Meet the ISSA 2, FOREO’s New Generation of Revolutionary Toothbrushes
Merging Exceptional Dental Hygiene with Impeccable Style
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN, 12 March 2018; The world’s biggest beauty tech brand,
FOREO, has just launched the toothbrush of the future - the
ISSA 2, a sonic electric toothbrush that combines state-of-the-art technology with unparalleled durability: a
one-hour charge lasts up to an incredible 365 uses. Setting a new global standard for advanced oral care, the revolutionary, new generation toothbrush has become a firm favorite of the who’s who of lifestyle bloggers and it doesn’t stop there - the award-winning ISSA’s influence even extends to outer space, and in 2017 it made a cameo appearance in Episode 5 of
Star Trek: Discovery.
An ultra-hygienic alternative to both manual brushing and conventional nylon-bristled electric toothbrushes, ISSA 2 differs from traditional models by way of its material; medical-grade silicone. In addition to the standard version with the hybrid brush head made of nylon and silicone combination , ISSA 2 is also available in an exclusive
“Sensitive” Set which includes one hybrid brush head and one brush head made completely out of silicone for those with specially sensitive gums.
Providing a comfortable and secure grip on the brush’s ergonomic handle, the material presents several key advantages:
- Soft, flexible brush head reaches all corners of the mouth
- Quick-drying, non-porous and 100% waterproof
- Resists the buildup of bacteria for up to 10,000x less bacteria than nylon-bristled toothbrushes
- Soft silicone bristles are gentle on gums and won’t scratch tooth enamel
Designed to be used like a manual toothbrush, the ISSA 2 does not oscillate like conventional electric models. Instead it incorporates T-Sonic technology to pulsate at a frequency of 11,000 pulsations per minute for micro-sweeps that effectively, yet gently, clean teeth and massage gums. A superior brushing experience for a whiter, brighter smile, ISSA 2 removes plaque for total oral care and is particularly suited to those with sensitive gums, or for whom erosion of tooth enamel is a concern.
Like all FOREO devices, ISSA 2 comes with integrated and smart Swedish design. Its features include:
- 16 variable speeds, as well as a built-in timer to prevent over-brushing.
- Rechargeable via USB, lasts up to 365 uses.
- Ideal for traveling: travel lock feature and no bulky charging dock to transport.
- Savvy oral health investment: ISSA 2’s hybrid brush head lasts for 6 months before needing to be replaced, while the sensitive 100% silicone one lasts for the whole year
- Two-year limited warranty and a 10-year quality guarantee.
Stylish and chic, ISSA 2 by FOREO also looks the part, and is available in four striking colors to brighten up any bathroom surface, with the Sensitive set coming in two vibrant colors.
FOREO CEO Paul Peros said; “With the ISSA 2, we sought to offer a brand new way of cleaning teeth that feels completely unique compared to anything else out there. From its state-of-the-art material to its revolutionary design, ISSA 2 remains a truly watershed product in a market that had seen little in the way of innovation for far too long. Star Trek got it right - the ISSA 2 is very much the toothbrush of the future.”
ISSA 2 is just one of FOREO’s expanding and innovative range of skincare and dental devices. Established in 2013, the Swedish brand enjoys global success and has won more than 85 design and beauty awards internationally. The ISSA 2 and the ISSA 2 Sensitive Set is available now at
www.foreo.com for $169-$189.
New Book Reveals How To Eat As Much As You Want & Never Gain Weight - Interviews Available With Author
What if you could eat as much as you wanted, all day every day, and never gain weight? No gimmicks, nothing unsafe. And what if it was among the easiest things you've ever done? Maureen Anderson's book "The Willpower Workaround," readers will learn a new mindset to eating and living well.
Maureen Anderson Says:
One of the boldest moves I ever made was challenging the assumption that food should be a reward for anything. It's like a career consultant friend once told me: you need vacations the same way you need to breathe out after breathing in. Breathing out isn't a reward for breathing in. It's just part of the deal. When you make food a "reward" instead of a normal part of taking care of yourself, there's a tendency to dress it up, to make it "entertainment" (as Dilbert creator Scott Adams says).
We learn in the book that your initial success with permanent weight loss was based on winning a challenge. Do you have any advice for men and women who need a reward to stay on the path toward changing the way they eat?
One key to your success was focusing on how bad certain foods made you feel physically, like the hamburger headaches. Did you also focus on how bad you were going to feel about yourself when you indulged in junk food?
About Maureen Anderson
Maureen Anderson is the host of the nationally-syndicated radio talk show, Doing What Works, that helps you fix what you don't like about your life. She is also the author of The Career Clinic: Eight Simple Rules for Finding Work You Love (AMACOM, 2009). She is the co-author, with Dick Beardsley, of Staying the Course: A Runner's Toughest Race (University of Minnesota Press, 2002). And she won a 2006 Minnesota Book Award for Left for Dead: A Second Life after Vietnam, with Jon Hovde (Minnesota, 2005).
You can follow her on Twitter @DoingWhatWorks.
Why Are We Ignoring The Role Of The Food Industry In Healthcare Reform? Doctor Available For Interviews
- Over the past two decades we have gotten fatter and sicker, but there has been another change. Our food by enlarge is no longer produced by the small farmer. Corporate farming has taken over our food supply. The farms have gotten larger and techniques to increase the amount of food while making it cheaper and produced more quickly have been the goal of the food industry.
- The argument can be made that the changes in the way our food is produced has had a direct correlation with the rise in obesity, diabetes, heart disease and the ever increasing cancer rate. In addition, it can also be argued that government policies have empowered the food industry to adopt policies that are making us sick.
The government subsidy of corn has made it cheaper.
Clinically, high fructose corn syrup causes a sharp rise in insulin when it is consumed. This leads to insulin resistance which is one of the earliest triggers for diabetes. It is also addictive, the more you have the more you want leading to an increase in caloric intake and weight gain in those who don't exercise enough. Simply put - this is a vicious cycle.
Techniques to bring animals to market earlier have consequences. Cows have been fed corn instead of grass.
This diet change has had the effect of increasing the fat content in the meat leading to higher cholesterol levels with resultant heart disease. Efforts to increase the growth rate of chickens by pumping them full of growth hormones has increased their estrogen content and arguably may be increasing the early puberty in girls and feminization of boys and men.
Living conditions of animals increase the bacterial content in the food supply.
The rise in Salmonella and E. coli contamination of the food supply with recurrent outbreaks affecting the public are a direct result of the living conditions of the cows and chickens forced to stand in their own excrement before they are slaughtered.
Increasing antibiotic resistance due to farming techniques promoted by corporate farming industry
The use of antibiotics to control infections such as mastitis (an infection of the udder) in cows caused by growth hormone (bovine somatotropin) used to increase their milk production and the use of antibiotics such as streptomycin and tetracycline to decrease the prevalence of E. Coli infections is believed to have a correlation with the increasing antibiotic resistance in human infections. There have been studies that show a link between eating poorly cooked meat with resistant bacterial infections.
If we really want to get serious about decreasing the cost of healthcare, we need to have a conversation about the root cause. There is something intrinsically wrong about government policies that make it cheaper for us to buy junk food than it is to buy fresh fruit and vegetables. We will only be able to limit our costs by promoting prevention and wellness. Neither can exist until something is done about an industry that is given free reign to pursue profit over our health.
About Dr. Elaina George
Atlanta, GA Based - Dr Elaina George (
http://drelainageorge.com/) is a Board Certified Otolaryngologist. She graduated from Princeton University with a degree in Biology. She received her Masters degree in Medical Microbiology from Long Island University, and received her medical degree from Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. Dr George completed her residency at Manhattan, Eye Ear & Throat Hospital. She is on the advisory council of Project 21 black leadership network, an initiative of The National Center for Public Policy Research. Dr George hosts her own radio show, "Medicine On Call" and she is also a keynote speaker many organizations.
How to Combine Yoga and Weight Lifting for a Unique Workout Regimen
There are many different reasons why athletes and health enthusiasts from around the world have added yoga to their workout routines. In addition to improving your strength and flexibility, yoga can also have a positive impact on your mental and emotional health. These few tips will help you incorporate yoga into your workout regimen so that you can enjoy the countless benefits of this ancient practice.
Set Realistic Goals
Those who want to get the most out of their training regimen need to set goals that are both challenging and realistic. Before adopting any type of training into your exercise program, you should spend some time thinking about what you would like to accomplish in the coming weeks and months. Your goals might include improved flexibility for your favorite sport or better core strength so that you can beat your personal weight training records. Writing your goals down will improve your chances of success and give you motivation when you need it the most.
Create a Long-Term Routine
Choosing which workout you are going to do just before you start training isn’t a very efficient system. After creating a long-term routine, it won’t be as easy to skip a workout when you are feeling tired or unmotivated. An effective workout regimen will stagger various exercise in order to give your muscles enough time to recover. Most experts agree that you also need to schedule one full day of rest every seven to 10 days. On your day of rest, you should nothing more than light stretching or a relaxing walk.
Get Help from the Pros
Even though yoga is considered to be low-impact, you still need to learn specific poses and combinations of movements. Taking a yoga class at a local gym or fitness center is a great way to learn the basics of yoga in a safe and comfortable environment. As you master the basics, your teacher will be able to show you advanced movements to solidify your core, strengthen your stabilizer muscles, and improve your flexibility.
Don’t Ignore Your Nutrition
Your caloric needs will continue to change as you try out new exercises and get closer to your fitness goals. If you don’t have the option of hiring a licensed dietitian, then you might want to speak with a trainer about your dietary needs. Sticking to the right combination of fats, protein, and carbohydrates will boost your energy levels and give you enough strength to make it through all of your workouts.
Changing up your exercise routine can be challenging, but the only way to get results is to constantly push your limits. In addition to yoga and weight training, you might also want to consider adding a few cardiovascular workouts such as hiking, swimming, or riding a bicycle.
Denver, Colo. (January 31, 2018) – A group of seasoned wellness industry executives have joined forces to create the Wellness Tourism Association (WTA). Registered in the State of Colorado as a not-for-profit, privately-held organization, the WTA has been established and designed to serve this booming travel sector.
“Our mission is clear and concise,” says Co-Founder and Chairman Andrew Gibson, VP Wellbeing, Accor Hotels, “We plan to support and further the growth and development of the wellness tourism industry through networking, education, communication and marketing.”
The new association will be a network of and for qualifying members of the wellness tourism industry. Its objectives will help to define the industry, as well as educate consumers to recognize legitimate and credible wellness suppliers and operators.
Co-Founding member Tom Klein, President & COO of Canyon Ranch stated, “The WTA will fill a gap in this global industry by providing a credible and unified voice.” Klein added, “As with all associations, the goals and objectives will be determined by the members.”
According to the Global Wellness Institute’s 2017 Global Wellness Economy Monitor, the Wellness Tourism segment is a $563 billion industry -- growing faster than the tourism industry itself. “It makes perfect sense to have our own association,” says Co-Founder and President, Anne Dimon, Founder/CEO of TravelToWellness.com “Especially since there is some confusion with consumers and travel agents as to what constitutes legitimate ‘wellness travel.”
Nilendu Srivastava, Managing Director of The Art of Living Retreat Center, a year-round wellness retreat facility in Boone, North Carolina is another Founding Member.
The association’s first tourism office member - the Monaco Government Tourist Office - will be represented by Cindy Hoddeson, Monaco’s Director, North America. The wellness history of this city-state dates back to 1860 and the Etablissement des Bains, Monaco’s first baths where people traveled to benefit from the curative powers of the Mediterranean.
Madeleine Marentette, owner of Grail Springs -- recent recipient of Canada's Best Wellness Retreat 2017 -- will also sit on the first Board of Directors - - as will Jim Forberg, Founding Partner and COO of Unicomm LLC, producers of the long-running Travel & Adventure Show and introducing a wellness element to their shows in 2018.
Wellness Tourism is not a new industry, as people have traveled both nationally and internationally with health or wellness the primary focus since the time of the Roman Baths. Today, the commitment to ‘health as your wealth’ transcends borders, cultures and ages, with many new companies flocking to the sector.
Membership will be open to qualifying destination marketing organizations, hotels and resorts, destination spas, tour operators, travel advisors, wellness educators and others with an interest in supporting the industry and helping shape its future and sustainability. Dimon adds that, “while ‘wellness’ is often thought to be a luxury category of travel, we also want to ensure we represent a diverse range of members across consumer segment."
For more information, please visit http://www.wellnesstourismassociation.org and for interview opportunities and additional details, email the WTA at admin@wellnesstourismassociation.org
Get Fit! How to Drastically Enhance Your Athletic Performance
All athletes want to live their dreams and compete professionally as long as they can. You have the skills, and you have impressed enough people. You know you have a fighting chance, but the numbers can be pretty harsh. The chance of making a living out of what you love is pretty slim, meaning you really have to do your best to make it. You have to push the limits at all times, and continue to drastically enhance your athletic performance. The following are some tips to help you do just that.
Enhance Your Brain
You might not think your mind has much to do with your athletic performance, but it does. Your brain is one of the most important parts of your body, and making sure that it is running optimally should help enhance your performance. This is why you need to stimulate your mind using cognitive training among other tools. One thing you can do is solve a complex puzzle in your free time. Playing strategy games can keep your mind nimble. A sharper mind makes it easier for your brain to make quick but effective decisions, which is vital for any athlete.
Eat Right
The body can only use what it is given, so making sure you are giving it the very best is crucial. This means sticking to safe, healthy, and organic food. Beyond that, it is also important to seek out foods that are known to help improve athletic performance, such as probiotics. These organisms can be found in fermented foods and drinks, such as yogurt or kombucha. They help the body digest food and absorb more nutrients than it would otherwise, which makes them quite important.
Get a Cellular Boost
Okay, you have taken care of your diet and are doing what you can to enhance your brain’s ability to think, but you can also address your cells. Companies dedicated to athletic performance like ASEA sell products that have the ability to optimize cells within the body. This helps cells perform at their very best. You will likely produce more energy and be the very best version of yourself by simply making sure your cells are in tip-top shape. You should talk to a health professional to find out other ways to boost cellular function.
Lifestyle Revolution
You are young and may be drawn to things that could be hurting your athletic performance. For example, many people stay up late and end up losing sleep. You cannot afford this as an athlete because your body needs sleep to repair itself after training or a harsh game. You also have to find ways to balance your emotional and mental health. Both of these are vital because they directly correlate with your spirit. Every athlete knows that the spirit gives you that last burst of energy or power when you need it the most. Consider joining a meditation class to help you stay grounded and peaceful, or practice yoga to find ways to keep your mind and emotional health in good condition.
Canadian patients to benefit from major investment in genomics and precision health research
Government of Canada and partners invest $255 million in genomics research bringing new hope for Canadians living with cancer, cystic fibrosis, juvenile arthritis, childhood asthma and other diseases.
TORONTO, Jan. 23, 2018 /CNW/ - Precision health promises to transform the way Canadians receive medical care. In the near future, doctors may be able to precisely diagnose symptoms based on a patient's unique genetic makeup and offer them tailor-made treatments that can save the patient's life.
To help make that possibility a reality, the Government of Canada announced two new major investments in genomics research totalling $255 million from federal and provincial governments, as well as research institutions and private sector partners.
The federal Minister of Science, the Honourable Kirsty Duncan, made the announcements at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) in Toronto, where she highlighted a $162 million investment through Genome Canada, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and co-funding partners, in 15 genomics and precision health projects across Canada.
The projects funded at SickKids will provide targeted treatments for children with brain cancer and will transform treatment for children living with arthritis. The funding also supports a targeted initiative to address health challenges facing Indigenous populations, improving diagnostic outcomes for Indigenous children that have genetic diseases.
Minister Duncan also announced a second major investment to support advanced genomics technology platforms across the country. These technology platforms support the development of improved technologies that underpin research advances in health, agriculture and natural resources. A total of $93 million is being invested in 10 platforms nationwide, with $45 million in federal funding through Genome Canada and an additional $48 million from other sources.
The combined totals of these two investments will provide researchers with access to cutting-edge tools, technologies and services while furthering the Government of Canada's goal to strengthen and support the country's scientific community.
Quotes
"It is an honour to support some of Canada's leading genomics and precision health researchers through investments that will allow them to further their discoveries and innovations. Their incredible work brings hope to Canadians living with chronic illnesses, such as cancer, cystic fibrosis and arthritis, while strengthening Canada's health-care system."
– Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science
"All Canadians stand to benefit from the innovative and collaborative research projects being announced today. The platforms, tools, technologies and services that will be developed through this funding will improve our understanding of many illnesses, particularly those that affect the most vulnerable patients, including children and Indigenous peoples."
– Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Health
"What's exciting about these genomics and precision health projects is how clinically-oriented they are. Most are led by clinical scientists who deal with patients on a day-to-day basis and are well positioned to apply the research to health-care settings. Further, they are not just about developing new therapies to treat diseases, but about early diagnosis and intervention to better curb or manage diseases at their onset."
– Mr. Marc LePage, President and CEO, Genome Canada
"Our understanding of the human genome and epigenetics is advancing at an unprecedented pace. As a result, today we are creating knowledge that will improve health and health care delivery in ways that were unimaginable only years ago. CIHR is proud to partner with Genome Canada on this important initiative, and to support the outstanding scientists who are at the forefront of this rapidly growing field of research."
– Dr. Roderick R. McInnes, Acting President, Canadian Institutes of Health Research
Quick facts
Associated links
Backgrounder – precision health projects
Backgrounder – genomics technology platforms
This event will be livestreamed on Genome Canada's Facebook page. Also follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube @GenomeCanada
Follow Minister Duncan on social media.
Twitter: @ScienceMin
Instagram: sciencemin
SOURCE Genome Canada
BEST HAIR TIPS FOR GIRLS WITH NATURAL CURLS
International Stylist and Curl Master Creator of The Doux
Gets Real About Real Hair
People with wavy or curly hair are always looking for new products, tips and tricks to lock in their desired look. Whether they want to blow it straight, create looser curls or maximize their tighter coils, Maya Smith, Celebrity Hair Stylist, salon owner and creator of The Doux, the “Indie” haircare line with cult following available at Target is truly the master. Here she shares her best tips for girls with curls who want to revel in their natural hair and create a style they love.
Understand the battle between oil and moisture.
The first thing people must understand is that there are opposite things going on at the same time. “Due to the shape of curly haired strands, the hair tends to be under moisturized. On the other hand, the curly haired scalp can get very oily. Managing these opposite demands is the struggle of girls who wish to keep their curls. The key here is knowing how best to address both,” explains Maya who led the movement for women to transition from relaxers to natural curls.
Be gentle when washing curly hair.
According to Maya, kinky, thick, coiled textures tend to appear “tough” and strong enough to withstand heavy manipulation. “In my experience, these hair types are actually the most delicate, and should be handled with care, she recommends.”
Step One: Pick your products wisely.
Maya applied over 2 decades of research and development based on working knowledge of hair texture and listening to what people wanted. “I created The Doux™ SUCKA FREE Moisturizing Shampoo and FRESH RINSE Moisturizing Conditioner as the one-two step that delivers both deep cleaning plus exceptional nourishment necessary for styling.” It’s now available in Target stores and the full product line is available online at www.thedoux.com.
Step Two: Prep for shampoo.
Maya’s professional instructions for curl mastery begins with rinsing hair thoroughly with water for a minimum of 30 seconds. “This helps to eliminate any water-soluble product buildup, such as hair gel or heat protectant. It also helps you save shampoo! Assuming you’re shampooing in the shower, letting the water run over the hair in a downward motion helps prevent further tangling, and allows the hair shaft to swell and the curl pattern to fully rebound.” For those with extremely thick hair, Maya suggests separating hair into 4 sections prior to wetting the hair for increased manageability.
Once the shampoo is applied, Maya recommends light manipulation at the scalp, going from the crown of the head to the nape of the neck. “Squishing” the hair up toward the scalp is a no-no. “Shampooing this way can cause unforgivable tangling and matting. I recommend repeating the shampooing process at least once.”
Step Three: Condition and comb through like a pro.
If your scalp was properly shampooed, conditioning is easy. “This time, you’re focusing on your thirsty ends first, working upward toward the scalp. Gently detangle with a wide-toothed comb or detangling brush (our favorite is Felicia Leatherwood’s “Brush with the Best” detangling brush) before rinsing, starting at the ends, working up toward to the roots. Remember to rinse with cool water which snaps cuticles shut, locks in moisture, makes your hair shinier and reduces frizz.”
When it comes to “co-washing” or “conditioner washing” Maya equates the popular trend to washing your clothes with fabric softener. “In my experience, co-washing causes build-up on the hair, coating the cuticle and impairing the hair’s natural ability to absorb water. Oils, waxes, and product residue harden on the hair shaft, making it more brittle and less porous over time. When the hair can no longer effectively absorb water, the elasticity of the hair is compromised, leaving the hair “crunchy” and stiff, where it is more likely to break. The result is hair that feels dry and brittle, no matter what product you use to moisturize it,” explains Maya.
One of the things Maya Smith and her team of stylists are known for is their ability to restore hundreds of their clients’ curls, simply by getting them to trade in the co-wash for a gentle, pH-balanced moisturizing shampoo, like The Doux’s SUCKA FREE which properly cleanses hair of product residue. “Once you have the hair thoroughly clean it “drinks” up the necessary amount of moisture, and returns to its natural softness,” Maya clarifies.
Avoid alcohol and kick the crunch to the curb.
Styling products high in alcohol give curls a crunchy feel. They suck up every last bit of moisture. Hair spray tends to contain the most alcohol, while gels, mousses and anything that provides hold or lift come in second. “I recommend water-soluble gels that don't feel sticky on your skin, and aerated mousses or foams that resemble beaten egg whites, to give hair fullness, control, and non-brittle curls,” Maya says.
She adds that she created The Doux so it can be used on hair that is worn curly or straight. “Our clients purchase one set of products, and apply them differently to achieve the style they want. If you’re rocking curly hair today, you’re using The Doux’s Mousse Def and Bonita Afro Balm for softness and definition, and The Light for shine. If you’re wearing a blowout, you’re still using the same products, but applying them less liberally, and using the shine mist as a heat protectant. It’s super simple and easy to follow once you’ve seen the results each of them deliver,” Maya explains.
Blow-Dry with a diffuser or hooded dryer.
Maya’s first choice for curly styles is to air dry. “If you don’t have the time to air dry then dry with a diffuser or hooded dryer on a low heat setting. A regular blow dryer nozzle disrupts the curl pattern and focuses hot air on one small section at a time while a diffuser, dries curls evenly for a full, uniform look,” she explains.
Maya recommends always applying a heat-protecting product, then flipping your head upside down using a diffuser at the roots and mid-length making sure to dry the area completely to lock in volume. “It’s important to leave the ends for last, and leave them only semi-dry. Air drying the ends is your best option.”
Care for the curls you were born with!
About Maya Smith:
Maya Smith is an International Master Stylist and Founder of The Doux Salon and haircare line now available in Target. With over two decades of styling experience Maya dedicated two decades to cracking the code on curl care, maintenance and expert styling. When it comes to caring for one’s natural hair and styling it, Maya is the best there is.
While still in high school, Maya got her hair cutting license and graduated from beauty school. Soon after graduating high school, Maya began following her passion and worked as an assistant for celebrity stylist Tracy Johnson. She learned from Johnson and progressed as a hair stylist for celebrities and entertainers. Years later the military wife would relocate to Germany, where Maya opened up her first salon The HoneyComb, a mecca for textured hair care for women from all over Europe, The UK, and as far as Africa. Maya's unique system of textured hair styling sparked the development of The DOUX® haircare products, first launched overseas, and distributed throughout Germany, France, Italy, and the Netherlands.
Currently, Maya leads a carefully selected team of stylists at The DOUX® Salon in Macon, Georgia and on Christmas Eve 2017, celebrated the arrival of The DOUX® in Target stores nationwide. Maya Smith, wife, mom of 5 and savvy business woman is an example not just for women of color but for all women who believe their gifts can impact the world, striving for entrepreneurial endeavors with grace, ease and hustle.
GRATITUDE IN MOTION: An Amazing True Story of Hope, Determination, AND the Everyday Heroes Around Us
Colleen Kelly Alexander, with Jenna Glatzer
“Colleen is a personal inspiration of mine. Her guts, grit and determination alone are enough to embolden anyone who hears her speak. But it is Colleen's great humanity and humility in the face of her challenges that should inspire us all.” —Jody Williams, Nobel Peace Prize laureate
"I always said running is the ultimate faith healer, restoring belief not only in oneself but life's possibilities. Colleen brought that message to life and had me thinking of my own possibilities. Colleen's message isn't about how far we can run but how much we can endure just to be part of the running community."—Bart Yasso, Retired Chief Running Officer of Runner's World
“Colleen Kelly Alexander is a living embodiment of resiliency, grace, and gratitude--even in the face of some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable. Read this remarkable memoir. It will lift up your heart with thankfulness and inspiration, just as Colleen has inspired countless everyday heroes who strive to make this world a better place.” —Gail McGovern, President and CEO, American Red Cros
“GRATITIUDE IN MOTION is a powerful story of the triumph of one determined and inspiring soul. Colleen Kelly Alexander's vision to 'bring about more humanity and understanding' despite monumental obstacles gives hope to us all. Her story is the gift that the world needs so desperately right now.” —Kate Cumbo, PhD, Director of Programs, PeaceJam Foundation
It was a beautiful fall day in Connecticut when Colleen Alexander, a lifelong competitive athlete, rode her bike home from work, having just learned her job with the nonprofit PeaceJam was secure. She had survived a diagnosis of lupus and brain surgery that almost took her life, and was married at last to the love of her life, Sean. Life was good as she met the eyes of a truck driver rolling up to the stop sign beside her. He didn't stop.
The truck hit Colleen, running over her lower body with front and back tires and dragging her across the pavement. As she bled out in the street, nearby strangers surrounded. A former EMT herself, Colleen knew she had to stay awake. "I've just been reconnected with my soulmate," she told the medic. "We want to have a baby. I can't die now. Please don't let me die." Colleen spent five weeks in a coma and had 29 surgeries. But she survived, and despite losing her job and suffering from PTSD, she began to focus on all the heroes who saved her life. Determined to find a way to make something positive from her pain, she decided she'd run again. She would dedicate her race medals to her heroes, including the multitude of medical staff that aided in her survival.
Since the trauma, Colleen has run 50 races and completed 40 triathlons, including 4 half-Ironman events (1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride, 13.1-mile run). She is now a spokesperson for the Red Cross, and shares her incredible inspirational story to encourage others to take that first step forward.
Colleen Kelly Alexander is a lifelong athlete and motivational speaker. With her indomitable spirit and amazing story of survival, Colleen teaches others how to aim higher, be stronger, and use adversity as a catalyst to make themselves and the world better. She was the executive director of the Common Ground Youth Center in Vermont for eight years, and a regional program manager for PeaceJam, where Nobel Peace Prize laureates mentor youth. She has also worked for, volunteered for, and is heavily involved with the Red Cross. She lives in a New England coastal town with her husband and their three dogs and cat. Find out more at Colleenkellyalexander.com, Facebook/ColleenKellyA or on Twitter @ColleenKellyAl.
Jenna Glatzer (www.jennaglatzer.com) is the author or ghost- writer of twenty-nine books, including Celine Dion’s authorized biography and The Marilyn Monroe Treasures. She and her daughter live in New York.
Important Notes Include:
- PROFESSIONAL SPEAKER: Colleen Alexander was an established public speaker before her trauma, and continues to speak on topics ranging from personal empowerment and mindset to medical issues like dealing with a major trauma and PTSD to athletics.
- Tie-In with Author Speaking Engagements for the Red Cross. Colleen is a spokesperson for the Red Cross and is on the Red Cross Board of Directors in Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts. January is National Blood Donor Month.
- This April, she will be racing the National Women’s Half Marathon in Washington, DC.
Club Med's Live Your List sale offers travellers the chance to conquer their bucket lists
Toronto, ON – Make 2018 the year you fulfill your travel bucket list. Club Med is offering travellers the chance to make their vacation dreams a reality with the Live Your List sale. Starting at just $1,649 per adult for a seven-night air-inclusive escape, this promotion features world-class experiences at resorts in Mexico, Florida and the Caribbean. From a fun-filled family spring break trip, to an activity-packed couple’s adventure, travellers can experience the ultimate getaway by booking their vacation between now and February 27, 2018. Whatever experience you’re looking for, Club Med tops the list.
Join the Circus: Club Med Punta Cana
Located on the lavish beaches of the Dominican Republic, Club Med Punta Cana caters to both couples and families. For those looking for a unique and thrilling adventure like no other, Club Med offers a one-of-a-kind immersive experience in their CREACTIVE by Cirque du Soleil playground. Guests of all ages can enjoy a range of artistic and acrobatic activities from juggling and mask painting, to bungee jumping and double flying trapeze. Those looking for an adults-only experience can relax and unwind in Zen Oasis, offering a private pool, bar and comfortable and romantic accommodations.
Discover New Life Forms: Club Med Columbus Isle
Discover world-class scuba diving experiences on the exotic Bahamian island of Columbus Isle. Known for its white sandy beaches and stunning crystal blue waters, Columbus Isle is the ultimate Caribbean paradise studded with flora, fauna, wrecks and reefs. Club Med’s scuba diving program caters to everyone from beginners to experienced diving enthusiasts, providing top-tier diving equipment, professional instruction and PADI certification.
Time Travel: Club Med Cancun Yucatan
Situated at the tip of the iconic Mayan Riviera, Club Med Cancun Yucatan is the active family's dream getaway with a variety of activities and adventures for all ages. Guests can snorkel in the world's second largest coral reef, explore the ancient Mayan gems including one of the Seven Wonders of the World, or wakeboard through the stunning mangrove lagoon.
Own the Court: Club Med Sandpiper Bay
This Florida resort is a sports lover's haven, home to the world-famous Club Med Academies, including a roster of internationally recognized sports instructors and best-in-class equipment for tennis, volleyball, golf and more. The premier destination for a rejuvenating getaway with a healthy kick, Club Med Sandpiper Bay offers an 18-hole onsite golf course, adults-only infinity Zen pool, and sports oriented treatments and massages at the L'Occitane Spa.
Walk on Water: Club Med Ixtapa Pacific
Known as one of the best family resorts in the world, this all-inclusive resort in Ixtapa, Mexico has all the components necessary for the makings of a perfect family vacation. With an endless amount of land and water sports, state-of-the-art equipment and expert instructors, learning to sail, play tennis or fly the trapeze has never been easier. And with Children’s Clubs from 4 months to 17 years old, parents will relax while the little ones discover new activities under the watchful eye of expert G.O.s. Whether spending the day lounging on the golden sandy beaches or taking up a new hobby, family fun is just around the corner.
Club Med’s Live your List offer is valid for bookings made by February 27, 2018 for travel through August 25, 2018. Rates begin at $1,649 for a seven-night air-inclusive stay and travellers receive additional perks such as free room upgrades or a free single supplement. With a wide selection of land and water activities, relaxing spa treatments, enriching kids clubs, gourmet cuisine and live entertainment, Club Med resorts provide the perfect setting for those must-try experiences on everyone’s list.
About Club Med
Club Med, founded in 1950, is recognized as the pioneer of the all-inclusive market, offering nearly 70 premium resorts in stunning locations around the world including North and South America, Caribbean, Asia, Africa, Europe and the Mediterranean. Club Med operates more than 70 resorts. Established in 26 countries across five continents, the group employs more than 23,000 employees comprised of 110 varied nationalities. Club Med has had a corporate presence in Canada for over 40 years and employs a staff of more than 50 team members in their Montreal head office.
Website: ClubMed.ca
Facebook: ClubMedCanada
