Health & Wellness

A fundraiser dinner for local resident Samantha Pearson last Thursday at the Fort High cafeteria was a big success, drawing an estimated 500 people and raising funds to help out with expenses.
“This town is amazing,” said Pearson’s mother, Ellen Gagné, who was overwhelmed by the generosity of people and is proud to be a community member.

Kenora-Rainy River MPP Sarah Campbell is calling on the minister of Health and Long-Term Care to help residents of Rainy River find a permanent solution to their health care crisis.
Speaking in Question Period on Monday, Campbell asked Health minister Deb Matthews to outline the government’s plans to help ensure the community’s emergency room stays open.

The District Mental Health Services for Older Adults Program is pleased to present the 2012 Seniors’ Safety Calendar.
Seniors contribute greatly to our community, and the calendar was developed as a resource by providing information on various safety issues important to them.

So said the Wombles, a group of furry characters in a popular children’s television show in Britain in the 1970s.
The opening lines of the “Exercise” song were:
“Standing on your tiptoes, running on the spot,
“Exercise is good for you, laziness is not.”

The week of Nov. 24 is HIV & AIDS Awareness Week, ending with World AIDS Day on Thursday, Dec. 1.
Two new choices in HIV testing are now available at Northwestern Health Unit sexual health clinics throughout the region.

“The Garden of Life,” which is located in front of La Verendrye Hospital here, has been put to rest for the winter after a summer of reminder and enjoyment to those who passed by or took some time to sit and enjoy the peacefulness and beauty.

The Canadian Diabetes Association has recognized a Thunder Bay family for its inspirational work on behalf of people with diabetes.
The Wepruk family has been awarded the Dave Speer Inspiration Award, which is presented to an inspirational individual, or family, who has overcome great obstacles to manage their diabetes and continues to enjoy a fulfilling and active lifestyle.

Riverside Health Care Facilities, Inc. yesterday announced it officially has recruited a female physician, who will be setting up practice in Fort Frances in September, 2013.
She is a family physician, and also will work in the emergency department at La Verendrye Hospital.

High school students in Northwestern Ontario will be hearing from youth peer-to-peer educators from the Rainbow Resource Center based out of Winnipeg.
The students will be learning about the impacts of bullying, marginalization, and discrimination experienced by those who are, or are perceived to be, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and Two-Spirit (LGBTQTS).

The local Alzheimer Society’s “First Link” program provides support for individuals recently diagnosed with a dementia, and a free three-week series will be held here starting Nov. 17.
“Next Steps for Families & Friends” will offer family members caring for individuals with dementia an overview of dementia, coping strategies, and resources available.