Harvest is just around the corner in our prairie region. We encourage everyone (farmers and the public) to take precautions and stay safe this harvest season.
On the Road
Take precautions when driving past or near slow-moving farm equipment.
Ensure all lights including brakes and turn signals are working and properly adjusted before moving farm equipment on public roads.
Keep mirrors and windows clean both in and out of the field.
Be aware of height, length and weight restrictions on farm vehicles and when permits may be required.
In the field
Inspect equipment regularly and ensure everything is in good working condition.
Ensure guards and shields are in place on all equipment.
Ensure first aid kits/fire extinguishers are stocked/full and in good working condition.
Clear plugged equipment after the power is turned off and keys removed.
Never trust hydraulic systems when working under a machine. Always use a safety prop if you must work under a header or other heavy machinery.
Check your tow ropes and chains when pulling out stuck equipment – try to use tow ropes in good condition instead of chains.
Have operational fire extinguishers mounted on equipment and everyone trained to use them. (recommended to have one in cab and one accessible from ground)
Have a shovel accessible on farm equipment for fires.
In the yard
Create a safe, separate and supervised play area for children on the farm.
Before moving a piece of machinery, do a walk around check to ensure no one is near the equipment and warn anyone in the immediate area that the machinery will be moving.
Do not ignore your health during the harvest season. It is important to try to get adequate sleep which will help you rejuvenate from a hard day and prepare you for the next busy day. Stay alert and take breaks! Take a break to eat your meals, even a short one. Get out of the cab and walk around every few hours.
If harvest becomes stressful for producers and their families, free confidential support is available through Manitoba Farm, Rural and Northern Support Services at 1-866-367-3276 (toll-free) or online at www.supportline.ca.
Prairie Mountain Health and Shared Health Joint Employee Family Fun BBQ: A Day of Sun, Fun, and Community at Minnedosa Beach
Prairie Mountain Health and Shared Health Joint Employee Family Fun BBQ: A Day of Sun, Fun, and Community at Minnedosa Beach
Story courtesy of the Minnedosa Tribune
On July 14th, from 11 am to 4 pm, Minnedosa Beach was the place to be as hundreds of Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) and Shared Health employees, along with their families, gathered for a delightful day of sun, fun, and community at the Employee Family Fun BBQ. The event which included physicians, nurses, and volunteers, was blessed with partially clear skies, warm weather, and a light breeze – perfect conditions for a day at the beach.
The picturesque Minnedosa Beach, known for its serene waters, boating, waterskiing and beautiful surroundings, provided the ideal backdrop for the event. As families arrived, the beach quickly filled with laughter and excitement. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the awesome Splash Waterpark, where children of all ages could be seen enjoying the various water features and slides. The gigantic floating inflatable, with its diverse waterscape of activities, was a huge hit with kids of all ages, offering endless entertainment and a refreshing escape from the summer heat.
In addition to the waterpark, a wide array of games and activities were organized to keep everyone engaged. The chillaxing and friendly banter among colleagues and their families added to the festive atmosphere, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community.
No BBQ is complete without delicious food, and this event was no exception. Attendees were treated to free drinks, chips, hotdogs, and cotton candy ensuring that everyone had the energy to participate in the day’s activities. The aroma of grilled hotdogs wafted through the air, enticing even the most reluctant eaters. The picnic tables, set up under the shade of nearby trees, and beach blankets provided a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy their meals together.
The event’s organizers ensured that there was a well-rounded experience for all ages. For the younger children, there were face painting stations, balloon animals, and a variety of beach toys.
Meanwhile, adults could unwind and socialize, taking in the scenic views of Minnedosa Beach and catching up with colleagues outside of the work environment. The event also featured a playlist of summery tunes that set the perfect mood, adding to the overall relaxed and joyous ambiance.
The Prairie Mountain Health Employee Family Fun BBQ was more than just a day at the beach; it was a celebration of the hard work and dedication of PMH and Shared Health employees. It provided a much-needed opportunity for healthcare workers and their families to unwind and enjoy some quality time together. The event highlighted the importance of work-life balance and the value of taking time to appreciate and connect with loved ones.
Community support played a crucial role in the success of the event.
Local businesses and organizations generously contributed, helping to make the day memorable for all attendees. Their support underscored the close-knit nature of the Minnedosa community and its commitment to recognizing and celebrating the efforts of healthcare professionals.
As the day drew to a close, families began to pack up their belongings and shared stories of the day’s adventures. The smiles and laughter that filled the air were a testament to the event’s success. It was clear that the Family Fun BBQ event had achieved its goal of providing a day of relaxation, enjoyment, and community building to our heroic health care providers.
In the end, the event served as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the healthcare community. It brought together individuals from a wide variety of roles within PMH and Shared Health, reinforcing the bonds that unite them in their shared mission to provide quality healthcare. The Employee Family Fun BBQ at Minnedosa Beach was a shining example of the positive impact that a supportive and connected community can have on the well-being of its members.
**Thanks to the members of the PMH Employee Wellness Team for organizing and supporting this fun event.**
World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10. Across the Prairie Mountain Health region, numerous activities are planned in September to recognize the importance of suicide prevention.
The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day is Changing the Narrative on Suicide– with a Call to Action- #starttheconversation. The theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of changing the narrative surrounding suicide and transforming how we perceive this complex issue. Changing the narrative requires systemic change and support. – 1. as outlined by the International Association for Suicide Prevention.
So, let’s start the conversation today. No matter how small, every chat builds a more supportive and understanding society. Together, we can make a difference and prioritize suicide prevention, ensuring everyone gets the help they need. Starting the conversation is a crucial opportunity to shift the narrative around suicide and mental health. Changing the narrative involves addressing several key aspects:
Reducing Stigma: One of the main goals is to break down the stigma associated with mental health issues and suicide. By encouraging open discussions and normalizing conversations about mental health, we can help individuals feel more comfortable seeking help and support.
Promoting Awareness: Increased awareness about the signs of mental health crises and the resources available for help can make a significant difference. Educational opportunities such as safeTALK and Mental Health First Aid can inform people about how to recognize when someone might be at risk and how to approach and support them effectively.
Empowering Conversations: Shifting the narrative means fostering compassionate and non-judgmental conversations. Focusing on listening and understanding is important rather than offering quick solutions or judgments. This can help create a safe space for those struggling to open up.
Highlighting Stories of Hope: Sharing stories of recovery and hope can inspire others and show that change is possible. Hearing about others who have overcome similar struggles can encourage and demonstrate that seeking help can lead to positive outcomes.
Encouraging Help-Seeking Behavior: Emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength rather than weakness can encourage people to reach out when they need support. It’s essential to make mental health resources and professional help more accessible and less intimidating. Share SPIN power cards with others! Request on the SPIN website.
Supporting Survivors: Providing support to those who have lost loved ones to suicide is also a vital part of changing the narrative. Check out the SPIN website for more information about the Suicide Bereavement Support Group in Brandon.
By addressing these areas, World Suicide Prevention Day can help reshape how society views and responds to suicide and mental health challenges, ultimately leading to better support systems and reduced rates of suicide.
Talking about suicide is difficult, but there are things you can do. You can listen to people with a non-judgmental ear and remind the person you care for them. You can check in with people regularly to see how they are doing and listen supportively. You do not need to have all the answers. You can let others know they are not alone. You can be aware of resources in your area and introduce people to those resources.
Events in Brandon:
In Brandon, The Suicide Prevention Implementation Network (SPIN) Is offering a chance for everyone to join us in promoting awareness about suicide. On Friday, September 6, in honour of World Suicide Prevention Day, we hope to create a safe space for the community to come together to find resources, remember loved ones, or support others who have been touched by suicide. We will meet in the Cultural Room of the A.R. McDiarmid Civic Complex, 638 Princess Avenue, from 11:30 am- 1:00 pm SPIN has some light snacks and activities structured around having difficult conversations and Instilling hope and wellness in the community. During this event, SPIN will also present special recognition awards to those nominated for making a difference in our community by actively advocating for suicide prevention and life promotion.
SPIN Is also hosting a FREE 3-hour safeTALK training – Monday, September 9, from 5 pm – 8 pm at the Elspeth Reid Family Resource Centre. This educational opportunity will help you to be ready to reach out to someone thinking about suicide, overcome attitudes that act as barriers to help, talk openly about suicide and identify and connect people to resources in your area. SPACE is limited; register by emailing [email protected]
Candlelight Vigil – On Friday, September 6th, Westman Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Association is hosting a gathering at the Brandon University Garden on 18th Street in front of the Clark Hall Building at 7:30 pm. They will be giving out candles, and collecting names in memorial (optional to provide). The group will then walk to Stanley Park (8:00 pm) for a reading of names and a moment of silence to be held at the park. Candles for this event will also be made available at the SPIN event earlier in the day.
Events happening in some PMH rural and northern communities:
Chalk the Walk– happening in Ste. Rose, Swan River, Roblin, and Dauphin. Community members or businesses interested in participating can pick chalk up from their local HERO Club or Community Health office in Swan River, Roblin and Dauphin, and the Community Health office in Ste. Rose. Chalk the Walk does not have a set date and will run from September 4 to 11th in these communities.
Awareness Walks – happening on September 10 from 12-1 pm in Swan River & Dauphin.
If you are struggling or concerned about someone else’s suicidal thoughts, do not hesitate to reach out for help.
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 needed resources.
PMH Resources contact Westman Crisis Services at 204-725-4411 or 1-888-379-7699 in the Brandon Area or 1-866-332-3030 for PMH-North- Call 911 or contact a local hospital or health office.
NEW: 988-suicide crisis line available to all Canadians in English and French, 24 hours a day and seven days a week. It will offer trauma-informed and culturally appropriate services by trained crisis responders by phone or text.
Prairie Mountain Health- North Mental Wellness and Crisis Resources
New Neepawa Residency Unit begins within Prairie Mountain Health region
New Neepawa Residency Unit begins within Prairie Mountain Health region
The first Neepawa-based Family Medicine Residency Program. From left are Dr. Brian Milligan, Program Director, Residents Dr. Gabrielen Alvero and Dr. Emma Ball and Jenna Kilburn, Program Administrator.
Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) continues to support efforts to enhance access to physician and primary care services in the region. The region already has strong partnerships with two Residency Programs (Brandon Satellite Campus and Parkland Family Medicine Residency Unit, based in Dauphin) and in early July, a third program got underway in Neepawa.
The two-year Residency Program, with two Year 1 Residents, is under the guidance of Dr. Brian Milligan of the Beautiful Plains Medical Clinic. Jenna Kilburn is the program administrator at the Neepawa site. The Residency Program is funded by the University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. Besides their home base in Neepawa, the residents will also do rotations at other regional and provincial sites.
PMH is excited about the possibilities going forward. The community of Neepawa and surrounding area is growing and the new hospital under construction is slated to be completed in the summer of 2026.
“This provides exceptional opportunities for physicians to train in a rural setting and the potential to further increase the number of physicians who remain to practice in our rural communities, like Neepawa,” stated Treena Slate, CEO of PMH.
It’s back to school season, which means for most families that it’s time to pack lunches. Packing lunches can feel like a challenge trying to balance nutrition, budget, variety, food safety, and figuring out what your kids will actually eat. Here are a few tips for streamlining the task of packing lunches.
Get your kids involved – Involve your kids in the decision making and preparation. Decision making can start at the grocery store with simple decisions, for example, “would you like bananas or oranges in your lunch this week?”. When kids can be involved in some planning and decision making about meals, there is a better chance they will enjoy what’s packed! Involving kids in packing lunches also teaches important life skills like meal preparation, grocery shopping, as well as helping them discover their own preferences, and build a healthy relationship with food.
Make lunches the night before – Mornings are busy! Make life easier by packing lunches the night before. Pack lunches while cleaning up supper, especially easy if the leftovers can be packed in lunches.
Pack foods your kids like – Packed lunches are not the place to get your kids to try new foods. Save trying new foods for when they are at home, and in a relaxed environment. Pack foods that you know your kids like, even if that means packing the same items every day. This also means including food items that are just for fun. Different foods have different purposes, some foods purpose is enjoyment. Making these foods scarce only makes them more exciting to kids, and makes them want them more, which can cause a power struggle between the parent and child. When these “fun foods” are available in packed lunches regularly, eventually your child will see them as just another packed item, and will reduce their perceived “obsession” with them. In the long run, this will help kids develop a healthier relationship with food, and help them not feel out of control around these foods when exposed to them as a child, teen, and into adulthood.
Everyone has a job – Feeding kids can be a challenge, and meal times can feel like a power struggle if not everyone knows their job. According to Ellyn Satter, parents and kids each have a job to do at mealtime. At home it’s the parent’s job to provide food regularly, and to decide what, when, and where food is provided for their kids. At home it’s the child’s job to decide if they are going to eat what is provided, and how much. At school, the jobs shift a little. At school, it’s the parent’s job to decide (with input from the child) what is packed in the lunch, it’s the child’s job to decide if they are going to eat what is packed, in what order, and how much, and it is the teacher’s job to decide when and where the food is eaten. This may mean that your child doesn’t eat everything in their lunch or on their plate, but it helps your child learn to understand and listen to their own hunger cues, helping them develop a healthy relationship with food.
Pack a variety of foods – Some kids eat a larger variety of foods than others, and that is ok. Kids are still learning about different foods and their preferences. Here is a lunch checklist to include different important nutrients. If kids are given a snack time at school, don’t forget to pack enough for lunch and snacks.
Protein food
Whole grain carbohydrate food
Fruit and/or vegetable
Fun food
Water
Examples:
Homemade “Lunchables”
Sliced meat and cheese
Whole grain crackers
Baby carrots and grapes
Banana chocolate chip muffin
Water
Sandwich
Tuna salad sandwich
Whole grain bread
Snap peas and fruit cup
Brownie
Water
Leftovers
Chicken noodle soup in a thermos, hummus or tzatziki for crackers and celery
Whole grain crackers
Celery sticks and mandarin orange
Gummies
Water
Don’t forget food safety – Use ice packs and thermoses to keep foods at a safe temperature until lunch time.
Construction complete at Community Cancer Care Centre in Russell
August 21, 2024
Dignitaries, stakeholders and staff gathered to officially cut the ribbon to the new $2.5 million cancer care building adjoined to the Russell Health Centre on August 21, 2024.
Construction to expand Community Cancer Program space at Russell Health Centre has now been completed, and the significant milestone was recognized today with a grand opening celebration. The $2.5 million building expansion, which went into use in mid-July, improves patient experience and access to cancer treatment services for Russell and the surrounding region. The building addition is roughly four times the size of the former space located within the hospital and offers larger patient care areas and improved workspace for staff.
“We’re so proud of the exceptional quality of care delivered by CancerCare here in Russell, and this expansion project will only improve that quality of care for patients,” said Minister of Health, Seniors and Long Term Care Uzoma Asagwara. “Thank you to the dedicated community members who worked to make this expansion a reality. Your hard work will help more Manitobans hear those four amazing words: ‘you are cancer-free'”.
The Expanding Community Cancer Care Committee (ECCC) raised the majority of the funding to construct the 3300 sq. ft building addition, which is aptly named the Community Cancer Care Centre. The province committed $700,000 towards the building addition, which included:
Staff and reception area to the newly expanded Cancer Care Unit at Russell Health Centre
relocation of the dedicated nursing station and medication storage area;
creation of a dedicated patient washroom, nourishment area, and a small waiting area; and
expanded patient care spaces to improve patient privacy.
The Expanding Community Cancer Care (ECCC) committee includes membership from the communities of Angusville, Beulah, Binscarth, Birtle, Foxwarren, Inglis, Langenburg, Sask., Roblin, Rossburn, Russell, St. Lazare, Shellmouth, Silverton, Solsgirth and Waywayseecappo.
“After almost 10 years of fundraising for a new cancer care unit at the Russell Health Centre, we are delighted that this long-awaited project is now a reality,” said Gloria Tibbatts, co-chair, ECCC committee. “Our dream has been fulfilled, and the benefits will serve many. We would like to thank the people from around our region who have supported us. The power of community and of our donors is what made this possible, and we want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts”.
A celebration barbecue was held for staff and stakeholders following the grand opening event at Russell Health Centre.
Prairie Mountain Health has collaborated with health partners and stakeholders to plan for the necessary building and construction costs and associated timelines for this important capital project.
The regional health authority will contribute annual operating costs related to the expansion, including staffing and supplies.
“We are very grateful to the Expanding Community Cancer Care committee for their vision, hard work and dedication in fundraising for this expansion,” said Treena Slate, Chief Executive Officer, Prairie Mountain Health. “Cancer is a journey, and this new addition will better serve patients and families travelling for care in a more comfortable setting.”
“The expansion of the Community Cancer Program in Russell is a testament to the power of community spirit. By bringing high-quality care closer to home, we are working together to improve access for our cancer patients and honouring the local community’s incredible support and generosity,” said Dr. Navaratnam, President & CEO, CancerCare Manitoba “This project is a shining example of what we can achieve together”.
Construction on the additional parking lot has commenced. The $800,000 separate project is also being completely funded by the Expanding Community Cancer Committee.
A separate project has just begun with the construction of a new community cancer centre parking lot. The parking lot, which the Expanding Community Cancer Committee is completely funding, is anticipated to be completed this October.
Dauphin Medical Clinic honoured with 2024 Teaching Site of the Year Award
Dauphin Medical Clinic honoured with 2024 Teaching Site of the Year Award
The University of Manitoba, Department of Family Medicine, held its U of M 2024 Inspire DFM Awards June 5th. The awards are held annually to celebrate outstanding staff, faculty, residents, and teaching sites who elevate the Department of Family Medicine, improve healthcare, and help to train the next generation of caring and committed family physicians.
The Dauphin Medical Clinic was honoured to receive the 2024 Teaching Site of the Year award. From nominator Dr. Chavi Tejpal, a Postgraduate Year 2 lead resident at the Parkland Family Medicine Residency Unit:
“I support Dauphin Medical Clinic for multiple reasons. The Parkland Family Medicine Residency Program, created in 1991, is the second oldest rural training program in Canada for Family Medicine. With its strong roots and training, Dauphin provides more than academic opportunities for our residents.”
“Having been a part of this program, I have experienced first-hand the exceptional community foundations, resources, and support structures it offers to its residents. One of the standout features of the program is its unwavering commitment to the health of the community.
The availability of resources such as the Primary Care Outreach Clinic (PCOC), public health initiatives such as breast feeding and immunization clinics, and multimodal mental health services ensures that residents are equipped to effectively address a wide range of patient needs.”
Dr. Tejpal says the program fosters a culture of collaboration and support among inter-professionals, providing residents with invaluable opportunities for interdisciplinary learning to enhance patient care.
“I am particularly impressed by the dedication of preceptors who open their homes as spaces for wellness activities, demonstrating a personal investment in the growth and development of residents. The active involvement and presence of a dedicated dietitian and mental health worker further illustrates the programs commitment to comprehensive care and resident support.”
Dr. Tejpal adds that accessibility of local specialists enhances the learning experience, providing residents with exposure to diverse medical perspectives and specialties such as a geriatric, adult and child psychiatrist, surgeons and unique niches in family medicine such as cancer care, geriatrics, dermatology, obstetrics, anesthesia and emergency medicine.
Dr. Anthony Wightman, who recently completed his first year of the residency program says the Dauphin Medical Clinic plays a vital role in the success of the Parkland Family Medicine Program.
“Manitoba has a vast catchment, diverse population, and skilled physicians. It is the best province to train for family medicine in, and the Parkland program is the best family medicine site within Manitoba for three reasons: its location, the resources, and the team.
PICTURED: The Dauphin Medical Clinic recently received the U of M, Department of Family Medicine’s 2024 Teaching Site of the Year Award. From left are award nominators Dr. Anthony Wightman, (first year Medical Resident), Dr. Chavi Tejpal (second-year Medical Resident), Dr. Sheldon Permeak – Associate Head, Department of Family Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Science, University of Manitoba and Dr. Scott Kish, Stream Lead – Parkland Family Medicine Residency Unit.
The Parkland Family Residency Program is close enough to Brandon and Winnipeg that specialist support is available in emergencies. However, it is far enough that its physicians and residents must often differentiate and effectively treat their patients before support is available or accessible.”
Dr. Wightman concludes this relative isolation means that the residents are driven to be independent, assertive, and skilled in the clinic, ER, and hospital. Residents who graduate from the Parkland program often pursue additional training in anesthesiology and emergency medicine, providing benefit to the residency program and communities as a whole, which is necessitated by some of the area’s remoteness. Medical Clinics and facilities in nearby Grandview and Ste. Rose also play a participating role in the Parkland program.
“The Parkland program’s remoteness is balanced by a significant support network. It incorporates a clinical dietitian, respiratory therapists, and community mental health workers into its training team, which other sites do not. Parkland’s physical setup is also excellent. The emergency room is clean, modern, and has easily accessible ultrasound machines which residents are encouraged to use.”
The Dauphin Medical Clinic is across the street from Dauphin Regional Health Centre. With over 20 physicians, Dauphin has a wealth of family doctors, plus physicians in emergency medicine and anesthesiology, obstetricians and general surgeons to learn from. Dr. Wightman believes since Dauphin is so well staffed, these physicians have ample time to teach and support residents. This breadth of experience includes disciplines covering obstetrics, pediatrics, general medicine, geriatrics, addictions, emergency, anesthesiology, and palliative care. “I recently completed a month of training at the Winnipeg Health Sciences Centre ER – many of the doctors there trained in Parkland and spoke highly of it,” stated Dr. Wightman. “On all my off-service blocks, attendings have spoken positively of the program. Now, after several months, I am honoured to be able to attest to its excellence myself. The Parkland Family Medicine Residency Program, with strong support from the Dauphin Medical Clinic, is the best teaching site in Manitoba.”
Health officials, partners, stakeholders and staff gathered outside the Swan Valley Health Centre in Swan River July 31 to formally acknowledge enhancements to diagnostic imaging services in the Prairie Mountain Health region with the recent addition of a new CT Scanner in the hospital. Shared Health and Prairie Mountain Health both sincerely thanked and congratulated local municipal and community leaders for their hard work and generous contribution of $1-million towards the capital investment, which came in at over $2-million.
PICTURED: (l-r) Lance Jacobson, Swan River Mayor, Karen Beheyt, PMH Manager Rural Diagnostic Services, Duane Whyte, co-chair Swan Valley Medical Services/Recruitment Committee, Alaynah Hohne and Kali Sauder, Shared Health Diagnostic Imaging Technicians, Treena Slate, PMH CEO and Mohammed Bhabha, Executive Director of Diagnostic Imaging for Shared Health.
“We know this service is already making a difference in our region, stated Treena Slate, PMH CEO. “Having this service in Swan River will alleviate hardships on patients and families who no longer have to travel or be transported by ambulance and can now have their CT scan closer to home.”
Slate took the opportunity to once again thank the representatives of the local municipalities and community leaders that got behind the project from the start.
“From my heart, I want to sincerely thank you for your dedication, perseverance and patience as all the necessary details were worked out provincially.”
Swan Valley Medical Services/Recruitment representative Duane Whyte and Swan River Mayor Lance Jacobson, Chair of the Swan Valley Health Facilities Foundation, reiterated that having the new scanner operating in the northern part of the health region is already having benefits not only locally but regionally and provincially. They indicated the new diagnostic equipment further strengthens overall services that are offered at the health centre and will also assist in future health care staffing recruitment efforts.
Mohammed Bhabha, Executive Director of Diagnostic Imaging for Shared Health, led off the proceedings by extolling the benefits of having the CT Scanner in Swan River.
“Until two months ago, residents in Swan Valley who needed this type of diagnostic scan would need to leave the community to get it, with the next closest CT scanner being nearly two hours away in Dauphin. Some patients would have to travel even further, to Brandon and Winnipeg, to get the care they need. This now reduces pressures on emergency response services who often transport these patients, keeping ambulances in this area and available to respond to other calls. And it will open up appointments in other communities, which will allow more people to get the care they need sooner and closer to home.”
The CT scanner was installed within the Swan Valley Health Centre in May. The new diagnostic equipment went into operation in mid-June and is expected to service a population area of approximately 14,000. Two X-ray technologists received training to operate the scanner. For more on that health care training journey, read the related Shared Health article.
International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) – held on August 31 every year – is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died and acknowledge the grief of family and friends left behind.
This year’s theme for 2024 is “Together We Can,” highlighting the power of our community when we all stand together in support of those connected to the tragedy of overdose. No one should stand alone in our fight to end overdose.
While every individual action matters greatly, coming together as an international community creates a powerful collective action. One that moves us with greater speed toward our shared goal of preventing and, ultimately, ending all overdoses.
For people who use drugs and those who don’t. For heartbroken friends and family members of lost loved ones. For activists who fight for sorely needed policy reform. For healthcare and harm reduction workers. For tireless advocates. Overdose can affect anyone, and we encourage you to remember the tenacity of our community. Lean into the power that we can have when we work together.
This August 31, reach out and connect with others in your local community and join the global IOAD movement. Our collective voices are stronger, louder, and the most impactful when brought together. Join us in continuing to be a part of the change. Get Involved – International Overdose Awareness Day (overdoseday.com) has other options for getting involved, resources, and campaign materials available if you’d like to host an event in your community.
On August 1, Brandon and Area Gone Too Soon and Substance Use Awareness will be hosting an event at Dinsdale Park at 5:30. All are invited to put up purple ribbons and pictures of those who have died due to toxic drugs and or substance-related harms. You can also add your loved one’s name and/or photo to the local campaign by emailing [email protected]. Visit the Brandon and Area Gone Too Soon and Substance Use Awareness Facebook page.
Join us on Saturday, October 5 for the Westman Yoga Festival, a day filled with relaxation, mindfulness, and rejuvenation. Get ready to dive into the world of yoga and connect with like-minded individuals. Lunch will be provided. Held at the Keystone Centre from 9am to 4pm. For all abilities ages 18 plus. Cost is $52.50. Register here. Registration deadline is September 27.
