Some people get a bit nervous about the idea of going to the dentist. As a result of progress in diagnosis and treatment, the process has become much more comfortable. Tell your dentist and the dental staff if you’re feeling tense or anxious. They will understand and will adapt the treatment to your needs. Choose a time for your dental visit when you’re less likely to be rushed or under pressure. If the sound of the drill bothers you, listen to your favorite music on your phone. You can also relax by simply visualizing yourself somewhere you feel relaxed.

Local families in our community count on SOS programs for support, social interaction, education and enjoyment. COVID-19 restrictions have been hard on families. SOS is looking forward to restarting in-house programs for children, youth and families this fall and winter. Kids can connect with old and new friends and take part in fun activities. Parents can have a comfortable place to recharge, make important social contacts and watch their kids play in a fun and safe environment. Support these vital community programs by donating to the SOS Project Rebuild Campaign.

The annual Hike for Hospice takes place on September 11th at Westwood Lake Park. Walk, run or hike the 1km or 6km option at your own pace. Register by August 11 to be entered into the Early Bird Draw. Funds raised stay local. Gather your family and friends – walk to honor the memory of your loved ones. Nanaimo Hospice believes that everyone deserves support, regardless of age, means or culture. Volunteers and professional staff offer free programs resources & education. See their website NanaimoHospice.com/Events for more information and to register for the Hike.

Expect the unexpected with the return of the Vancouver Island Symphony’s popular Summer Pop Up Concert Series featuring three VIS Ensembles performing works from all genres of music including Classical, Jazz, Latin, Traditional and Canadiana favourites. These concerts continue in August and take place in beautiful garden settings from Yellowpoint to the Comox Valley featuring: # 1: VIS Back Row Brass Quintet, #2: VIS String Quartet & French Horn #3: the Marko Paolo Trio (Flute, Violin/ Accordion, Double Bass). Get your tickets now.

Bluetooth technology allows you to connect two electronic devices without using a cord. Bluetooth hearing aids connects your hearing devices to other devices like your smartphone or TV. They stream sound directly from a technology source into your ear. When watching television or using the computer, the data transfers to your hearing aid from the monitor using radio waves. There’s no need for headphones or a separate Bluetooth headset. Similarly, talking on the phone is now easier than ever. You don’t have to hold the phone up to your ear to hear and enjoy your conversation.

If you take multiple medications, your pharmacist offers solutions that can help you manage them.*Synchronized Refill Dates – Adjusting quantities of medications to coordinate refill dates so all can be refilled at one time. *Blister packaging to arrange your medications in a weekly or monthly schedule. *Pre-Authorized Refills – Receive notifications when it is time to renew your medication. *Extension of Expired Refills – Your pharmacist may be able to renew your prescription if it expires before you can see your doctor. Consider booking a Medication Review at the Medicine Shoppe in Parksville.

Abundance means different things to different people. Often times we think of abundance as having a lot of money or wealth. Abundance is so much more than a healthy bank account. Abundance is a Feeling; an appreciation of life, joy and strength of body, mind and spirit! If you FEEL abundant, you will be abundant! If you aren’t feeling it, a Certified Body/Emotion Code Practitioner can help you release any unprocessed negative (trapped) emotions. These emotions can keep you feeling that you don’t deserve abundance in your life.

Are you a parent or grandparent looking to teach your young ones this summer about giving and sharing? Why not involve them in the planning and running of their own fundraiser? It can serve as an important teaching opportunity on how to organize and launch an activity. The pride they will feel knowing they are helping others, will leave a lasting impression about the importance of contributing to community. That is how community is strengthened, one act of kindness at a time. Find out more at www.sosd69.com/community-fundraising.