Coping for December

It’s that time of the year again. Winter and the holiday season are upon us.

This holiday season can be a great time to reconnect with others, make family recipes for holiday dinners, and spread holiday cheer.

However, this time of the year can be very challenging: days are short with little daylight, finances get stretched to make holiday food and gift purchases, and routines change to attend holiday get-togethers.

So, how can we cope with these challenges during the holiday season?

There are a few suggestions on ways to cope during the busy holiday season^{1 2}:

Set boundaries and manage expectations– The holiday season can be busy and socially exhausting. To manage, you decide how the holiday season will look for you and delegate when you can.
Recharge your batteries – Attending personal and professional holiday gatherings can be tiring. Take time to rest after social gatherings and understand that attending (or not attending) holiday gatherings is up to you. You could also be feeling left out from these gatherings over the holidays as well; this can be an opportunity to volunteer, take care of yourself, and work on building your community.
Maintain healthy coping – The holidays can change routines and prevent you from using healthy coping. Try to maintain your healthy coping skills when it comes to eating, sleeping, and budgeting.
Acknowledge grieving loved ones – Attending holiday social gatherings surrounded by your community may leave you missing loved ones. Talk about lost loved ones, acknowledge missing your loved one, take care of yourself, and create traditions that include your lost loved one.

Resources Across PMH

PMH Employee Wellness Committee- The PMH Employee Wellness Committee promotes activities that keep employees well. Check out the webpage for information on celebrating our staff, healthcare worker recognition, Employee resources (Employee assistance plan, benefit plans, and BlueCross), and PMH Perks. Funding is also available through the PMH Employee Wellness Initiative. You can also send a coworker a token of appreciation for all they do by completing a Say It Card form.
Mental health resources- Seek mental health support if you need it. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call the crisis lines. For adults north of Riding Mountain, dial 1- 866-332-3030 and south of Riding Mountain, dial 1-888-379-7699. If you are under 18, dial 1-866-332-3030 or in all PMH areas, dial 1-866-403-5459.
Grief recovery- Working through grief is not something you need to do alone. There are grief support groups and resources available across Prairie Mountain Health.
CBTm for Employees- If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed and want to build skills to help you manage these feelings, there is also a program called CBTm for employees.

Canadian Mental Health Association- British Columbia Division. (2023). 15 tips for holiday peace of mind and coping with grief this festive season. https://bc.cmha.ca/news/15-tips-for-holiday-peace-of-mind-and-coping-with-holiday-grief-this-festive-season/
Canadian Mental Health Association- National Site. (2023). Five ways to protect your mental health from holiday stress. https://cmha.ca/news/five-ways-to-protect-your-mental-health-this-holiday/

Brandon’s Dinsdale Personal Care Home transfers to Prairie Mountain Health

Following collaborative discussions with the provincial government and Prairie Mountain Health, The Salvation Army completed a formal transfer of Dinsdale Lodge Personal Care Home (PCH) to Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) effective November 10, 2023. The transfer, which was initiated by the Salvation Army, was fully endorsed by the PMH Board of Directors. The move further supports the Salvation Army’s shift in focus toward other programs and community needs in the Brandon area, which are in high demand.

“On behalf of our Board, management and staff, the PMH officially extends a very warm welcome to staff of the Dinsdale PCH,” stated Lon Cullen, Chair of the PMH Board of Directors. “For many years, The Salvation Army has been a valued partner in delivering long-term care services within the health region, and we sincerely thank them for that!” Cullen said.

Prairie Mountain Health CEO Brian Schoonbaert says the transfer doesn’t impact the day-to-day operations of Dinsdale PCH.

“We are pleased to support the transfer of Dinsdale PCH to Prairie Mountain Health and have reassured staff, residents and families that PMH remains committed to providing the same quality care that was previously provided under the direction and leadership of The Salvation Army,” Schoonbaert stated.

Located in Brandon, the 60-bed Dinsdale PCH previously had an affiliate (non-devolved) relationship with PMH, where the Salvation Army separately owned and operated the Home through a service purchase agreement.

The present Dinsdale PCH was constructed in 1984/1985. It’s named after two prominent Salvation supporters and activists: Walter Dinsdale, who was an MP for the Brandon area for 31 years, and George Dinsdale, who was Walter’s father. George Dinsdale was also a Mayor of Brandon and a local MLA.

Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation Annual December Campaigns

“Under the Tree of Lights”

Christmas is fast approaching, and with it comes all the joy and happiness of the season. It is also a time of reflection and memories of loved ones. You can memorialize or honour someone special this holiday season! For a minimum $15 donation (tax receipt issued), the BRHC Foundation will:

Hang a personalized tag in memory or honour of a loved one on the “Tree of Lights” in the BRHC atrium.
Turn on the lights on the evergreens that are located in the traffic circle at the Brandon Regional Health Centre
You can choose one of the gifts, “Under the Tree of Lights,” where you would like to see your donation directed:
Gift #1 – Stellar BiPap ($9,100) – used by Respiratory Therapy for the inpatient units
Gift #2 – Two Pressure Mattresses ($15,977) for the BRHC Facility

The BRHC Foundation presents the “Gift of Flight” compliments of WestJet!

You can win a round trip flight to any regularly scheduled WestJet destination for two (2) people! (No cash value, fees, taxes, surcharges not included, blackout dates and restrictions apply). The draw will be held on Friday, December 15^th, at 2:00 p.m. in the Brandon Regional Health Centre Atrium.
Tickets (1 for $10 or 3 for $20) are available in the Foundation Office at 204- 578-4227 or by emailing [email protected]

Proceeds from the draw will be directed toward the Brandon Regional Health Centre’s Pediatric/Neonatal Intensive Care Units.

For more information on the BRHC Foundation and how you can support the Brandon Regional Health Centre, visit https://www.brhcfoundation.ca/

Time for Turnips

Some people may confuse turnips and rutabagas. The confusing thing is, depending where you’re from, turnips might be called neeps, rutabagas, or swedes. The smaller, round, white and purple root vegetables are called “white turnips”, while the larger, round, yellow root vegetables are “turnips”, “rutabagas” or “swedes”. Rutabagas are a cross between a turnip and cabbage. White turnips and rutabagas have different flavours as well.

One of the great things about turnips is that both the greens on top and the root can be eaten. The greens have a similar flavor to mustard greens and are a rich source of vitamins K, A, C, and folate. The root has a high amount of water, with some carbohydrates and a moderate amount of vitamin C. Another great thing is that it is an incredibly versatile vegetable! Use turnips any way you use a potato, and then some! Try them baked, boiled, steamed, mashed, shredded, julienned, raw, roasted, and use the greens in any dish you would use cooked spinach or collard greens.

When buying white turnips, look for turnips that are small to medium in size, turnips that feel heavy for their size, and without soft spots or wrinkles. If the greens are still attached, look for fresh looking leaves. Unlike other root vegetables, turnips should be used up while they’re fresh, as they can turn bitter and woody with age. Peeling off the skin of white turnips is optional, but yellow rutabagas need to be peeled.

Try these delicious turnip recipes

Simple Roasted Turnips (Freezer-Friendly!) – Spend With Pennies

Pan-Roasted Turnips with Greens Recipe | Kardea Brown | Food Network

Honey-Glazed Turnips, Parsnips and Pearl Onions Recipe | Food Network Kitchen | Food Network

Sheet-Pan Curried Chicken and Root Vegetables Recipe | Food Network Kitchen | Food Network

Prairie Mountain Health CEO provides retirement notice

Board of Directors begins recruitment process

The Board of Directors of Prairie Mountain Health announced today that CEO Brian Schoonbaert will be retiring effective April 5, 2024. An extensive recruitment process for a new Chief Executive Officer is now underway. In acknowledging receipt of his retirement notice at its October meeting, Board of Directors Chairperson Lon Cullen stated:

“It is with mixed emotions that the PMH Board accepted Brian Schoonbaert’s notice of retirement.
Brian’s commitment to providing quality health care and supporting all PMH staff, physicians and volunteers has always been evident. All who have worked with him will miss Brian’s positive, welcoming and genuine approach”.

Schoonbaert’s career in health care has spanned over 35 years – initially as a Finance Director for BGTW (Baldur, Glenboro, Treherne and Wawanesa), then as Vice President – Finance and Information Services for Brandon General Hospital and Brandon RHA. In 2011, he became Chief Executive Officer for Brandon RHA.

With the amalgamations of health regions in 2012, Schoonbaert assumed the role of Vice President, Finance, Capital, Support Services and Chief Operating Officer of BRHC for Prairie Mountain Health. In 2018, he was seconded to the Manitoba Transformation Management Office (TMO), leading several initiatives for the TMO. And in 2021, Schoonbaert assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer for Prairie Mountain Health.

Cullen added: “Brian is looking forward to spending time with family – his wife Mary Anne, their six children and 18 grandchildren. We thank Brian for his commitment, passion, and dedication to Prairie Mountain Health. We wish him a happy and healthy retirement!”

During Veteran’s Week we pause to remember

We pause to remember the sacrifices and efforts of those who have supported and protected our families, friends, neighbours and our nation.

Indigenous Veteran’s Day

November 8th is National Indigenous Veterans Day. The First Nations, Inuit and Métis of Canada have a long and proud tradition of military service to our country. Learn more.

Remembrance Day

On November 11th, it is important to take time to remember, honour and thank all veterans – At home, around the world and across generations. Read more.

PMH welcomes new Filipino health-care workers

*Treena Slate of Prairie Mountain Health, greets Shayne Salonga and Vicente Ganzon at Winnipeg International Airport October 31.*

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) warmly welcomed two new Filipino health-care workers recruited earlier this year as part of Manitoba’s Philippines Recruitment Initiative. Shayne Salonga and Vicente Ganzon arrived at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport on October 31, tired but excited for the next steps in their journey.

Salonga, a registered nurse (RN), will head to Russell to work at the Russell Health Centre. Ganzon, a health care aide (HCA), will relocate to Swan River to work in long-term care.

“Our government is working to build up health care teams, to improve patient care and achieve better work-life balance for front-line staff as part of our commitment to improve health care for all Manitobans,” stated Uzoma Asagwara, Minister of Health, Seniors and Long Term Care.

“Recruitment and retention are essential and we’re taking steps to make our health system a supportive and attractive place for skilled professionals to work. We’re pleased to welcome new nurses and health care aides from the Philippines and know they will quickly feel at home here.”

*Vicente Ganzon dons a Swan Valley Stampeders hockey jersey in Swan River.*

PMH expects to repeat the warm welcome offered to Ganzon and Salonga many times in the coming year as more skilled health-care workers and their families arrive from the Philippines destined for work in PMH communities that include Brandon, Dauphin, Ste. Rose, Hamiota, Hartney, Minnedosa, Neepawa, Russell, Swan River and Virden.

*Salonga looks over the spacious view in Russell*

“We’re very pleased to welcome Shayne and Vicente to Canada, Manitoba and our health care region!” stated Brian Schoonbaert, CEO of Prairie Mountain Health.”

“As they begin new chapters in their lives, it must be exciting in one sense and filled with some uncertainty in the next. We will work with our dedicated staff, health partners and stakeholders to ensure their transition and mentorship and the transition of other anticipated arrivals goes as smoothly as possible”.

“PMH is pleased to be part of efforts to recruit new health-care workers to Manitoba. Special thanks to Larissa Kominko, Recruitment Manager and Treena Slate, Regional Lead Acute Care and Chief Nursing Officer for their ongoing work to ensure these new members of our care teams are welcomed and oriented to our health system.”

International Day for People Impacted by Suicide Loss | Nov 18

Image by Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention

International Day for People Impacted by Suicide Loss (November 18th) is a day where people impacted by suicide loss, no matter where they live, can come together as communities to find and offer comfort and to remember their loved ones as they share stories of loss, healing, and hope.

For Brandon and the surrounding area, the Brandon Suicide Prevention Implementation Network (SPIN) has observed this day by collecting cards and having them on display. The cards hold messages commemorating a loved one who has died by suicide, and/or a message of hope to those that have been impacted by suicide loss.

This year, SPIN has attached a fillable card for members of our community to complete.

Once you have filled out your card and sent it back to [email protected], your message will be transferred onto a physical card and will join the display of cards that have been collected in the past.

The physical cards will be on display in the Health Studies Building at Brandon University the week of November 13^th.

Also watch our social media platforms for a video where the facilitators of the Brandon and Area Suicide Bereavement Support Group will share the completed board and read a few of the messages from the community.

You can find additional resources and virtual events on the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention (CASP) website.

Follow Brandon SPIN on Facebook and Instagram for more information.

Brandon Wheat Kings Help PMH Spread the Warmth

Thank you!

Prairie Mountain Health would like to thank the following people and businesses for helping make our Spread the Warmth campaign a success at the November 17th Brandon Wheat Kings game!

Thank you to all attendees who brought donations! We collected new mitts, gloves, toques, socks and underwear to help our more vulnerable population during the cold winter months. The items collected will be given out to our various programs and services, such as our Emergency Departments, 7th Street Health Access Centre and Public and Mental Health offices.

Thank you to everyone who purchased pucks for the Chuck-A-Puck event; we raised $760 that will be used to purchase hygiene products and other necessities to help people in the community.

Thank you to the following businesses for their generous donations toward the Spread the Warmth prize pack that was given to lucky winner Emmy!

Brandon Regional Health Centre Gift Shop
Brandon Home Hardware Building Centre
CAA Brandon
Heritage CO-OP
Komfort Kitchen Brandon
Landmark Cinemas
Shoppers Mall Brandon
Smitten Brandon
Treeforte
Victoria Inn Brandon

Thank you to our volunteers for helping at the game!

Congratulation Emmy on winning the prize pack!

PMH Capital Construction Project Update

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) continues to move forward on several major construction and renovation projects in partnership with Manitoba Health and Shared Health. The following is a brief update as of November 1, 2023.

Brandon Regional Health Centre (BRHC)

Construction to expand and renovate clinical spaces within the BRHC campus is going well with work on the new Critical Care bed tower addition underway. Once completed the entire project will feature:

a new 16-bed Intensive Care Unit – main level.
approximately 30 additional medical beds on – the 2^nd floor.
3^rd floor – mechanical space.
4^th floor – shell space for potential future expansion.

The anticipated substantial completion for the Critical Care bed tower project is early 2026. As well, there is a planned renovation to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Western Manitoba Cancer Centre

Work continues on the expanded and renovated WMCC, which will serve as a regional cancer hub, providing enhanced cancer services for patients across western Manitoba. The project includes:

7,000-sq.-ft. expansion and renovation of existing space, including additional exam rooms and treatment spaces.
space for a ‘Centre of Hope’ for counselling and recovery patients to have additional support and resources.
second medical linear accelerator, used for delivering external beam radiation treatments to patients with cancer.

The anticipated substantial project completion is the spring of 2024.

Neepawa Health Centre

The new hospital is being built east of Neepawa on the north side of the Yellowhead highway near the Lions Campground.

It will be nearly double the size of the existing hospital, and will better serve patients from this broader western Manitoba geographic area. Features of the new health centre will include:

60 acute care inpatient beds, up from 35 at the current Neepawa site.
an expanded emergency department designed to best practice standards that include treatment and assessment rooms, trauma rooms and an ambulance bay.
adding a hemodialysis suite with nine dialysis stations.
enhanced space for a number of other programs, such as surgery, diagnostics, and palliative care, as well as outpatient services like chemotherapy (6 treatment stations).

The anticipated substantial completion right now is sometime in 2026.

Dauphin Regional Health Centre

Renovations to the Dauphin Regional Health Centre (DRHC) are converting temporary Emergency Department space to enhanced patient care areas and a further increase in hospital inpatient capacity. This includes:

a new Endoscopy suite will relocate all endoscopy procedures out of the existing operating room, further free up operating space, and increase surgical capacity.
a new Chemotherapy unit, relocating the existing unit on the hospital’s third floor to the main floor.
adding nine additional inpatient beds (seven on medicine, two on surgery).

Phase 1 anticipated completion (Endoscopy/Chemotherapy) is expected in December 2023.

Phase 2 completion (hospital in-patient renovations) is anticipated in the summer of 2024.

Killarney, Virden and Souris Health Centres

Three additional Emergency Department (ED) renovations in Virden, Killarney and Souris are complete. We are currently preparing to enter the new space. This involved:

dedicated space for registration and triage for those attending the ED. This will provide greater privacy but also better sight lines for staff to view patients and the waiting area.
refreshed treatment spaces (e.g.: new paint, flooring, etc.).
improved wayfinding for those arriving at the Emergency Department and for those coming to visit inpatients.

The new ED spaces will officially open in November 2023.

Russell Health Centre

Construction is well underway on the building addition to expand the cancer care unit at Russell Health Centre. Work on the $2.5 million project began in late spring and is anticipated to be completed in the spring of 2024.

Once complete, the project will add another 3,300 sq.-ft. to the health centre’s existing CancerCare Manitoba chemotherapy treatment space and include:

replacement of the existing nursing station and medication storage area;
creation of a dedicated patient washroom, nourishment area, and a small waiting area;
improved patient privacy.

PMH has collaborated with health partners and stakeholders for the necessary building planning, construction costs and associated timelines for this important capital project. The regional health authority will contribute annual operating costs for the expansion, including staffing and supplies.

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