if she could be our gestational carrier. Wow. In May 2010 we implanted our embryo and Jennifer was pregnant with our miracle baby.
February 2011, on our third wedding anniversary, Taylor Mae was born. My dream came! I was finally a mother. As many mothers know, pregnancy takes a toll on your body, which I did not experience. But motherhood also takes a toll. In 2012, I began the preliminary tests for my first transplant evaluation. It was concluded I was too healthy to be listed for new lungs, but it was something we should start thinking about. In 2013, we decided to move my care to the Johns Hopkins Adult CF Clinic. I was followed carefully there; the reality of transplant started to take hold.
My health continued to decline. I soaked up every moment I had at home with my beautiful baby girl. After a very rough year in 2015, my medical team decided it was time to begin serious discussions about transplant. I was in and out of the hospital, spending months on IVs, and my lung function was down in the 20s. In 2016, I started pulmonary rehabilitation to get myself in the best shape I could, and in July I was officially listed for a bi-lateral lung transplant. There is immense anxiety and fear that comes with being listed for a transplant. There was so much I wanted to do first. The week before being listed we moved into a new home. And just three weeks later, Taylor would be starting kindergarten. There was simply so much to do.
Yet again, life was out of my control. Three weeks after being listed I was called for a new set of lungs. It was the night before Taylor’s first day of kindergarten. I had just put her to bed. After a missed call and a text, we threw together what we could and headed to Johns Hopkins in Baltimore. That night I received a beautiful set of healthy lungs. My seven-hour surgery was a success. My medical team was amazing. They were able to send me home just eight days after my life-saving transplant, and for the first time in my life … I took long, deep breaths. Never had I known my normal was not normal.
I wish I could say everything from then on was easy. I traded one health issue for another. I continue to be on a lot of medications, endure lots of tests andlab work. Doctors’ appointments continued and even some hospitalizations. Sadly my marriage ended and life was not as perfect as I thought it would be post transplant. But I am alive. I am breathing and loving every minute. I am able to work and provide a good life for my daughter. I am able to enjoy sunny rays on a summer day and relish the taste of a hot cup of coffee first thing in the morning. My life and transplant journey are intertwined and I cannot wait to see what comes next on this journey.
Kristen attributes a big part of her successful transplant journey to date to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA). “COTA completely understands that a transplant, of any kind, is a journey,” Kristen said. “Many people understand the difficulties associated with getting a transplant and the long road to recovery, but very few understand it does not end there. COTA is with a transplant family every step along the way … it is what makes this amazing organization so vital to anyone on a transplant journey.”
Kristen learned about COTA when she had her official transplant evaluation at Johns Hopkins. A transplant social worker talked to her about the myriad of transplant-related expenses associated with a double lung transplant and suggested Kristen reach out to COTA to see how they might be able to help. Kristen remembers the social worker telling her a transplant carries with it an emotional, physical and monetary burden; therefore, she was eager to learn more about COTA. Kristen had an uplifting and hope-filled call with a COTA staff member. She completed and submitted the necessary paperwork and in late May 2016 the Jagodowski family officially became part of the COTA Family.
The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) uniquely understands that parents who care for a child or young adult before, during and after a life-saving transplant have enough to deal with, so COTA’s model shifts the responsibility for fundraising to a team of trained volunteers. COTA is a 501(c)3 charity so all contributions to COTA are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law, and COTA funds are available for a lifetime of transplant-related expenses.
On July 26, 2016, a COTA fundraising specialist trained the family’s large group of volunteers at the family’s beloved home church. The COTA staff member talked to the team of volunteers about COTA’s fundraising process and shared information about fundraising templates, fundraising guidance and the no-cost website they would be given for fundraising and promoting the family’s story. This group of family and friends quickly got to work organizing fundraisers for COTA in honor of Kristen J to help with mounting transplant-related expenses. Working nonstop they planned and implemented creative COTA fundraisers that generated more than $40,000 for transplant-related expenses.
“Once we met with COTA a huge weight was lifted,” Kristen said. “COTA provided great advice on how to raise money, continually tracked the team’s progress and offered ongoing encouragement, shared helpful campaign materials and tech support … all of the things that were necessary for the volunteers to gain the support and confidence of our community. COTA was simply amazing in helping the volunteers know exactly what to do and to get going raising funds for transplant-related expenses.”
Every day Kristen is excited to wake up and see what blessings the day will bring. She loves life and is living it to its fullest each and every day. When she thinks about her favorite things, the top of her list is her daughter, Taylor. She also loves spending time with her friends and family, watching the television show, “Friends” and drinking Mountain Dew and coffee.
“My hope for the future is to live a long and healthy life with my daughter at my side enjoying all of my favorite things. I am now almost five years post transplant and COTA is still on this journey with me. Doctors’ appointments, medications, procedures, travel expenses are all part of my life and all of those come with a cost. The transplant-related bills do not stop. I am so thankful COTA’s support and guidance continues to be a vital part of my journey, relieving the financial stress still today. What a blessing it is to know COTA will continue to help me breathe easier and give me HOPE … for a lifetime.”
She continued, “COTA has been such a blessing for me in many ways and I am so very thankful for all they do. Even with the uncertainty in our world, it is good to know our family can count on COTA through it all.”
Happy Mother’s Day to an Amazing COTA Mom from your COTA Family!
For more information about the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA),
or to find a COTA family in your area, please email kim@cota.org.
COTA Patient Kristen Jagodowski, Lung Transplant Recipient, and Her Daughter
Optimi Health Partnership with Numinus Wellness Provides Update on First All-Natural Psilocybin Protocol
--R&D Program Developing 100% Optimi-Owned Psychedelic Capsule for Human Clinical Trial Dosing Study
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 04, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Optimi Health Corp. (CSE: OPTI) (OTC: OPTHF) (FRA: 8BN) (“Optimi” or the “Company”), developers of a vertically integrated functional mushroom brand focused on the health and wellness sector, is pleased to announce that its previously announced lab services agreement with Numinus Wellness Inc. ("Numinus") (TSXV: NUMI) is progressing forward with an initial candidate for clinical trials, subject to Health Canada approvals.
Recognized as a global leader in supporting and expanding the safe, accessible, and evidence-based use of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies (PAP), Numinus is aiding Optimi’s mission to further the research and development of all-natural, Canadian-grown psilocybin-producing mushrooms and related product formulations.
Optimi Chairman of the Board JJ Wilson notes, “Today’s news is another step forward as we prepare for our first all-natural proprietary psychedelic mushroom formulation for human trial. We recently noted several advancements at our substantial facilities in Princeton, BC which are ultimately designed to meet or exceed GMP standards for production. This commitment to cultivation, production and processing excellence is reflected by our dedication to “all-natural” formulations. This approach, combined with early-stage research aimed at quickly moving into human trials is all part of a multi-faceted strategic plan aimed at ensuring we have advanced stage product formulations in readiness for timely regulatory review and approval. Optimi’s strategy to generate revenue and sell functional mushroom products is all about laying the groundwork to develop world-class processes to support and build our all-natural mushroom brand. The heavy lifting we are doing today with Numinus will scale into multiple development projects and revenue streams aimed at an array of future commercial opportunities focused on treating a variety of human health conditions naturally and safely.”
As part of the research and development agreement with Numinus, Optimi gained near immediate access to services encompassing laboratories, equipment, and expert talent specifically related to Psilocybe mushrooms, psychedelic compounds, and formulations within Numinus’ licensed facilities. The pre-submission for Optimi’s first candidate whole psilocybe mushroom extract will be fully documented in readiness for applicable Health Canada review in preparation for entry into the proposed clinical trial with IMPACT at the University of Calgary. Optimi believes several additional candidates may be forthcoming and could join the initial candidate profile, thereby jumpstarting the research clinicians’ efforts through access to multiple options for study. All resulting intellectual property (IP) will be 100% owned by Optimi.
Optimi’s CEO, Mike Stier concludes, “The relationship with Numinus has rapidly delivered right out of the gate with what we trust will be a very significant collection of all-natural formulations for study. Attention to detail and rigorous documentation are critical at this stage as we must be prepared to validate the work to the clinical trial team. Accelerated advancement is critical for us to capture sector leadership in order to create tangible returns to our shareholders. This is very important to us. So, I’m truly pleased by today’s news and thank everyone involved for the collaborative approach and eagerness to move forward. The path ahead is getting clearer every day.”
Mike Stier President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
ABOUT OPTIMI (CSE: OPTI) (OTC: 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 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 applied for 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.
FORWARD‐LOOKING STATEMENTS 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 the dealer’s license application, activities proposed to be conducted under the Company’s research exemption 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 Final Prospectus dated February 12, 2021. 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.
Tick Related Inquiries and Lyme Disease on the Rise in Canada
TORONTO, May 04, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With summer fast approaching and people spending more time outside amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Abell Pest Control sees an increase in tick activity across the country and the potential for an increase in the spread of Lyme disease.
“We are seeing a record number of tick inquiries coming into Abell over the past year,” said John Abell, President, Abell Pest Control. “The number of tick calls has increased by more than 1000% and we want people to take extra precautions in parks and wooded areas to protect themselves from ticks and reduce the transmission of Lyme disease.”
May is Lyme Disease Awareness month in Canada. Lyme disease is spread through the bite of infected ticks and is becoming more common in Canada. Since 2009, reported cases of Lyme disease in Canada have increased 14-fold according to the Public Health Agency of Canada. Several provinces are considered hotspots including Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia.
“The best prognosis for Lyme disease is achieved when it is diagnosed and treated early, but many people don’t recall a tick bite and may be unaware of their risk. Prevention is the best strategy to avoid Lyme and its potentially serious complications, including those affecting the heart and nervous system.” Dr. Melanie Wills, Director, G. Magnotta Lyme Disease Research Lab, University of Guelph. Lyme Disease Statistics
Lyme is the most prevalent vector-borne infection in the northern hemisphere
Ticks carrying the Lyme bacteria can live in urbanized landscapes including parks, playgrounds, and residential areas
Lyme can initially present like flu with headache, joint and muscle pain
Only an estimated 9% of people develop a classic “bull's eye” rash at the tick bite site
While tick populations tend to gravitate to wooded or bushy areas with tall grasses, they are also found around homes in shrubs or leaf piles around the house and parks and trails.
Reduce your chance of being bitten by wearing protective clothing to prevent ticks from attaching to your skin. Wear closed-toed shoes, long sleeve shirts that fit tightly around the wrist, and long-legged pants tucked into your socks or boots. When out hiking or walking, try and stay in the centre of the trail. Wear light-coloured clothes to make spotting ticks easier. Always use insect repellents containing DEET or Icaridin on your skin and clothing, And when you return home put clothes immediately in the dryer on high heat to help kill any ticks that may remain.
The G. Magnotta Lyme Disease Research Lab brings together leading scientists with the goal of combating Lyme and related diseases. Abell Pest Control has established a scholarship in Lyme Disease research. For more information on their work, or to donate, visit: gmagnottafoundation.com.
Abell Pest Control is a North American leader in pest control, hygiene, and disinfection services offering businesses and homeowners effective, safe and dependable services since 1924. To learn more about Abell visit: www.abellpestcontrol.com.
Addiction and Art: Spotlight on Dopamine, The Mess and Throw, now screening on the Planet Classroom Network YouTube Channel, serve as discussion prompts for youth mental health and well-being.
NEW YORK (PRWEB) MAY 03, 2021
According to the World Health Organization, mental health conditions account for 16% of the global burden of disease and injury in young people aged 10 - 19 years old. Mental health and well-being and the everyday obstacles that make them challenging is the theme of the new Planet Classroom show entitled Journeys to Well-Being. Orb, the show’s virtual host, unites the creators of 3 films now screening on the Planet Classroom Network YouTube Channel: The Mess, Addiction and Art: Spotlight on Dopamine, and Throw, along with youth voices to discuss some of the challenges of mental health, violence, poverty, and substance abuse. Audiences will get insights into overcoming adversity via coping mechanisms including the arts and finding one’s purpose. “Substance abuse is a serious issue,” says Sofia Rosenblatt from Chile. “If we are open to talk about it and learn about it in ways that are unconventional but engaging and judgment-free, such as art, then we can prevent future generations from developing addictions, and we can prevent future generations from being misinformed about the topic.”
The Planet Classroom Network, organized by CMRubinWorld, brings together musicians, dancers, video game creators, filmmakers, learning innovators and emerging technologists from all over the world to entertain, educate and engage youth, and to provide a rich cultural experience at a time when art and learning institutions everywhere are not accessible. Curators and content contributors include Global Nomads, Global Oneness, the Martha Graham Dance Company, Commffest, KIDS FIRST!, Dream a Dream Foundation, OddWorld Inhabitants, Psyon Games, Challenge 59, LXL Ideas, Alliance for Young Artists & Writers/Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, Creative Visions Foundation, Battery Dance, SIMA Classroom, Young Voices for the Planet, Bard Conservatory, Taking It Global, Materials for the Arts, Book Creator, XTalks, NFFTY, Young People’s Chorus of New York City, The International Forum for the Literature and Culture of Peace, Ryan Wong Classroom, The Global Search for Education, Voice America, Rocketium and Brandartica. Young people from around the world played a significant role in conceptualizing, creating, and producing the network’s vision and programming.
Ontario Brain Institute Announces Funding For Community-Led Organizations
OBI-GEEK program to address unmet needs of the community and brings care closer to home
TORONTO, May 4, 2021 /CNW/ - Three outstanding community-led organizations will receive $343,000 in funding and support from the Ontario Brain Institute (OBI) over the next two years through their Growing Expertise in Evaluation and Knowledge Translation (GEEK) program; an initiative targeting programs across Ontario that aim to improve the lives of people living with brain disorders by bringing care closer to home.
"Our GEEK program was developed to recognize and amplify the work being done on the ground by community-led partners who can help reduce the stress on the healthcare system and address crucial gaps in our community – so that care can be local, accessible and more personal," said Dr. Tom Mikkelsen, President & Scientific Director, OBI. "We've seen over the past year how the pandemic has amplified the need for sustainable, targeted and personalized care in communities across the province, and the GEEK program helps address that need."
The winning groups of the 2021 OBI-GEEK program all address vulnerable communities with great need:
Family Navigation Project (Greater Toronto Area): The Family Navigation Project provides free-of-charge support to youth ages 13-26 with mental health and addictions concerns and their families. Through the program experts help youth navigate and access the most appropriate services and resources.
The Acquired Brain Injury Transition Program Vista Centre Brain Injury Services (Ottawa): The Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Transition Program supports the safe transition of ABI clients back to the community through a counseling partnership with The Robin Easey Centre of The Ottawa Hospital Rehabilitation Centre.
Epilepsy-Specific Mental Health Program Epilepsy Ontario (across Ontario): The Epilepsy-Specific Mental Health Program in Ontario delivers remote-based mental health services to people living with epilepsy in areas where there is no local mental health programming or Community Epilepsy Agency.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has laid bare the importance of having quality healthcare available close to home, and the 2021 winners of the GEEK program will play a direct role in providing that critical care," said Ross Romano, Minister of Colleges and Universities. "The Ontario Brain Institute is a leader in bringing together community partners to improve the health and wellbeing of Ontarians who are living with brain disorders and in increasing the availability of much needed community and home supports."
With allocated funding of $1.1million over five years, a goal of OBI-GEEK is to help community-led organizations spread or scale their programs and build evaluation capacity to help secure long-term, sustainable funding. Three years in the running OBI-GEEK has supported nine community-led organizations continue their work supporting people living with brain disorders.
One such example is of Ontario Brain Injury Association's Brief Intensive Case Management – Acquired Brain Injury – the program that connects individuals living with acquired brain injury and co-occurring diagnoses of addictions and/or mental illness to primary care and other services was able to secure four more years of additional funding after OBI's initial investments.
While Kids Can Fly, a GEEK recipient in 2020, was able to grow their program that trains women who have recovered from post-partum depression, to deliver a nine-week group Cognitive Behavioural Therapy informed support program to women who are currently struggling with depression following childbirth.
"Kids Can Fly is incredibly grateful for the funding from the OBI-GEEK program which has allowed us to grow and sustain our support for women experiencing postpartum depression," said Sharon Brooks, Executive Director, Kids Can Fly. "COVID 19 increased the stress for postnatal women so more moms have been reaching out for help. The result was almost doubling our numbers of participants as well as confirming that the CBT model is successful when provided virtually."
It's results like these that Sugy Kodeeswaran from Greater Toronto's Family Navigation Project is hoping to see for their own important work.
"We know that we are making an impact, but we also know there are more people we can be reaching," says Sugy Kodeeswaran, Executive Director of the Family Navigation Project. "With support from OBI, we will be able to implement and expand our youth engagement strategy – which helps reach out to more young people directly who are struggling with mental health and addictions challenges."
For more information on the 2021 OBI-GEEK winners, please visit the website.
Please note that all the 2021 OBI-GEEK winners are available for interview.
About the Ontario Brain Institute:
The Ontario Brain Institute is a not-for-profit organization that accelerates discovery and innovation, benefiting both patients and the economy. Our collaborative 'team science' approach promotes brain research, commercialization and care by connecting researchers, clinicians, industry, patients, and their advocates to improve the lives of those living with brain disorders. Welcome to Brain Central. Visit www.braininstitute.ca for more information. Follow us on Twitter (@OntarioBrain). Funding provided, in part by, the Government of Ontario.
The Growing Expertise in Evaluation and Knowledge Translation (GEEK) program provides funding, evaluation expertise, and support to community-led programs and services for people living with brain disorders. GEEK supports the sustainability, scale or spread of these programs, to improve the quality and quantity of evidence-based care in the community.
SOURCE Ontario Brain Institute
Embrace Your Imperfections and Embark Upon a Healing Journey with God as Your Guide
Seattle, WA, May 4, 2021 — Crippling fear permeated every aspect of Christine Soule’s life from an early age and followed her into adulthood. Her past of brokenness — abuse, dysfunction, addiction and other trauma — could have very well defined her future. But once she turned to God and let Him lead the way, she found a path toward a brighter future.
“The key is discovering who you are in Christ — your true identify. And that’s especially significant if you, like me, have a past of brokenness,” Soule writes in her inspirational story, Broken and Beautiful. “So much of how we see ourselves revolves around the demands our society places on us, insisting we live up to its expectations. Don’t listen to the world. Listen to God.”
Soule’s life was a jumbled pile of broken pieces. Her father was married seven times; her mother four times. Between her parents’ divorce when she was 5 years old and the day she allowed the power and presence of God into her heart, she watched her sister have an affair with her adoptive father; met 15 siblings she never knew at her biological father’s funeral; turned to drugs and alcohol; got pregnant at 17; had twins less than two years later; and became a victim of human trafficking. She had to break the cycle for the sake of her children. With nowhere else to turn, she dropped to her knees and prayed. And that’s when everything changed.
Broken and Beautiful is Soule’s remarkable story of how God took the pieces of her broken, astonishingly dysfunctional life and transformed it all into a breathtaking mosaic of joy and purpose.
“The places where you feel hopeless are exactly what He wants to redeem and fill with beauty, dignity and strength. He has a plan for your pain. A wonderful intention for your failures. A purpose for your hardest, darkest stories,” Soule writes.
Told with honesty and surprising touches of humor, Soule shares her journey from drug-
addicted stripper to exuberant Jesus lover with a passion for helping others embrace God’s love. Broken and Beautiful is a raw, authentic story of hope, from a place of experience.
Author Christine Soule lives with the love of her life, Mitch Soule, in Seattle. They have five kids and three wonderful grandchildren. She is the founder and CEO of Providence Heights (www.providenceheights.org), a nonprofit created to house women and children in need and to provide counseling, education and jobs.
California company launches first-of-its-kind all-natural supplement drink mix to make it easy to guard against dietary deficiencies.
LOS ANGELES, CA – (May 4, 2021)– Vie 4 Health, LLC, announces the launch of Vie, a vitamin and energy drink mix formulated in conjunction with top dieticians and vitamin formulators for those on a plant-based diet and anyone reducing their meat and dairy intake. Mixed in 16 ounces of water, the all-natural, 100% plant-based fizzy drink delivers 24 vitamins, minerals, and amino acids as well as guarana and green-tea caffeine for a natural energy boost.
As stated in this recent article in Forbes, we as a global community have become far more conscious about our health as a result of the COVID pandemic. Vie vitamin and energy mixes were made specifically for health conscious people who want to safeguard their nutritional intake yet avoid the additional unwanted ingredients contained in a traditional non-vegan multivitamin and energy drink.
THE BENEFITS OF VIE-DRATION
Unlike traditional vitamins, Vie plant-based vitamin drink mix:
Is 100% plant-based, with a formula that includes extra B-12, Omega-3s, amino acids, magnesium, zinc, and more
Is absorbed into our bodies faster than pills or gummies (and don’t we all need to drink more water!)
Is made with natural ingredients that you can actually see—flaxseed, pumpkin seed and grape seed
Gives athletes, busy parents and weekend warriors sustained energy for their on-the-go lifestyle without sugars and artificial colors
Provides the necessary nutrients to strengthen immunity, reduce brain fog and improve mood
Some of the most influential medical institutions in the world have addressed the need for those on a plant-based diet to focus on certain nutrients. In a recent article, the Mayo Clinic stated, “The more restrictive your diet is, the more challenging it can be to get all the nutrients you need.” Also, speaking specifically about Vitamin B-12 deficiency, Colleen De Bellefonds in Women’s Health magazine writes, “Not getting enough (Vitamin B-12) can put you at risk for a specific type of anemia that can eventually lead to nervous system damage.”
“Experts state eating a plant-based diet is better for your health, the environment and of course is more humane, but getting the nutrients you need can be a challenge,” states Vie 4 Health Founder and CEO Greg Newman, “and that is particularly true with people who are returning to their busy, post-COVID lives by going to the gym, traveling, commuting and shuttling their kids to school and sports.”
ABOUT THE PRODUCT LINE
100% plant-based and cruelty-free
Packaged in single use, portable, recyclable stick packs
Founded in 2020 Vie 4 Health sells 100% plant-based, sugar free, non-GMO and gluten-free vitamin and energy drink mixes in single-use, portable stick packs. The mixes have been specially formulated to provide a mix of 24 vitamins, minerals and nutrients to supplement a plant-based or reducetarian diet and designed for consumers’ busy, on-the-go lifestyle. Vie 4 Health Founder and CEO Gregory Newman is the former CEO of Veestro, the nationwide plant-based meal delivery service. Vie4Health.com @Vie4Health
Boom Health launches mobile app to simplify home care for loved ones
TORONTO, May 4, 2021 /CNW/ - Boom Health, Inc. ("Boom Health") launches a one-stop app allowing users to organize and book in-home care services, medical equipment and meal services with market leading providers with the same ease as ordering a rideshare or delivery on your phone.
Launching today in the Apple app store for iPhones and the Google Play store for Android phones, the app allows users to book personal support workers and nursing care, transportation services, medical equipment rentals and purchases, and healthy, freshly prepared meals with industry leading suppliers vetted by Boom Health. The app was designed for individual users and family members needing to organize home care on behalf of loved ones. The app is extremely easy to use, comprehensive and allows families to communicate on its chat platform with an additional option to split payments so each member can pay a portion of the cost of equipment or other services for their loved ones.
"Giving people time back to spend time with a loved one is what this is all about," says Lisa Assaf, founder of Boom Health. In early 2015, Lisa, a former family law lawyer, was facing a life-altering challenge that many Canadians are all too familiar with - organizing home care for a loved one. Her father, living alone in his late seventies, was diagnosed with cancer. So began a journey experienced by many; navigating a labyrinth of appointments, bookings, and making choices about services to support an aging or unwell family member. By the time the journey was completed, sadly with the death of her father, Lisa had a deep appreciation for how difficult this was for Canadians, especially those with jobs, children, and other responsibilities. "I remember the day of my father's discharge, being handed a large stack of paper with all kinds of instructions, and realizing it was up to my sister and me to organize a system of care personalized to him. Balancing the demands of family life, employment, and caring for a loved one can be challenging, especially when services are not readily available without playing an extended game of telephone tag! I remember feeling overwhelmed and alone. My vision for the Boom Health app is that it gives back precious time and is a helpful companion as families work together to care for an aging parent or loved one. The COVID 19 Pandemic has brought this need further into focus and it is my hope that the app will allow people to age at home longer, with the best supports in place."
- Lisa Assaf, founder, Boom Health.
Eager to create a digital solution to help simplify caregiving for Canadians, Lisa spent the last couple of years working with a patient and family advisory group at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, one of Canada's leading hospitals, and Ryerson DMZ, the top university-based tech incubator in the world.
"It was a blessing to know Lisa's father, and to see the good intent behind her care for him, which we see in so many patients. It's remarkable here that this care has translated into something innovative to help so many, easing the responsibility of preparing to care for someone at home. Boom is a platform that provides what families need and will help hospitals with discharge planning as well. Sunnybrook is proud to have been a part of this effort."
- Dr. Calvin Law, Chief, Odette Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
"The DMZ is thrilled for Boom, launching their app is an exciting and pivotal milestone for them as a company. Providing quality and seamless care to our loved ones is of the utmost importance, especially during COVID-19, and I believe Boom is revolutionizing the future of caregiving through tech."
- Abdullah Snobar, Executive Director, DMZ & CEO, DMZ Ventures
About Boom Health:
Boom Health is a company focused on providing digital solutions to manage today's complex world of personal at-home health care. The app is currently available in Toronto and will be expanding to other cities this year. Non-Toronto residents can sign up for updates at https://boom.health.
About The DMZ:
The DMZ helps companies grow their business. That means when founders want high-impact and a highly-customized tech incubator program, they come to the DMZ. Ranked as the top university-based tech incubator in the world, the DMZ provides a launchpad for founders to build and scale fast. Bigger and bolder than any other program of its kind, the DMZ has been creating the next gen of game-changing, global businesses since 2010. Learn more at www.ryerson.ca/dmz.
SOURCE BOOM health
Endorsed by MDs at Harvard: Transformative Food Documentary Debuts May 25
Seattle, WA, May 4, 2021 — As we all start coming out of quarantine—a time when we dismissed those doctor appointments or ate more comfort food than we had hoped—is there a better way to live without the risk of diabetes and obesity through better ways to eat? From New York Times best-selling author and executive producer Jonathan Bailor comes BETTER, a transformative food documentary that examines a new, empowering and unifying way of eating, thinking and living—without the shame caused by friends, family and the wellness industry itself. Releasing on May 25, 2021 (new date!), with pre-orders available on May 1, the film has been endorsed by top medical doctors at Harvard. In addition, BETTER has won Best Documentary and Best Storytelling awards and has been featured in programs at film festivals worldwide.
BETTER offers a proven path toward safer, better living through revolutionary methods that lower the body’s weight "setpoint,” using simple, evidence-based solutions that anyone can use to optimize their diet (e.g., keto, vegan, paleo, kosher, halal, etc.) and to protect against today's most common diseases. The movie’s goal is to put an end to all the diet wars, unveiling scientifically backed new ways of eating endorsed by doctors at Harvard, as well as Johns Hopkins and Mayo Clinic; and ending all the confusing and conflicting diet information while curbing diabetes and obesity (diabesity). It also features inspiring success stories along with intimate testimonials by Americans who have struggled with negative body image, vulnerability, feelings of inadequacy and humiliation that bring the movie to life in all too relatable ways.
BETTER tries to tackle these challenges by following the doctors leading this revolution and features intimate portraits of people as they explore ways to decrease the dependence on medications and shame-based diets, while staying safe in an increasingly unhealthy world. BETTER was filmed on-location at Harvard Medical School with Dr. David Ludwig, author of The New York Times best-seller Always Hungry; and with EP and creator Jonathan Bailor, who founded the field of wellness engineering, and is the author of the New York Times best-seller, The Calorie Myth, and The Setpoint Diet. Bailor was inspired to help Americans overcome their overeating addiction after his own grandfather died of diabetes. On a quest to help find a better way for Americans to eat, think and live, it is Bailor’s hope that the audience will be inspired to reverse their symptoms of diabesity, which is proven to be a top risk factor for many complications, including COVID complications and death.
Says Bailor, “Now more than ever, everyone is in desperate need of a proven, practical and simple way to protect their mental and physical health. BETTER is not just a food documentary, it is a story of hope, empowerment, protection and betterment by every means necessary.” For more information, please visit www.bettermovie.com.
