Lung cancer is now the most diagnosed cancer in Canada, with 85% of lung cancer cases being caused by smoking. It also has one of the lowest survival rates: just 17% of people diagnosed with lung cancer survive for 5 years or more. And yet, despite the risks associated with smoking, it can be incredibly difficult to quit. In fact, quitting is one of the biggest challenges a smoker will face, but it is also one of the best ways to reduce the risk of cancer. Talk to your pharmacist about available options to help you finally kick the deadly habit.

For someone with hearing loss, social situations are challenging. Help improve communication with them by following these simple tips: • Gain their attention before you begin talking. • Speak naturally & don’t shout. Speak distinctly, at a normal rate, using pauses to give the person time to process speech. • Keep your hands away from your face while talking. • Avoid sudden changes of topic. And if the subject is changed, tell them what you are talking about now. • Seat them where they can see as many faces as possible. • Check in. If you think your listener may not be following, convey the information again in shorter, clearer sentences.

My teachers told me I’d never amount to much because I procrastinate so much. ? I told them, “Just you wait!”

Actions often speak louder than words. Children notice inconsistencies between what we say and what we do. If we preach kindness but don’t practice it, they may struggle to grasp its true value. When our actions align with our words, we reinforce our values and set a strong example. World Smile Day® reminds us that even small acts of kindness can make a big impact. By committing to kindness daily, we improve our well-being, model positive behavior, and help create a more connected world. So, let’s make a conscious effort to spread kindness—through our words and actions—and inspire others to do the same.

The Power of a Smile and the Ripple Effect of Kindness

Every year, on the first Friday of October, the world celebrates World Smile Day®. The inspiration for this day comes from the iconic smiley face, created in 1963 by Harvey Ball, a commercial artist from Massachusetts. Over time, the smiley face became a global symbol of goodwill and positivity. However, as it gained popularity, Ball grew concerned about its over-commercialization and the loss of its original meaning. To reclaim its purpose, he established World Smile Day®, encouraging people to focus on smiles and kind acts – focus on what unites us: our shared humanity.

Kindness is a powerful force that benefits both the giver and the receiver. Studies show that acts of kindness trigger the release of oxytocin, endorphins and serotonin, natural chemicals that improve mood and reduce stress. These hormones foster feelings of warmth and connection, meaning regular acts of kindness can lead to long-lasting improvements in mental health; reducing anxiety and depression while promoting a sense of purpose and belonging.
The ripple effect of kindness extends beyond individual well-being. When we are kind to others, they are more likely to pass on that kindness, creating a positive feedback loop that strengthen our community. In this way, small acts of kindness can contribute to a more compassionate and supportive society.

Children learn from both our actions and our words. The kindness we show—whether through simple gestures like offering a smile or more significant efforts like helping a neighbor or a stranger—teaches them that kindness is a powerful way to impact the world. Equally important is how we communicate our values. When we explain why we help others and speak with empathy and compassion, we reinforce the importance of these qualities.
Our actions, and the language we use, shapes our children’s understanding of the world and their own self-worth. As they witness kindness and hear us discuss its significance, they learn to value empathy and compassion. This dual influence helps them develop emotional intelligence, confidence, and a positive outlook on life. In essence, the kindness they see and the values we express through our everyday language guide their self-concept and interactions with the world.

Join us on Saturday, October 21st, for the “Sugar & Spice & Notoriously Nice” Festival of Trees! Get ready to return to the Roaring 20s and enter Saskatchewan’s largest speakeasy for an unforgettable, immersive prohibition-era experience. Indulge in a decadent Italian buffet that promises to delight your taste buds. The excitement continues with an interactive live and silent auction then hit the dance floor and showcase your notorious moves to the electrifying sounds of Mascara. Every dollar raised stays in Moose Jaw, supporting a new surgical service for our community: bronchoscopy. Tickets on sale at sasktix.evenue.net