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

According to Dr. Charles (Chuck) Basch, author of Healthier Students Are Better Learners, health issues, which disproportionately plague low-income urban minority youth, play a major role in limiting students motivation and ability to learn.

It is estimated that 800 million people are spending at least 10 percent of their household budget on out-of-pocket health care expenses, and nearly 100 million people are being pushed into extreme poverty each year due to health care costs. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 aims to achieve Universal Healthcare for all people by 2030.

According to Kara Hanson, Professor of Health System Economics at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, there are two main challenges for healthcare in low and middle-income countries. The first challenge is the “growing burden of non-communicable diseases.” Hansen says that “more than half of the disease burden in lower-middle income countries is due to non-communicable diseases, and even in the lowest income countries, non-communicable diseases are responsible for one-third of the disease burden.”

The Millennial Bloggers can be found all around the world. They are innovators and are dedicated to education; their merit can be seen throughout their efforts to educate and lead.

“There are so many challenges confronting humanity that we need to be deploying capital differently,” says Bonnie Chiu who argues that “impact investing is the key to funding universal access to healthcare.” A Columbia University study found that in 2008, the average doctor in the US earned $186,582, while in Canada, a country with higher healthcare satisfaction, the average doctor earns $125,000. “Broadening taxation and reducing spending would be ideal ways to balance the books,” says Jacob Navarette. “A truly modern health system needs to focus on enabling choice within itself,” notes James Kernochan.

The Millennial Bloggers are Alusine Barrie, Sajia Darwish, James Kernochan, Kamna Kathuria, Jacob Deleon Navarrete, Reetta Heiskanen, Shay Wright, Isadora Baum, Wilson Carter III, Francisco Hernandez, Erin Farley, Dominique Alyssa Dryding, Harry Glass, Harmony Siganporia and Bonnie Chiu.

CMRubinWorld launched in 2010 to explore what kind of education would prepare students to succeed in a rapidly changing globalized world. Its award-winning series, The Global Search for Education, is a celebrated trailblazer in the renaissance of the 21st century, and occupies a special place in the pulse of key issues facing every nation and the collective future of all children. It connects today’s top thought leaders with a diverse global audience of parents, students and educators. Its highly readable platform allows for discourse concerning our highest ideals and the sustainable solutions we must engineer to achieve them. C. M. Rubin has produced over 600 interviews and articles discussing an expansive array of topics under a singular vision: when it comes to the future of children, there is always more work to be done.

For more information on CMRubinWorld

Top 5 Romantic Spas for Valentine’s Day Wellness Escapes

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, discover the best spa and wellness experiences to show your ‘special someone’ just how much you care. If you’re looking for a gift that will go straight to the heart, Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holiday specialists unveil the best romantic and radiance-giving getaways to help you rediscover romance and time just for you. From a tranquil healing spa in sun soaked Cyprus, to an unforgettable pampering experience amongst exciting wildlife in South Africa, fill your love bubble with blissful harmony at one of these perfect-for-two holistic spas.

Cyprus: Ayii Anargyri Healing

Combine idyllic settings with indulgent treatments on Ayii Anargyri’s blissful healing spa programme. Love will truly be in the air as you unwind together in the tranquil and inviting environment this spa brings. Re-balance with mineral rich spa treatments, nourished with natural spring water that is also channelled to their three treatment pools. Once you’ve achieved an emotional equilibrium, head to one of their gourmet restaurants for a romantic meal, compiled of refreshing Mediterranean cuisine and an extensive wine collection.

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Ayii Anargyri from £1,250pp. Price includes full board, with a spa programme, return flights and transfers.

Italy: Borgo Egnazia Pamper

Turn Valentine’s Day into a romantic weekend getaway to the holistic heart of Puglia, Italy on Borgo Egnazia’s indulgent pamper spa programme. Spoil your partner with romantic luxury at this candle-lit spa, with a trio of three innovative spa treatments that will leave you both fully revitalised. Experience the soothing effects of the sea with a rejuvenating salt water massage, to relax and purify the mind, body and soul. The expert hands of Borgo Egnazia’s therapists will have you wishing for a weekend wellness getaway every Valentines Day.

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 2 nights at Borgo Egnazia from £1,170pp. Price includes breakfast, with a spa programme, return flights and transfers.

Portugal: Pine Cliffs Awakening of Senses

Dripping with decadence, Pine Cliffs offers a couple’s spa experience that exceeds all expectations. Refresh yourselves with fragrant Ayurvedic treatments and cleansing juices to have you glowing on the inside and out. With spa treatments that envelope you in aromas such as orange blossom and jasmine, this programme is sure to have your head in the clouds for a Valentines experience bursting with romance. This programme leaves no time for boredom; endlessly exciting your senses with activities such as paddle boarding, personal training, yoga and even tea tasting.

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 6 nights at Pine Cliffs from £1,920pp. Price includes full board, with a spa programme, return flights and transfers.

South Africa: Karkloof Safari Spa

The couple that travel together, stay together – right? Well this year, up your Valentines game with a long-haul spa break to Karkloof Safari Spa in South Africa. A one-of-a-kind romantic oasis awaits you, with an added adventurous element of astonishing wildlife surrounding the resort. Relax together at the award-winning spa and indulge in a wide range of exotic spa treatments from uplifting grapefruit facials to black pepper scrubs. After a fruitful cleanse, discover the jewels of the African jungle with a fascinating Safari game drive, for memories that will last a lifetime.

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Karkloof Safari Spa from £4,650pp. Price is all-inclusive, with a spa programme, return flights and transfers.

Sri Lanka: Santani Re-balancing Bliss

For the ultimate in luxury romance, treat yourselves to an unforgettable wellness spa experience along the verdant hills of Sri Lanka. Indulge with soul-lifting treatments for a transformative re-boot and build internal strength with a range of activities to boost fitness levels and enhance physical endurance. Reconnect with each other and reach a new level of consciousness for a truly bespoke wellness experience. Recalibrate from head-to-toe with group yoga, guided hikes and a calming dip in the salt-water pools for the ultimate Valentines experience.

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Santani from £2,540pp. Price includes accommodation, full-board, with a spa programme, return flights and transfers.

For advice, guidance and booking visit www.healthandfitnesstravel.com or call 0203 397 8891

Harnessing the power of machine learning for brain health

SOURCE Saint Elizabeth Health Care

People are nowadays increasingly health conscious. Most of us want to look and feel our best on a consistent basis. As such, you may feel, if you are into video games, that you should swap Call of Duty and Super Mario for the gym, Yoga and Kale smoothies. You may feel that gaming is not healthy, and cannot be part of a healthy person’s regimen. However, this may not be the case.

A lot of research has actually shown that gaming can actually be good for you. Gaming can improved the efficiency of the brain areas responsible for spatial awareness, memory, planning and other cognitive skills. As well as this, it can reduce the feelings of pain in those who have chronic pain, and can lessen feelings of trauma in those who have been involved in traumatic events.

Granted, gaming will not improve your physique, and you cannot regularly replace a gym session with a gaming marathon if you want to stay trim. However, it can be part of your regime, and can actually help you keep your brain healthy, while you take care of your body.

So, gaming can help you wind down after a long week, and may even help to reduce the pain after a particularly tough gym session. If you want to learn more about the benefits of gaming, peruse the infographic below produced by those at Computer Planet.

Mediterranean Diet May Help Protect Older Adults from Becoming Frail

An analysis of published studies indicates that following the Mediterranean diet may reduce the risk of frailty in older individuals. The findings, which are published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, suggest that a diet emphasizing primarily plant-based foods—such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts—may help keep people healthy and independent as they age.

Frailty is common among older people and its prevalence is increasing as the population ages. Frail older adults may often feel low in energy and have weight loss and weak muscle strength. They are more likely to suffer from numerous health concerns, including falls, fractures, hospitalization, nursing home placement, disability, dementia, and premature death. Frailty is also associated with a lower quality of life.

Nutrition is thought to play a crucial role in developing frailty, a team led by Kate Walters, PhD and Gotaro Kojima, MD, of University College London, in the UK, looked to see if following a healthy diet might decrease one’s risk of frailty.

The researchers analyzed evidence from all published studies examining associations between adherence to a Mediterranean diet and development of frailty in older individuals. Their analysis included 5789 people in four studies in France, Spain, Italy, and China.

“We found the evidence was very consistent that older people who follow a Mediterranean diet had a lower risk of becoming frail,” said Dr. Walters. “People who followed a Mediterranean diet the most were overall less than half as likely to become frail over a nearly four-year period compared with those who followed it the least.”

The investigators noted that the Mediterranean diet may help older individuals maintain muscle strength, activity, weight, and energy levels, according to their findings. “Our study supports the growing body of evidence on the potential health benefits of a Mediterranean diet, in our case for potentially helping older people to stay well as they age,” said Dr. Kojima.

Although older people who followed a Mediterranean diet had a lower risk of becoming frail, it’s unclear whether other characteristics of the people who followed this diet may have helped to protect them. “While the studies we included adjusted for many of the major factors that could be associated—for example, their age, gender, social class, smoking, alcohol, how much they exercised, and how many health conditions they had—there may be other factors that were not measured and we could not account for,” said Dr. Walters. “We now need large studies that look at whether increasing how much you follow a Mediterranean diet will reduce your risk of becoming frail.”

Additional information

The information contained in this release is protected by copyright. Members of the media may sign up for embargoed news or to request a copy of any study please contact:

Dawn Peters (US) +1 781-388-8408
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Full Citation: “Adherence of Mediterranean diet reduces incident frailty risk: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” Gotaro Kojima, Christina Avgerinou, Steve Iliffe, and Kate Walters. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society; Published Online: January 11, 2018 (DOI: 10.1111/jgs.15251).

URL Upon Publication: http://doi.wiley.com/10.1111/jgs.15251

Author Contact: Dr. Kate Walters, Department of Primary Care and Population Health, UCL, at k.walters@ucl.ac.uk. Rowan Walker, in UCL’s media office, at rowan.walker@ucl.ac.uk or +44 (0)20 3108 8515.

About the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society (JAGS)

Included in more than 9,000 library collections around the world, JAGS is the go-to journal for clinical aging research. We provide a diverse, interprofessional community of healthcare professionals with the latest insights on geriatrics education, clinical practice, and public policy—all supporting the high-quality, person-centered care essential to our well-being as we age.

Our rigorous peer-review process ensures that we bring healthcare professionals, older adults, and caregivers research with the potential to impact public policy and geriatrics care today—and tomorrow. Since the publication of our first edition in 1953, JAGS has remained one of the oldest and most impactful journals dedicated exclusively to gerontology and geriatrics. For more information, please visit http://wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/jgs.

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Texas A&M research shows biological clocks could improve brain cancer treatment

(COLLEGE STATION, Texas) — Biological clocks throughout the body play a major role in human health and performance, from sleep and energy use to how food is metabolized and even stroke severity. Now, Texas A&M University researchers found that circadian rhythms could hold the key to novel therapies for glioblastoma, the most prevalent type of brain cancer in adults—and one with a grim prognosis.

Scientists in the Texas A&M Center for Biological Clocks Research (CBCR) determined that the timed production of a particular protein, associated with tumor proliferation and growth, is disrupted in glioblastoma cells, and they believe that this may lead to a more effective technique to treat the cancerous cells without damaging the healthy surrounding tissue. These findings, which were supported in part by the National Institutes of Health, published today in the international journal BMC Cancer.

Texas A&M biologist Deborah Bell-Pedersen, PhD, a co-corresponding author on the study, found in her previous research that the biological clock in the model fungal system Neurospora crassa controls daily rhythms in the activity of a signaling molecule, called p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK). This signaling protein plays a role in glioblastoma’s highly invasive and aggressive properties.

In the new research, David J. Earnest, PhD, a mammalian biological clocks expert at the Texas A&M College of Medicine and co-corresponding author on the study, collaborated with Bell-Pedersen to show that the clock controls daily rhythms in p38 MAPK activity in a variety of mammalian cells as well, including normal glial cells, the supporting “helper” cells surrounding neurons.

Furthermore, their work found that such regulation is absent in glioblastoma cells. “We tested to see if inhibition of this cancer-promoting protein in glioblastoma cells would alter their invasive properties,” said Bell-Pedersen, an internationally recognized leader in the fields of

circadian and fungal biology. “Indeed, we found that inhibition of p38 MAPK at specific times of the day—times when the activity is low in normal glial cells under control of the circadian clock—significantly reduced glioblastoma cell invasiveness to the level of noninvasive glioma cells.”

These findings indicate that glioblastoma might be a good candidate for chronochemotherapy, meaning treating cancer at specific times of day to get the most impact.

“Chronotherapeutic strategies have had a significant positive impact on the treatment of many types of cancer by optimizing the specific timing of drug administration to improve the efficacy and reduce the toxicity of chemotherapy,” Bell-Pedersen said. “However, circadian biology has not been applied to the development of chronotherapeutic strategies for the treatment of glioblastoma, and clinical outcomes for this common primary brain tumor have shown limited improvement over the past 30 years.”

Glioblastomas gained some attention this summer when Senator John McCain was diagnosed with the condition. “A big reason for poor prognosis for patients with this aggressive type of tumor is that the glioblastoma cells rapidly and unabatedly invade and disrupt the surrounding brain cells,” said Gerard Toussaint, MD, a clinician and assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Medicine who specializes in glioblastoma. Current treatments—including chemotherapy, surgical resection, immunotherapy and radiation—are largely ineffective in prolonging life expectancy beyond 18 months.

“We found that an inhibitor of p38 MAPK activity would make the cells behave less invasively, and if you can control the invasive properties, you can improve prognosis,” Earnest said. In addition, the team’s data indicate such treatment may be more effective and less toxic if administered at the appropriate time of the day.

This reduced toxicity is important, because a drug to inhibit the cancer-promoting activity of this protein was tested but found to be too harmful, with too many side effects. “If treatment with the drug can be timed to when the normal glial cells naturally have low activity of p38 MAPK, the addition of the drug might not be as toxic for these cells, and yet would still be very effective on the cancerous cells,” Earnest said.

Although promising, the current studies were done using cell cultures. The team’s next step is to test p38 inhibitor chronochemotherapy in an animal model for glioblastoma. If successful, they would then move on to clinical trials.

“We work on a model system, and the reason to do that is that we can make progress quickly, and we always hope that what we’re working on will lead to something useful, and I think this is a prime example of how putting effort into basic research can pay off,” Bell-Pedersen said. “We’re very hopeful and encouraged by our data that we’ll find a treatment.”

The research was initiated by Charles S. Goldsmith, first author on the study and a previous graduate student in the Interdisciplinary Genetics Program who completed his dissertation research in Bell-Pedersen’s CBCR-affiliated laboratory.