CENTRAL ZONE NEWS ZONE YOUR HEALTH CARE IN YOUR COMMUNITY 2012 OCTOBER

PLACES FOR THE HEART TAKING CARE OF SENIORS IS A LOT OF FUN AND I’VE BEEN Photo by Heather Kipling | DOING IT SINCE I WAS LITTLE. Health care aide Girlie Sareno takes time to chat with Edna Ritten, a resident at Sunset I LOVE SENIORS AND I GET Manor in Innisfail. Sunset Manor is just one of several centres across Central Zone that “ offer a variety of home-like living options for seniors while providing them the security of ALONG WELL WITH THEM having trained support staff at hand. PAGE 3 — Girlie Sareno

Your total satisfaction MESSAGE TO ALL ALBERTANS is our No. 1 goal orthy goals should be provincewide health system is that we now have Albertan Satisfaction. ambitious. With that in the leanest administration in health care in . Our physician-led provincewide Strategic Clinical Wmind, I have one goal That makes us unique and, I would argue, better Networks that tie our organization together are one for Health Services (AHS) positioned than any other health system to let our of the most important innovations in health care and in my time as Chair of the Board: local leaders focus on what they do best: provide another value proposition that makes AHS unique in Stephen Total Albertan Satisfaction. health care and focus on innovation. Canada. Their task is to use innovation to reduce wait Lockwood It goes without saying that Every zone – or hospital, or care centre, for that times and increase access and make sure every part patient and family satisfaction are matter – has to be responsible for making the of the province benefits, no matter where you live, no Board Chair a high priority. But to get there, decisions that make sense for their area and their matter how big or small your community. It has to be we also need the total satisfaction patients. That’s part of what total satisfaction is about, that simple. of our physicians and staff and our health leaders because in that environment, innovation, process Let’s also be clear on this point: we are not across the province. We need total satisfaction in our improvement and increased productivity will happen. proposing or planning a restructuring of Alberta five zones and all of our communities. Why are people drawn to health care, or any job for Health Services. But we are going to continue to learn How are we going to do that? that matter? They want to make a difference. They and to refine the system and empower employees We are already well down the road with the want to feel respected, trusted and to be excited to to move faster. Can we improve? Absolutely. acceleration in the past year of zone-based come to work. They want to do what they do best. That’s true of any organization. And in the process, leadership and decision-making. But we can go much We intend to let them do just that. we will continue to reduce bureaucracy. Nothing further, by unleashing what I see as a lot of pent-up It’s up to our Board and senior management to kills innovation and job satisfaction more than enthusiasm and creativity. create that culture and environment, to decide who bureaucracy. It starts with a basic question: who’s in the best is in the best position to deliver health care and then The health system is more stable now than it has place to make a decision? It’s usually not head office, get out of the way so they can do their work. Above been in the better part of the last decade, and credit and that’s not a criticism of AHS. In the early days all, we’ve got to trust and challenge our people and for that goes to both frontline staff and physicians of our organization, it was necessary to centralize a create an atmosphere where making decisions is and health leaders. This year’s staff surveys show number of services and wipe out hundreds of millions second-nature. satisfaction has improved dramatically. We are of dollars in wasted duplication of administration of Make decisions and focus on patients. Make it making progress on achieving performance targets the former health regions. We are well past that. easier for patients and families to understand and and we want to accelerate that. Patient satisfaction is To borrow a business term, one of the most navigate the health system when they need it. It also improving. important value propositions in creating a needs to be that simple. It has to be that simple. Total Continued on Page 2 PAGE 2 L O C A L L E A D E R S

Nurse, paramedic, volunteer CRISIS TO CALM – these are just a few of the hats this man wears. Then IS HIS NORM there’s the life-support training Story by Adam Eisenbarth | Photo by Tannis Shaw program he helped launch ...

hen trouble happens, Norm Martineau Martineau has teamed with his close friend is ready to get to work. and colleague Dale Bayliss to launch this training W A licensed practical nurse and program that contributes all funds raised to the paramedic, Martineau has become a mainstay Heart and Stroke Foundation. at the Health Centre, with 26 years of “We provide Advance Cardiac Life Support Zone leaders: Medical Director service. training for fellow medical professionals, helping Dr. Evan Lundall, left, and Kerry Bales, “Whether it’s a child’s face going from crying to them to further develop life-saving skills for Senior Vice-President, Central Zone. sleeping, or its parents’ faces going from panic patients,” says Martineau. to calm, having the knowledge that you have “It prepares them to deal with sudden cardiac CONNECTING made a difference is what makes this job so events such as stroke, heart attack and cardiac special,” Martineau says. arrest.” COMMUNITIES An active member of his community, Martineau The program is a way of honouring both The direct connection we have to the truly enjoys helping out, whether it’s at work, or his father, and Bayliss’s father, each of whom communities that make up Alberta Health in his various other roles. passed away after suffering a heart attack. Services (AHS) Central Zone is important to “Norm is an advocate for patients, families “I had been thinking of different ways to honour the work we do each and every day. and his colleagues. He handles every situation my father and, when Dale came to me asking if We connect not only through our facilities, with the utmost respect and compassion,” says I would do the course, I didn’t hesitate,” recalls programs, services, staff and physicians, site manager Melody Henriksen. “He truly is the Martineau. “As long as there is interest, we will but also through our community partners, poster boy for ’ values deliver the courses.” volunteers, health advisory councils, and we are so blessed to have him on our Martineau’s passion for his work comes from foundations and auxiliaries. Each plays team.” his father, whom he honours to this day. an important role. We all live and work in When Martineau is not working at the health “He always said, ‘if you enjoy what you do, you the communities we serve; we call central centre, he’s often volunteering as a medic for the never really have to work a day in your life.’ Alberta home. Living in the communities Tofield Fire Department. “I can honestly say I love what I do.” n we serve means we also know what makes But perhaps closest to his heart is his work as each one unique. a volunteer instructor for the Give Back Program. A one-size-fits-all approach isn’t effective HAVING THE when it comes to meeting health needs. KNOWLEDGE THAT While one community may be recruiting for additional physicians, another may be YOU HAVE MADE A recruiting for additional allied staff. While DIFFERENCE IS WHAT one has an aging population, another may “ MAKES THIS JOB SO be seeing a trend in the opposite direction, with more young families moving in. SPECIAL It is the ties we have with each community — Norm Martineau, left that help us plan appropriately to meet these diverse needs. At the same time, we also have the benefit of being able to tap into the expertise of health colleagues from right across the province. It’s a great combination – one that aims to provide the best care for all Albertans. To learn more about AHS Central Zone and the communities we serve, please visit us online at www.albertahealthservices. ca/5825.asp. We hope you enjoy this issue of Zone News. Dr. Evan Lundall Kerry Bales FINANCIAL CONTROLS WILL BE STRENGTHENED Continued from Page 1 unless given a reason to do otherwise. They’ve the decisions what they think needs to be done and I’ve been asked and expect I will continue to earned and deserve our respect. by empowering employees to drive us toward a best- be asked about the past and the decisions of our We are also going to listen to both our supporters in-class health system. predecessors. How that helps the health system and our critics. They may well have good ideas. They It’s not going to happen overnight; it won’t be today is not clear to me and is not our priority. We may be surprised to hear that we may well agree on easy and not all Albertans will always agree with our are moving forward. The province has released its many issues and, I’m not afraid to say as such. decisions, but it will get done. Let’s also remember Travel, Meal and Hospitality Expenses Policy. I have I’ll state this for the record: we are a publicly funded that last month the province opened a new hospital in recommended that the Board immediately adopt it. health delivery system. A policy change in this regard – the South Health Campus. Clinic But again, we will go further: within AHS, our financial is the responsibility of the province. Alberta Health in Edmonton is on the horizon this fall. In fact, across controls will be made as strong or stronger than any Services exists to deliver health care. Everything we do – the province, new capacity is being added and we are public organization anywhere in Canada. everything – needs to be focused on that singular goal. upgrading what we have now. In my mind it comes down to integrity. I have Today’s health system needs to serve us now and That’s what matters to most Albertans. That’s what great confidence in health care providers – and for years to come. So we will debate the issues, the Total Albertan Satisfaction means to me. I’m going to that includes our senior health leaders. It’s too easy options and alternatives. As a Board, we will make do the best I can to get us there. n to criticize out of context and make unfounded decisions – including tough decisions. We will not sit Stephen Lockwood, Chair assumptions. I will support them and stand by them back. The key is to start by asking those closest to Alberta Health Services Board

Total Albertan Satisfaction Know your health care options. Visit www.albertahealthservices.ca I N Y O U R Z O N E PAGE 3

Innisfail’s Sunset Manor residents Ken and Ann Muss, above, chat with health care provider Lori Meyn, above right. Inset: health care aide Girlie Sareno, left, lends a helping hand to Sunset Manor resident Edna Ritten. SENIORS’ SUITE DREAMS Communities across are opening rooms with a view to support seniors with health care issues, while allowing them privacy and independence

Story and photos by Heather Kipling |

cross the Central Zone, new supportive Supportive living offers residents a home- wider area as well.” living spaces are providing more living like environment that promotes privacy and Gord Van der Eerden, Executive Director with Aoptions to seniors and adults with independence, along with the peace of mind of Chantelle Group, agrees. disabilities, giving them a place to call home that knowing licensed practical nurses and health “We’re excited about the addition to our facility will meet their health care needs. care aides are on site, 24 hours a day. and serving the needs of the community,” he Over the past few months, the communities Depending on an individual’s needs, they can says, referring to 32 additional spaces that of , , Innisfail be assessed to receive Supportive Living Level 3, opened at Sunset Manor in Innisfail. “They give and have seen new spaces come Supportive Living Level 4, or Supportive Living our seniors more living options, while helping on stream in facilities in partnership with Alberta Level 4 Dementia Care. Each level provides the them to remain healthy and as active as possible.” Health Services (AHS), and more spaces are in right amount of care in the right environment to And Sunset Manor residents Ken and Ann the works in Lacombe and Stettler. best meet individual needs. Muss agree. “These new spaces broaden the options “The opening of new suites expands the “It’s comforting for us and our family to know available for seniors care and housing services range of continuing-care options and services we have caring, competent staff within the ring that will help meet growing and changing needs available to the community,” says Doug Mills, of a buzzer,” says Ken. of our communities,” says Kerry Bales, Senior Executive Director with Points West Living, which And Sunset Manor staff say their work is more Vice-President for AHS Central Zone. operates supportive living facilities in a number than just a job – it’s a pleasure. “These new spaces, operated in partnership of communities in the province, including in “Taking care of seniors is a lot of fun and I’ve with dedicated providers, are part of Alberta Vegreville where 12 new suites were opened this been doing it since I was little,” says health care Health Services’ plan to ensure we provide summer. “This kind of assistance is valuable to aide Girlie Sareno. “I love seniors and I get along Albertans with the right care in the right place.” our seniors, not just in Vegreville, but from the well with them.” n

PLACES TO CALL HOME ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE VEGREVILLE INNISFAIL DRAYTON VALLEY

A wing of 10 supportive living suites More seniors are now able to get Thirty-two additional spaces Continuum Health Care, which at The Good Samaritan Clearwater round-the-clock care following opened in late July at Sunset Manor. owns and operates Sunrise Village, Centre has been renovated to the opening of 12 new supportive Of those, 15 are for support of has constructed a new 68-bed accommodate individuals requiring living suites at Heritage House. The individuals with dementia, 17 are facility in which 16 beds will provide a higher level of care than previously new suites can support adults with for adults with disabilities, seniors supportive living, which offers offered. The secured wing provides disabilities, seniors with complex with complex health problems, and help with daily living and health 24-hour, on-site scheduled and health problems, and individuals individuals with mild to moderate care needs over a 24-hour period. unscheduled professional and who have mild to moderate cognitive impairment needing Service includes personal care, personal care and support, cognitive impairment needing help assistance with daily personal housing, meals, housekeeping, provided by licensed practical with daily personal care needs, such care needs, such as toileting, linen laundry service, recreation nurses and health care aides. Call as toileting, medication, hygiene and medication, hygiene and mobility. and 24-hour safety and emergency 403.845.6033. mobility. Call 780.603.0853. Call 403.227.8200. response. Call 780.542.5572.

Interested in a career in health care? Visit www.albertahealthservices.ca Total Albertan Satisfaction PAGE 4 A T Y O U R S E R V I C E

SERVICES IN YOUR COMMUNITY THE MORE PEOPLE WHO GET INFLUENZA IMMUNIZATIONS THEIR ANNUAL When you get immunized for influenza, you’re protecting yourself, your family, and INFLUENZA your community from getting sick. Alberta IMMUNIZATION, Health Services provides THE LESS influenza immunization, free of charge, for all TRANSMISSION OF Albertans six months of ILLNESS WE SEE age and older, starting Oct. 15. For more — Dr. Gerry Predy, info, including local Alberta Health Services’ clinic schedules and Senior Medical Officer of Health locations, visit www. albertahealthservices.ca or call Health Link toll- free at 1.866.408.LINK (5465).

TIME FOR A NEW TRADITION: FOOD SAFETY TRAINING Do you need to take food safety training and obtain a food safety certificate? AHS TAKE A SHOT AT HEALTH offers food safety training to the public. For dates, times, and locations of courses Getting your influenza vaccine isn’t just about protecting yourself near you, visit www.albertahealthservices. against the bug. It’s also about protecting your family, friends and ca/3151.asp and choose “Central Zone,” or co-workers – basically the whole community call 403.356.6366.

Story by Shannon Evans | Photo by Colin Zak QUITCORE utumn is the time of year when cozy “When you get immunized, you aren’t only A free AHS program that provides traditions – from Thanksgiving dinners to protecting yourself from influenza,” explains Albertans the tools and skills they need Aback-to-school sweaters – are celebrated, Dr. Gerry Predy, AHS Senior Medical Officer of to quit using tobacco. Led by trained and routines resumed. Health. “You’re also protecting your loved ones, cessation professionals, QuitCore When it comes to your health, the October neighbours, and our communities. teaches tobacco users how to develop launch of Alberta’s annual influenza immunization “It’s pretty simple: the more people who get a plan to quit, while addressing recovery program is one tradition that all Albertans can their annual influenza immunization, the less symptoms, managing stress and, ultimately, and should celebrate, simply by falling into the transmission of illness we see, and the healthier preventing relapse. Offered in more than 20 routine of getting immunized every year. we all are.” communities. For more information or to This year’s influenza immunization program Uncertain about adopting influenza register for a session in your area, call toll- kicks off on Oct. 15. immunization as an annual tradition? free 1.866.710.QUIT (7848). Once again, the influenza vaccine will be made “Also simple,” says Predy. “We call it an available, free of charge, through dedicated annual immunization for a reason: to maintain influenza immunization clinics, as well as some your immunity, and be protected for the season ENVIRONMENTAL PUBLIC pharmacist and physician offices, around the ahead, you need to be immunized every year.” HEALTH: PERSONAL SERVICES province. For more info on this year’s program, visit Concerned about the safety of a tattoo All Albertans six months of age and older are www.albertahealthservices.ca/influenza.asp, parlour, spa or salon? Public health eligible to receive the vaccine. And all Albertans – or call Health Link Alberta at 1.866.408.LINK inspectors review plans for new personal- of all ages – benefit from immunization. (5465). n service businesses, approve facilities prior to opening, conduct inspections to ensure safe practises are followed, and investigate WE’RE ONLINE AND ON SITE any complaints from clients. Visit www. Every year, Alberta Health Services works Twitter chat: @AHS_media; Oct. 10 from albertahealthservices.ca/eph.asp to contact hard to ensure that the influenza vaccine itself, 10:30-11:30 a.m. the Environmental Public Health Program as well as info about the vaccine and illness, • Follow Predy’s weekly influenza blog: near you. is easily accessible to all Albertans. launching mid-October. Check www. As the tools many Albertans use to albertahealthservices.ca/influenza.asp for communicate and access information evolve, details. MALL-WALKING IN CAMROSE so too does the AHS Influenza Program. • Access clinic schedules on-the-go using Mall-walking is a community program As always, this year Albertans can continue our new mobile Clinic Finder Tool. Available suitable for older adults or people who to find weekly clinic schedules in local through the AHS app, and AHS website using would benefit from the positive effects newspapers and through Health Link. your mobile device. of low-impact exercise. Mall-walking is We’ll also continue to remind you about • Check out the improved desktop version of an easy way to exercise and to practise immunization through the radio, magazines, the Clinic Finder Tool, available through www. a healthy lifestyle. The program is free movie screens, your favourite websites, and albertahealthservices.ca/influenza.asp. and offers a safe, climate-controlled local grocery stores. • Learn more about AHS and social media at: environment with level ground to facilitate Additionally, this year, we invite you to: www.albertahealthservices.ca/socialmedia. easy walking. Call 780.678.3400 for more • Join Dr. Gerry Predy for a one-hour influenza asp. information.

Total Albertan Satisfaction Do you have concerns about your health? Visit www.albertahealthservices.ca H E A L T H C A R E H E R O E S PAGE 5 CATASTROPHE SPURS COURAGE VISIT US ONLINE • The Alberta Health Services website, Curtis Anderson’s life changed in mere moments a decade ago in www.albertahealthservices.ca, is your a horrific bull-riding accident. But that hasn’t stopped him from online source for health care information, picking up the reins of life and moving forward ... services, news and more. Check us out! Story by Belinda J. Snow | Photo by Jim Huse SUCCESS STORIES Read stories and watch videos about the s a bull rider, Curtis Anderson knew what difference in the lives of some families who have new programs and services, leading-edge it took to get the job done. He had the financial barriers preventing them from spending technology and groundbreaking research Atraining, the experience, and the support time with their loved ones in rehabilitation. that AHS is doing to improve the lives of to succeed. When he was confronted with a life- “Curtis knows the value of family and Albertans, no matter where they live. See the altering brain injury, he and his family brought the community and their importance in recovery,” “News and Events” section of our website same ambition and drive to his recovery. says Brenda McGillis, the Alberta Health Services and click the “Success Stories” link. It happened back in June 2002, at the Ponoka social worker in Waterton House who worked Stampede. While competing in a bull-riding with Anderson and his family during his stay at RESTAURANT INSPECTIONS competition, Anderson’s brain and life were HJCBI. Our public health inspectors work with changed in a split-second when he lost his “I have heard many stories of the great support restaurants so that you, your family and balance and received two forceful blows to his that not only Curtis’ family has provided, but friends can dine out safely. You can view head as it collided with the bull’s skull. also from other people in his life – his home restaurant inspection reports in your area by Quickly transported to Edmonton, Anderson community and his cowboy community. Curtis searching “restaurant inspections” on our was in critical condition for three weeks at the visits the program whenever he is in Ponoka – website. University of Alberta Hospital. When he regained sometimes just to say hi and other times to offer consciousness, he spent three months recovering support and encouragement to others. FIND A FACILITY at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital. “His experience has validated what our You can find contact information for any Then, in October 2002, when he was medically program is all about – providing the framework AHS hospital or health care facility in Alberta stable, Anderson returned to Ponoka, but this for him to move forward in his life.” on our website. Just visit the “Find Health time, it was to the Halvar Jonson Centre for Brain When asked what the team at HJCBI did to Care” section on our website, where you Injury (HJCBI), for intensive rehabilitation. deserve his family’s ongoing engagement and can search by facility name, browse types of The facts of his brutal accident and early support, Anderson says, “They were by my side facilities, or browse what’s in your zone. recovery stand in stark contrast to the life through my recovery. Every single staff member Anderson has created with his loved ones over showed respect, and there is nothing better than TWITTER the past decade. In his post-injury life, Anderson that.” has made it his mission to give, share, and reach Anderson’s advice for others in rehabilitation? Follow your zone @AHS_CentralZone for out on behalf of others with traumatic brain “Make sure you go to your therapies. You health information and news for Central injuries (TBI). won’t get better sitting around feeling sorry for Zone residents: Anderson has warm memories of his time yourself. The best way to heal is from the inside at HJCBI; his gratitude for the interdisciplinary out.” • Struggling with leg cramps? Drinking team members who supported him, combined Anderson is an inspirational and sought-after plenty of water and stretching your muscles with his insight into the impact that rehabilitation motivational speaker. For details on his upcoming every day may help http://goo.gl/19x9r. and recovery can have on TBI survivors and speaking engagements, the “Courage Canada their families, led him and his family to create an Trail Ride,” or to contact him, go to www. • Home should be a place to breathe easy. annual fundraising and awareness event. caccanada.com n Reduce allergens and improve air ventilation Since its inception in 2004, some of the funds for a healthier home http://goo.gl/x3xtu. raised from the “Courage Canada Trail Ride” YOU WON’T GET have been donated to HJCBI, and are used to • Kids and pets can be a fun combination, purchase therapy equipment, but also to make a BETTER SITTING but stay safe by preparing pets and children AROUND FEELING for interaction http://goo.gl/w2qez. SORRY FOR “ Take charge of your health and follow @ YOURSELF. THE AHS_behealthy for information about BEST WAY TO HEAL family health, disease prevention, nutrition, IS FROM THE INSIDE AHS wellness initiatives and much more: OUT • #Youth #depression is more common — Curtis Anderson, left, brain injury than you might think. Know the signs and survivor and motivational speaker where to get help. http://bit.ly/OvwTwD #abhealth.

• What is a #healthy #weight? Find the answer at http://bit.ly/p0EgvQ #abhealth. FACEBOOK

• Whether you’re an established professional or a new grad, a career in health care is rewarding because what you do really matters. AHS Careers is on Facebook, where we make it easy to check out career opportunities, watch videos about why real employees love their jobs, and connect with your local recruitment advisor. Find us on www.facebook.com at “Alberta Health Services careers.”

For what’s happening in your zone, visit www.albertahealthservices.ca Total Albertan Satisfaction PAGE 6 L I V I N G W E L L PLAYING NICE

QUICK TIPS: • Play is important to all aspects of a child’s development. On a social level, when a child plays around and with other people, they learn how to get along with those people. From six-12 months of age, your baby’s most important playmate is you. • Brief moments of play with your child throughout the day can be more valuable than one long scheduled playtime. • To connect with your child through play: – Get down at their level. – Play face-to-face. – Show interest in their play. – Allow your child to lead the play. – Copy their actions, sounds and words. – Give them time to respond and wait until they are ready to change. – Let your child choose or set the pace of how fast or slow the play moves.

Services in the Central Zone area are not available for everyone. For more information, please call: YOU’RE THE REAL TOY STORY • Occupational Therapy Pediatrics For parents, finding the perfect playmate for their little ones is, well, Full list of locations available on www.albertahealthservices.ca: search child’s play. All mom and dad have to do is look in the mirror “Occupational Therapy Pediatrics.” Story by Anne Georg | Photo by Ewan Nicholson | Visit applemag.ca for full article Supports, advises and assists families and schools to optimize infants’ and alls are a blast, Lego is lovely and screens agree that watching television has little value children’s ability to function successfully in seem to be everywhere. But no toy, for children younger than two years old and their environments. Bequipment or virtual pastime is more television is not a replacement for human • Young Parent Outreach fascinating or beneficial to a child than its parents. interactions. – Drayton Valley Community Health Jane Hewes likens the serve-and-return “Interacting with people promotes social Centre. Call 780.542.4415, ext. 6. exchanges between a parent and child to a development,” says David Bickham, staff – Community Health Centre. game. The child scientist at the Center Call 780.361.4362. begins with a gesture on Media and Child Provides information to young women or sound – the “serve” TV DOESN’T RESPOND Health at Boston who have experienced unplanned – and the parent Children’s Hospital pregnancy or parenting challenges. Offers responds with the TO THE CHILD. IT’S NOT and a pediatrics services such as monthly home or health “return.” LIKE A PARENT MAKING instructor at Harvard centre visits to provide education related “Infants invite us into NOISE ... THAT THE CHILD Medical School. to maternal nutrition and lifestyle, fetal a play relationship that “ “TV doesn’t development, and young infant care and is incredibly rewarding CAN MIRROR BACK respond to the child. nutrition. for parents,” says — David Bickham, scientist It’s not like a parent Hewes, Early Learning at the Center on Media and Child Health making noise and and Child Care Chair facial expressions For more information, please visit: at Grant MacEwan that the child can • Health Link Alberta University in Edmonton. mirror back. The child can see that’s how a face Online, visit Myhealth.Alberta.ca or She says many parents make games as works and this kind of social play becomes part call toll-free: 1.866.408.LINK (5465). simple as blowing raspberries, or playing peek- of the development of being skilled at social • On Myhealth.Alberta.ca, search for a-boo part of their caring and daily routines. interactions.” the link: Growth and “Make sure your play has no goals,” says Toys and equipment also have a place, and Development Hewes. What you play and what you play with Bickham says the best ones are those that let Your child’s growth are second to just being together. These human you and your child make up stories as you play and development interactions are fun and they shape a child’s together. Toys from popular television shows or depends on a brain and future mental and physical health. movies already have a storyline and that thwarts combination of North American pediatricians the creative potential of play. n nature (what they are born with) and nurture SPRINGBOARDS FOR STRENGTH (what they What you know: resilient As a parent or caregiver, you play a vital role experience). individuals are better able in nurturing your child’s strength and resiliency, to cope with setbacks, and Alberta Health Services (AHS) is here to adapt to change, and help! Check out AHS’ interactive Bounce Back respond to adversity. Books series for fun activities that you can enjoy What you might not know: a child’s resiliency with your young children, while developing their skills are already developing in infancy, and resiliency skills. Books available online at through early childhood. www.albertahealthservices.ca/1652.asp.

Total Albertan Satisfaction Looking for a physician in your area? Visit www.albertahealthservices.ca P A Y I N G I T F O R W A R D PAGE 7 TURNING TOUGH TIMES INTO PLUS TIMES Going the extra mile? How about going the extra 100 miles? That’s the case of volunteer Sherry Schmidt, who has battled incredible adversity on a personal level, yet still lends a helping hand to others

Story by Adam Eisenbarth | Photo by Pamela Baker

oing above and beyond is not her femur, wrist, knee cap and two uncommon for Alberta Health ribs. GServices volunteers, but the “At one point, she was using a dedication of one volunteer in Drayton walker to serve breakfasts,” says Valley is truly beyond belief. Volunteer Co-ordinator Pam Baker. Sherry Schmidt, 67, has been Along with the injuries, Schmidt was volunteering at the Drayton Valley left devastated on a cold January night Hospital and Care Centre since in 2009, when her house burned to 2001, helping staff serve breakfast to the ground. She still showed up to continuing care residents. volunteer the next morning. “Sherry is a wonderful woman,” “For the one-and-a-half hours I’m says resident Josie Bartek. “She here, my pain and my troubles don’t treats the residents and staff well. exist,” Schmidt says. “It makes me She never leaves until all the residents truly happy. The staff and residents have what they need for breakfast.” are my friends.” By 2007, Schmidt had already Staff throughout the facility have proven her dedication with six years expressed their deep respect for of loyal service, but in the years to Schmidt. She serves as a constant follow, her spirited devotion through a reminder to cherish the opportunity to barrage of challenges would astound work in the hospital. staff and residents. “Sherry is amazing,” says registered In June of that year, she suffered nurse June Hesselbarth. “She is a broken hip kind, caring, knowledgeable and after being dedicated. We thank her every FOR THE ONE-AND- bucked off a morning.” horse. STARS Nurse Cheryl Letendre A-HALF HOURS I’M air ambulance enthusiastically adds, “Sherry is our HERE, MY PAIN AND was called in angel sent from heaven.” MY TROUBLES DON’T to rush her to Schmidt has provided more than “ hospital. 3,300 hours of service in her time EXIST. IT MAKES ME She would as a volunteer throughout the past TRULY HAPPY continue to 11 years and, along with serving volunteer after breakfasts, she provides Bible studies — Sherry Schmidt, left, volunteer with recovering throughout the winter. Drayton Valley Hospital and Care Centre from the injury, “Sherry’s sense of dedication but many other and volunteerism is truly above and broken bone injuries would follow. On beyond,” says Baker. four separate occasions she broke “She gives from her heart.” n

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Centre, 3942 50A Ave., Red Deer from 1:15-2 p.m. • OCT. 17: HEALTH ADVISORY COUNCIL (HAC) MEETING • NOV. 24: HEALTH INITIATIVE – NEW YORK, The Health Advisory Council’s purpose is to enhance and develop NEW YORK CHARITY GALA partnerships between communities and Alberta Health Services. The An evening of fine dining, auctions, and entertainment in support of public is welcome as feedback is key to meeting this goal. The David the Three Hills Health Centre. Funds raised will support the purchase Thompson HAC meets at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre, of an ultrasound machine at the health centre. Doors open at 5:30 p.m Room SC 3208, 3942 50A Ave., Red Deer, at 4 p.m. and the buffet dinner will start at 6:30 p.m. Takes place at the Three Hills Community Centre, 222 Main St., Three Hills. Tickets are $75 • OCT. 20: WETASKIWIN HEALTH FOUNDATION 5TH ANNUAL each and can be purchased by calling 403.443.2444 or online at BARN DANCE & PIE SOCIAL www.threehillshealthdonations.com/new-york-new-york. Proceeds from this year’s event will benefit surgical program enhancement. This event will be held at the Wetaskiwin Drill Hall, • NOV. 27-DEC 1: DAVID THOMPSON HEALTH TRUST – 4513 50 Ave., Westaskiwin, at 5:30 p.m. Adult tickets are $40 per STETTLER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS person. For tickets and more information, please call 780.361.4130. Join the Stettler Health Services Foundation at the Stettler For more information on the foundation please visit www. Community Hall, 5101 46 Ave, Stettler, from noon-5 p.m. daily for the wetaskiwinhealthfoundation.com. 2012 Festival of Lights. General admission is $2 and can be purchased at the door. Proceeds from the festival go to the purchase of new • NOV. 1: ALBERTA HEALTH SERVICES PUBLIC BOARD overhead lifts, enhancing health care for those in acute and continuing MEETING care. For more information and a full schedule of events, please visit Public welcome to attend. Takes place at Red Deer Regional Hospital www.stettlerhealthfoundation.com or call 403.742.7400.

Make a difference by volunteering with AHS. Visit www.albertahealthservices.ca Total Albertan Satisfaction PAGE 8 I N B R I E F DOC’S NOVEL APPROACH hen he’s not busy in an operating Now, Hardy has written a prequel to that first room, Dr. Paul Hardy, a general book. Wsurgeon at the Red Deer Regional The newly published A Surgical Plight offers Hospital Centre, trades his scalpel for a pen to a glimpse into the stressful world of a surgical give a novel perspective on his profession. resident faced with not only making it through In 2008, Hardy first decided to put pen to final exams, but managing difficult cases. paper, taking the time to sit and write about all Hardy, who has worked in medicine across the times he’d thought, “I’ve got to write that the country for decades, says much like the down,” but never did. first novel,A Surgical Plight offers not only What resulted was Hardy’s first novel, entertainment, but education, and raises some Surgical Heights, which takes a look at real-life issues surgeons can face. six chaotic months in the life of a general More information is available at www. Dr. Paul Hardy holds a copy of his novel, Surgical surgeon. surgicalheights.com. n Heights. He has just released a second book.

ALBERTA: ZONE BY ZONE EDMONTON ZONE Population: 1,186,121 • Life expectancy: 81.8 years • Hospitals: 13 NORTH ZONE COMMUNITIES: • Gibbons • Stony Plain Population: 447,740 • Life expectancy: 79.8 years • Hospitals: 34 • Beaumont • Leduc • Thorsby COMMUNITIES: • Fort MacKay • Kinuso • • Devon • • Athabasca • Fort McMurray • Lac la Biche • • Edmonton • St. Albert • Barrhead • Fort Vermilion • La Crete • Spirit River • Evansburg • Sherwood • • Fox Creek • Manning • • Fort Park • Berwyn • Glendon • • Thorhild Saskatchewan • • • Grande Cache • McLennan • Trout Lake • Boyle • • Medley • Valleyview • Cold Lake • Grimshaw • • Vilna CALGARY ZONE • Conklin • • Peace River • Wabasca/ • Edson • • Peerless Lake Desmarais Population: 1,408,606 • Elk Point • Hinton • Radway • • Life expectancy: 82.9 years • Hospitals: 12 • Fairview • Hythe • Rainbow Lake • COMMUNITIES: • • Nanton • • Janvier • Redwater • Worsley • Airdrie • • • Fort Chipewyan • Jasper • St. Paul • Zama City • Banff • Cochrane • • Black • Cremona • Strathmore Diamond • Didsbury • • Calgary • Gleichen • Vulcan CENTRAL ZONE • Canmore • Population: 453,469 • Life expectancy: 80.7 years • Hospitals: 31 COMMUNITIES: • Galahad • • Sylvan Lake • Bashaw • Hanna • Myrnam • Three Hills SOUTH ZONE • Bentley • • Olds • Tofield Population: 289,661 • Breton • Hughenden • Ponoka • Trochu • Camrose • Innisfail • Provost • Two Hills • Life expectancy: 80.3 years • Hospitals: 13 • Castor • Islay • Red Deer • Vegreville COMMUNITIES: Pass • • Consort • Killam • • Vermilion • Bassano • • • Coronation • Kitscoty • Rocky • Viking • Blairmore • Granum • • • Lacombe Mountain • Wainwright • • Irvine • Raymond • Drayton Valley • Lamont House • Wetaskiwin • Brooks • • Redcliff • • Linden • Sedgewick • Willingdon • • • Taber • • • Stettler • Winfield • Coaldale • • Vauxhall • Elnora • Mannville • • Crowsnest • Milk River

WEIGHTY ISSUES HERE’S HOW YOU CAN REACH US If you’ve ever struggled with weight, it’s not ZONE NEWS EDITOR, Zone News – Central Zone is published monthly uncommon to feel as though you’ve exhausted every CENTRAL ZONE: Heather Kipling by Alberta Health Services to inform Albertans of the option to solve the problem. With Weight Wise, a PHONE: 403.341.8687 programs and services available to them, and of the new set of workshops in Central Zone, participants EMAIL: work being done to improve the health care system in [email protected] their communities. are feeling they’ve finally found some answers. MAIL: The paper used by Zone News is certified by While dieting gives a temporary fix to a lifelong 43 Michener Bend the Forest Stewardship Council, an international, effort, Weight Wise helps realign lifestyles for a more Red Deer, Alberta, T4P 0H6 non-profit organization that promotes sustainable, responsibly managed forests. effective, long-lasting effect. Sessions are based on LAYOUT AND DESIGN: Kit Poole nutrition, active living, stress management and more. FSC LOGO To see Central Zone News online, please visit For information, call 1.877.314.6997. (printer places on) www.albertahealthservices.ca/5825.asp

Influenza Immunization Fall into the routine Alberta’s annual influenza immunization program begins October 15. When you make Immunization will be offered, free of charge, influenza immunization to all Albertans 6 months of age and older. an annual event, you protect yourself, For more info, including local clinic details, your family, and visit www.albertahealthservices.ca or call our community. Health Link Alberta at 1.866.408.5465 (LINK)

Total Albertan Satisfaction For health advisories around the province, visit www.albertahealthservices.ca