Make your donation count double between now and May 31 with the provincial donation matching opportunity. The Lending Cupboard is committed to assisting our community with needed medical equipment and supplies during COVID-19 in a safe way. TLC is open by appointment only during regular business hours Monday/Wednesday/Friday from 9 am-4:30 pm. To reserve equipment and book a pick-up appointment call 403-356-1678, messages will be returned as soon as possible. Returns are not being accepted at this time. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

The province will match, dollar for dollar, donations to charities and non-profits up to $2 million for donations made between April 15 through May 31, and organizations will be waiving any administration fees associated with the campaign. Alberta’s charities and non-profits and the gift of those who donate is an integral part of what makes us Albertan. By matching, we amplify the generosity of Albertans and boost the capacity of community organizations working tirelessly to make sure vulnerable Albertans are cared for during the pandemic.

Blood and blood products are a critical part of everyday medical care including surgeries, emergency trauma care, cancer treatment and much more. Nobody ever anticipates needing blood transfusions. However, every 60 seconds someone in Canada needs blood. In fact, half of all Canadians will either need blood or know someone who will. In Red Deer, up to 1,300 blood donors are needed each month to meet the needs of patients locally. Our donor centre is located at #5, 5020 68 Street and open Tuesday to Saturday. Book now at blood.ca.

COVID-19 has added a layer of complexity to domestic and intimate partner violence, due to the vulnerability of families in our community, and isolation requirements. PLEASE KNOW THAT YOU ARE NOT ALONE. With our toll-free Crisis Line (1-888-346-5643) and text line 403-506-0485, we can provide crisis intervention, emotional support, and safety planning. We can connect and care for you, even in isolation. This resource is available 24 hours a day. Do not hesitate if you or your loved one requires resources.

Prolonged stress may cause poor digestion, skin breakout, toxins in your blood, weakened immunity, organ concerns, and many other physical issues. Jin Shin Jyutsu (JSJ) can help reduce the effects and smooth emotions. Did you know that Robin McKay posts helpful JSJ hold pictures and videos on her Energy Effects Facebook page? You can quickly access and try these self-help holds. Robin’s also available via private message or phone and is currently NOT charging for either of these services. Got pets? She can also teach you to apply JSJ holds to your animal family, too.

Fred Rogers once said, “We live in a world in which we need to share responsibility. It’s easy to say, “It’s not my child, not my community, not my world, not my problem.” Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes.” The time for shared responsibility is now, so I’m pleased in this edition to bring attention to many local agencies, organizations, and resources that work together to serve the vulnerable and the broader community. Your help is appreciated in getting this information out to your friends and family.

Most diets create a large calorie deficit trying to achieve rapid weight loss. This leads to fatigue, mental fog, hair loss, poor sleep and feeling cold all the time. We can only follow a no fat, no carb, no sugar, no fun, no anything diet for so long. No one will do anything forever that feels significantly unpleasant. Before you start any diet ask yourself, “Can I see myself eating like this in 12 months from now?” If the answer is no — then the diet you’re thinking about starting isn’t sustainable.

Issues associated with hearing loss can combine to create a higher risk for COVID-19. Communication challenges in healthcare settings and often lower levels of health literacy can increase the risk for medication and treatment errors. Loneliness, anxiety and depression from social isolation, a feeling often heightened in those with hearing loss, weaken the immune system, making them more susceptible. Attending to your hearing challenges now can be a step toward improved health and wellbeing. Hearing assessments and services are still available during this time, by appointment only, at your local Eyes and Ears Clinic.

If you are having ANY issues with your health, call your family doctor. They can help with whatever ails you, not just COVID-19. For life threating emergencies, visit the emergency department or call 9-1-1 IMMEDIATELY. Red Deer PCN is here to support your health and wellness. Tap into the support available through PCN. Mental Health Counsellors are available for therapy and other concerns. (For crisis, though, call CMHA 780.482.4357 or 403.266.4357.) Registered Nurses (Family Nurses) are available for chronic disease and other health related questions. Lastly, Kinesiologists can help you set up at home exercise programs and social connections. Call 403.343.9100 for info.