International Day of People Impacted by Suicide Loss
International Day of People Impacted by Suicide Loss – Nov. 19, 2022
Losing someone to suicide is a unique loss and can lead to several conflicting feelings and many unanswered questions. There is no one way to feel or grieve a death by suicide – we all react and grieve differently. It is important to remember that you are not alone – that suicide impacts more people than we often know about.
International Day of People Impacted by Suicide Loss is an annual event in which survivors of suicide loss come together to find connection, understanding, and hope through their shared experiences.
The Suicide Prevention Implementation Network (SPIN) is hosting an in person event for everyone in Brandon and Area to attend.
Please join SPIN on November 14th 2022, at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium, Brandon Manitoba, as we host the International Day of People Impacted by Suicide Loss.
Doors open at 5:45pm for viewing a wall of remembrance/ community booths, and mingling
At 7pm: Screening of the film Surviving Suicide, a documentary exploring the lives of 4 individuals living in Canada who have an intimate relationship with suicide. Throughout the film, we get to know these people, the role that suicide has played in their lives, and the life that they have found after Surviving Suicide.
7:45pm: Post-screening discussion moderated by filmmaker, Paul Plett, with panelist Bonnie Bricker (featured in the film)
Admission: Donation based/ pay what you can (cash only). If folks cannot afford the recommended $7 cost of admission, please donate what you can afford. If you are able to give more than $7 you are helping others to attend.
“Eliminating stigma and talking about suicide by the people left behind allow not only for healing but for further education and advocacy in the name of suicide prevention and life promotion.” Sean Krausert, Executive Director of CASP
If you are struggling yourself or are concerned about someone else’s suicidal thoughts, do not hesitate to reach out for help. You can contact the Manitoba Suicide Prevention and Support Line at 1-877-435-7170, a crisis line available 24 hours per day. A trained crisis worker will listen to you and direct you to the resources you need.
Submitted by: Carla Mitchell, MSW/RSW, PMH Palliative Care
“Grieving Is How We Say Goodbye”
The third Tuesday in November marks National Grief and Bereavement Day in Canada. Throughout the month of November, culminating on Nov 15th, the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association is promoting the resources and tools to help Canadians on their grief journeys. Everyone will experience grief at some point in their lives. National Grief and Bereavement Day is the opportunity for Canadians to share and normalize talking about grief, and to highlight the resources that can help those among us who are coping with loss.
Grief is the natural and normal response we have when we lose someone or something that holds great value to us. The grieving process gives us the opportunity to say goodbye to that important piece of our life and acknowledge the adjustments that will come as we move forward, heal and grow.
Prairie Mountain Health Palliative Care is marking National Grief and Bereavement Day by acknowledging those who are experiencing grief and promoting the resources and supports available in our health region. While grief can feel like a lonely journey, there are supports available so that you do not walk this path alone.
Telephone Support Lines
Province Wide Bereavement Phone Line (Palliative Manitoba): 1-800-539-0295
Hope for Wellness Line (Indigenous peoples): 1-855-242-3310
Healing Hearts Substance Use Bereavement Support Group (Brandon): 1-204-573-0188
Memories Chapel Journey Through Grief Support Group (Brandon): 1-204-727-0330
New Beginnings Grief and Loss Group (Neepawa): 1-204-476-3027
Palliative Manitoba Kids and Teens Grieve Too! Support Group (virtual): 1-800-539-0295
Paull Funeral Home Grief Recovery Program (Swan River): 1-204-293-9661
Prairie Mountain Health Camp Bridges (Children 7-15): 1-204-578-2340
Westman Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba Grief Groups (Brandon) 1-204-721-2174
In addition to the above listed services there are several upcoming community events where you can find support in your grief. Many communities offer programs during the months of November and December, such as Community Memorial Services, Memory Trees or Blue Christmas gatherings. If you would like more information about local events happening in your community please reach out to the Palliative Care Volunteer and Bereavement Coordinator, Carla Mitchell, at 204-578-2310 or [email protected].
On November 15th, in recognition of National Grief and Bereavement Day, a screening of the documentary Speaking Grief will be hosted by Brockie Donovan and Westman Hospice in Brandon. Speaking Grief validates the experiences of grievers and guides those who wish to support them. This event will happen on Nov 15, 2022 @ 4:00 pm. To RSVP call 204-727-0694.
What do you know about choosing a mobility aid for your loved one? What if your loved one has dementia? Should they use an aid or will this increase their risks for falling? Who can help?
The priority for all caregivers is ensuring their loved one is cared for and safe. Noticing changes in a person’s ability to walk can be alarming but can also be a warning sign to changes in cognition and health.
Studies have shown that changes in a person’s walk often can be a symptom prior to the onset of dementia. Studies have also shown that people with dementia have an annual fall risk of 60-80% (Allan et al. PloSONE 2009) which is 2 times that of someone without dementia.
In the article Caregivers: Does your loved one need a gait aid? Marguerite Oberle Thomas speaks to the risks and benefits of using a mobility aid as well as the importance of seeking professional advice from health care professionals such as an occupational therapist prior to purchasing.
Five New International Medical Graduates Recruited
Dr. Sidra Jawed | Neepawa
Physician recruitment efforts continue within Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) region. One of the initiatives the region utilizes as part of overall recruitment strategies includes the provincial Medical Licensure Program for International Medical Graduates (MLPIMG). The ‘IMG Program’ assists foreign-trained doctors in obtaining their medical license to be able to practice as a primary care (family) physician in Manitoba.
“During the past year, the region sponsored five physicians to participate in the ‘IMG’ Program,” said Brian Schoonbaert, PMH CEO. “After much consideration, doctors that successfully graduated from the program were strategically placed at various sites within PMH communities (or nearby areas) that require additional sufficient physician resources.
This year, these communities included Neepawa, Roblin, Russell, Virden and Swan River. Physicians and their start date in each community are listed below.
Shady Attalla Virden (started Sept. 19)
Dalia Bushara Roblin (started Oct. 3)
Samin Izadi Swan River (started Sept. 19)
Sidra Jawed Neepawa (started Sept. 19)
Dina Koreen Russell (started Sept. 19)
Dr. Samin Izadi | Swan River
In return for regional sponsorship, IMG doctors agree to practice in their respective communities for four years. The Program is supported by the University of Manitoba —Max Rady College of Medicine, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba and Manitoba Health.
Last year, five PMH-sponsored IMG physicians were placed in the communities of Killarney (2), Minnedosa, Roblin and Swan River.
“The International Medical Graduates program is an excellent example of partners coming together to provide Manitobans the care they need where and when they need it,” said Minister of Health Audrey Gordon. “The program supports physician placement in much needed rural communities throughout the province by matching them with internationally trained physicians. The province is proud to strengthen healthcare by supporting this program and delivering quality care to all Manitobans.”
During the next rotation, which is already underway, PMH is sponsoring five more IMG physicians who commenced their training program this past June. If successful, they will be able to commence practice within the health region sometime next fall (2023).
November is Falls Prevention month and Falls Prevention can be fun!
Falls are the leading cause of death in Prairie Mountain Health. But here’s the thing – they are often completely preventable. It’s everyone’s responsibility to prevent falls.
Let’s talk Seniors. Steppin’ Up with Confidence is an older adult exercise program offered in communities across PMH. Move your body! It is one of the best ways to prevent a fall. Here’s how:
Better Balance – keeping those little stabilizing muscles in your body alert to help you stay balanced in day to day activities like walking to pick up the mail on a cracked or slippery sidewalk.
Muscle Endurance – a few trips from the house to your car getting packed to go visit your grandchildren, carrying multiple items, possibly up or down a couple of stairs takes some stamina! Keep that oxygen flowing through your blood and into your muscles to help them work and make life a tad easier.
That Double ‘S’ – STRONG muscles around your core and joints provide SUPPORT to move with ease in a larger range of motion. Oops, you had a fall?! Those well supported hip and shoulder joints and strong limbs can help you to crawl to a chair and get back up. Not to mention the stability in your midsection from your regular exercise that helps in every single movement your body does.
Stretchy flexy – take care of those valuable muscles you have in your body by stretching them. Flexibility helps reach that top shelf in the pantry or bend over into the freezer, twist while you move clothes from the washer to the dryer or get up and down off the floor to play with a pet or new great grandchild.
Movement is much more than ‘just a workout’, it’s a tool to assist us as we age to continue being able to do the things we like to do and take care of ourselves.
Steppin’ Up with Confidence is a free, peer-led program offered for 1 hour once per week. And even more than some exercise and falls prevention, it’s fun. Take a friend or meet someone new in the group, maybe you would even like to be a leader!
For more information on Steppin’ Up, to find out if there’s a program near or in your community or find out about becoming a leader, contact:
Sydney Lochhead, Health Promotion Coordinator 204-523-3224 // [email protected]
Falls Prevention is an important topic for all ages, not just seniors. Check out these PMH Resources to learn more.
Who else believes that October is synonymous with pumpkin? This rather large round orange gourd is commonly served up as pumpkin pie or featured in other baked goods; we even have a spice blend named after it (pumpkin pie spice). However, did you know that pumpkin is extremely versatile and can be used in both savory and sweet applications?
With pumpkin being high in micronutrients like vitamin A and C, a good source of Vitamin E, folate, iron and low in energy (calories), it is a great addition to your diet (1). In fact, 1 cup of cooked pumpkin contains approximately 245% of you daily recommended intake for Vitamin A (1).
You may be wondering, how do I and can I use a pumpkin in my cooking? Luckily for us, pumpkin can be found in many different forms: from the whole gourd, to cooked, canned and pureed. The easiest and most convenient option is plain/unsweetened canned pureed pumpkin. Yet, for those who like a cooking project, you can also prepare your own puree. The Minimalist Baker has a simple step by step guide on how you can cook your own pumpkin (How to Roast Pumpkin (& Make Purée) | Minimalist Baker Recipes).
Now moving on to the delicious section of this article: the recipes. As highlighted before, pumpkin is commonly seen in dessert applications but it is also a great addition to savory dishes. Its creamy texture when pureed provides richness to a dish without the need for extra cream and its bright orange color adds visual appeal. One of my favorite fall soups is this rich and flavorful curry pumpkin soup (Simple Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe | Ree Drummond | Food Network). Warm and comforting on a chilly fall day, this soup is velvety smooth from both the pumpkin and coconut milk and bursting with flavor from the warm spices and aromatics. Another delicious savory way to use pumpkin is to add it to your pasta sauces. Try making this pumpkin and sage alfredo pasta sauce (Pumpkin Sage Alfredo Pappardelle with Brown Butter – A Cozy Kitchen) or this dairy-free mac’n’cheese recipe (Vegan Pumpkin Mac ‘n’ Cheese | Minimalist Baker Recipes).
Being an October staple, I of course have to end the article with some creative and new sweet pumpkin recipes. Using our reliable can of pumpkin puree, you can essentially transform any typical baked good into a “pumpkin-ifed” version by adding in ~1cup of the puree & 1-2 tsp of pumpkin spice to the recipe. Instead, try adding 1/3 cup of pumpkin puree and ½ tsp of pumpkin spice to your next bowl of oatmeal for a play on pumpkin pie (don’t forget to sprinkle it with toasted pecans). Or add ½ cup of pumpkin puree, 2 tsp pumpkin spice to 1 cup of vanilla Greek yogurt to make a protein rich pumpkin pie dip.
Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) was proud to host the provincial Family Medicine Residents’ Retreat, which took place in Brandon on September 23-24, 2022. The in-person event had been on hold for the past few years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
PMH CEO Brian Schoonbaert was pleased with the event and was confident participants would leave with a much better understanding of the many physician practice opportunities available in rural Manitoba.
“We believe that the lifestyle choices new physicians seek can be found in our rural settings. Our landscapes offer open prairies, serene and bustling communities, many lakes, small ‘mountains,’ numerous walking, hiking and biking trails, and close access to both provincial and national parks. We hope that recruits recognize what we already know; living and working in rural settings can be very rewarding!
Over 90 family medicine residents attended the weekend gathering, which featured information sessions on breastfeeding, geriatric frailty, Medical Assistance in Dying, point of care ultrasound and physician billing and finance information. An interactive job fair allowed many recruiters, including Regional Health Authorities and physician clinics throughout the province, to showcase their areas to prospective doctors.
PICTURED: Above- PMH was well-represented at the Residents’ Retreat Job Fair. From left are Dr. Mryanda Sopel, Dr. Nolan Brackenreed, Dr. Adrian Fung and Dr. Leah Koetting. At left, Residents get some suturing practice in while at right, it’s a special arts and crafts painting project as part of a team building exercise.
Schoonbaert says PMH will stay in touch with those interested in rural medicine.
“Within our health region alone, there’s lots to look forward to, including the construction of a new $127-million hospital in Neepawa and larger renovations planned for Brandon Regional Health Centre (BRHC) that will add a new ICU, more medical beds, and an expansion to the neonatal ICU. There are also enhancements planned for the Westman Cancer Centre so that when paired with the BRHC upgrades, Brandon will become the intermediate care hub for western Manitoba.”
Some other smaller capital projects are planned for hospitals in Dauphin, Souris, Killarney and Virden, which will help enhance localized service delivery and improve access to quality patient care. There are other exciting developments and expansions which have been announced by Manitoba Health and Shared Health, including the construction of a new hospital in Portage and additions to hospitals in Steinbach, the Boundary Trails Health Centre in Morden/Winkler and Selkirk, to name a few.
Schoonbaert sincerely thanks all of those from PMH that helped to organize the event and represent the health region at various functions.
The last Residents’ Retreat was held in 2019 and hosted by Interlake/Eastern RHA.
Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. These viruses can infect the nose, throat and lungs and cause mild to severe illness. The flu virus is mainly spread by tiny droplets. When people with the flu cough, sneeze or talk, these droplets can land in the mouth or nose of people nearby. A person may also get the flu by touching an object that has flu viruses on it and then touching their own mouth, nose or eyes. Some people, such as young children, seniors, and people with certain health conditions are at a higher risk of flu complications. The best way to reduce the risk of flu and its potential complications is by getting the flu vaccine each year.
People who have the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:
Fever or feeling feverish/chills
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headaches
Fatigue (tiredness)
Some may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children
Complications of the flu can include pneumonia, ear and sinus infections, or worsening of chronic medical conditions such as asthma and diabetes.
Flu vaccine signals your body to develop antibodies, which then provide protection against flu illness. It takes about two weeks to develop protection.
This year Manitoba Health is offering a high-dose flu vaccine for clients 65 years of age and older. This vaccine contains more antigen so it helps your body build up a stronger immune response and provide stronger protection against the flu virus.
You can get your flu and/or Covid vaccine at a local community clinic, pharmacy or your health care provider.
Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) Flu Clinics will be starting November 1st. For Flu Clinic dates and locations continue to check the PMH website and our Social Media pages (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter). Flu clinics will also be offering the Covid-19 vaccine.
The Flu vaccine will also be available at Covid-19 clinics starting the first week of October. For current Covid-19 Clinics in PMH click here.
Once again, this year you will be able to book your flu vaccine appointment online or call toll free 1-844-626-8222. Walk-ins will be accepted.
With addiction becoming increasingly visible in communities, groups in Swan River knew they needed to do something…. ‘quickly!” The growing poverty and addiction in the town were further heightened by the COVID- 19 pandemic when many organizations and businesses closed their doors to the public following provincial protocols.
This potentially denied essential needed services and contacts to the town’s most vulnerable residents. Businesses were impacted and concerned. Community organizations and worried students could see and feel the growing issue on the town’s streets daily.
Feeling that time had run out to act, Swan Valley Inter-agency, in partnership with Red Road Compass, Community Mobilization, Community Mental Health Association and Prairie Mountain Health My Health Team, came together to offer ‘Meet off Main nights.’
With so many pressing issues – addiction, mental health, trauma, poverty, homelessness and crime, there were no easy solutions. Meet off Main aimed to provide a safe, welcoming space for people to use the washroom, have a drink of water/coffee/tea and a warm meal while meeting valuable local service providers.
With regular friendly faces provided by local addiction supports, social work supports, nurses, volunteers and community connectors, Meet off Main ultimately strived to connect those in need with those who can help.
After one year of providing space, hospitality, respect and services, those who use the program are incredibly grateful and appreciative. Those who use the space look forward to the warmth of the area and meal and those who greet and interact with them.
“I still can’t believe you guys do this; it’s so amazing. People need it so much,” one appreciative guest shared.
After one year, organizers realized what was suspected— it was not enough.
Thankfully, because of ongoing community and organizational support, Meet off Main is looking to expand the number of days open and the services offered. Many exciting changes are on the way.
This Thanksgiving, while reflecting on all the good things throughout the year despite our challenges, remember that the work that gets done, the donations that get dropped off, and the people that show up to help are invaluable and appreciated.
Meet off Main Highlights
Over 1500 visits by over 100 unique guests.
A dynamic service model that offers PROVIDERS at the site after regular hours.
Incredible support from community members, businesses and faith groups integral to the program.
Donations and volunteers ALWAYS WELCOME!
For more information about Meet off Main, contact the Swan Valley CMHA Branch (204-734-2734) or the Swan Valley My Health Team at the Swan Valley Primary Care Centre (204-734-6600).
“Dauphin will always be home,” said Dr. Lauren Baker. “To provide care to a community that means so much to me is rewarding and also fulfilling. I absolutely love it here.”
Dr. Lauren Baker
From a young age, Dr. Lauren Baker admired the doctors in her hometown of Dauphin and credits their compassion and kindness for inspiring her career in medicine. Today, as a first-year resident in the Parkland Family Medicine Residency Program working out of the Dauphin Regional Health Centre, Dr. Baker is experiencing this support and kindness firsthand, from doctors who are now her colleagues.
“It’s such a strong teamwork environment here between all the health-care providers,” said Dr. Baker. “Everyone helps each other out and each doctor brings a unique set of skills to the community. From obstetrics to geriatric care, it’s an amazing opportunity to be able to learn alongside them.”
Dr. Baker’s first real experience in clinical medicine was through a program called Home for the Summer; an educational work placement to help medical students gain interprofessional skills and practical experience. While participating in the program, Dr. Baker quickly realized the support and opportunity available in rural health care settings, including in her home town of Dauphin.
“Throughout my journey I’m thankful to have had a variety of experiences and a lot of hands on learning,” said Dr. Baker. “Today in the residency program and as a new mom, I also feel lucky to be able to say it has been very supportive and the instructors are there for you every step of the way.”
The Parkland Family Medicine Residency Program is well-established in Dauphin, known for its resident support and educational opportunities. Each month, residents gather for two days of learning from local physicians. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, from emergency simulations to farm safety, each intended to prepare them for what they’ll see on the job, especially in a rural community.
“I truly believe that learning family medicine in rural Manitoba is the best place to prepare you for whichever path you want to pursue in the future. You get it all here.” said Dr. Baker. “In rural programs, you really build up the skills and confidence to work independently. This means working through situations where you might feel unsure of how to get started.”
Rural Family Medicine Programs are offered in both small and larger health facilities across rural Manitoba, providing medical students with diverse training opportunities that are unique to the health needs of the populations they serve.
Dr. Baker alongside Dr. Scott Kish, Site Education Director and Site Medical Lead of the Parkland Family Medicine Residency Unit at the University of Manitoba
The Parkland Family Medicine Residency Program Dauphin program is led by Dr. Scott Kish, Site Education Director and Site Medical Lead of the Parkland Family Medicine Residency Unit at the University of Manitoba. Dr. Kish is well-known in the community, devoting his efforts to the program and his full-time practice, making sure everyone feels supported. Recognized both provincially and nationally, Dr. Kish is a recipient of the Family Physician of the Year Award in Manitoba and the Rural Physicians of Canada Rural Service Award.
“Looking at how programs like this have developed in places like Portage la Prairie, Steinbach, at Boundary Trails Health Centre and in communities in Interlake-Eastern Health Region, I’m excited about the training opportunities that exist in rural communities across Manitoba,” said Dr. Kish. “Each area has started to really grow and it’s encouraging to see how we are able to meet the community needs.”
In Dauphin, the ‘community’s needs’ include care for more than 8,000 Dauphin residents as well as people living in surrounding communities and parts of northern Manitoba.
“Caring for people who come from a wide variety of backgrounds and cultures is a true benefit to us as care providers,” said Dr. Baker. “We serve many different populations here in Dauphin including Indigenous, Ukrainian, German, and Filipino residents to name a few. Learning from those we serve helps us build up knowledge and experience to provide more comprehensive care.”
For Dr. Baker, being part of the residency program in her hometown of Dauphin has been the perfect fit, offering her opportunities to care for her community and become a great doctor close to home while balancing her life as a new mom.
“Being a part of the community, having those connections, there’s a familiarity with patients that I really value,” said Dr. Baker. “They often feel more comfortable around me because of our shared community experiences and networks. This helps to develop trust, making it easier for them to open up and easier for me to provide better care.”
“It’s a great place to learn and practice,” added Dr. Kish. “With a great group of physicians, the incredible geographic location, many opportunities, and outdoor activities like kayaking and cycling, it feels like a world-class destination.”
For information about the Family Medicine Residency—Rural Stream visit their webpage. For employment opportunities in the Prairie Mountain Health Region, visit the Health Careers Manitoba webpage.
