CENTRAL Zone Zone NEWS 2016 august healthy albertans • Healthy communities • Together

It’s a visible show of support in the LGBTQ community. At our very first meeting, we had over “ 20 people from the area attend. – Carol Breitkreutz

Sarah Megran photo |

Thomas Trombetta and Carol Breitkreutz, a health promotion facilitator with Health rainbow flag flown Services, stand with the Pride Flag behind them. The flag is displayed in the Augustana Campus of the University of Alberta among flags from nations around the world. Its display with pride in camrose is an achievement for the Camrose Pride and LGBTQ communities. PAGE 3 new program goes the end of the road beyond expectations You don’t know where or when you will reach the end of your road, but you can make that journey easier on CancerControl Alberta is changing the channel to a new your loved ones. Discuss your wishes for a funeral, or program: Living Your Best Life with Cancer and Beyond. a celebration of your life. Ease the financial burden and Twice each year through Telehealth, all 17 cancer centres pre-pay for some of those expenses and the others that in Alberta are opening the lines to support will crop up. It will save everyone patients in their cancer journeys. PAGE 5 additional heartbreak. PAGEs 2, 6

Some mosquitoes carry the West Nile virus, so it’s best to avoid being bitten at all. Mosquitoescan t ’ •• UseUse anan insectinsect repellentrepellent withwith DEET.DEET. bite • Wear• Wear light-colouredlight-coloured long-sleevedlong-sleeved you shirts and pants, and a hat. •• ConsiderConsider stayingstaying indoorsindoors atat dawndawn andand duskdusk if they cant when mosquitoes are most active. ’ For more information andvisit tips, ghtthebite.info visit ghtthebite.info find you. or call Health Link Albertaat 811. at 1-866-408-5465. PAGE 2 l o c a l l e a d e r s

Bonnie Litwin holds the framed photo of a dinosaur handed to her when she became the longest-serving staffer at the Community Health Centre.

DR. evan lundAll kerry bales Central Zone executive leadership team Bonnie Litwin hands now isHEA thDe time over a baton – of sorts HEAD – to the next longest- to make your serving staff member Awishlberta Healthe Sservices known has a handy at the Vegreville back-to-school health checklist to help you Community Health keep trackany of ofeverything us save duringfor a rainy this busyday, Centre. It’s a time of year:plan www.albertahealthservices. for retirement, and plan our picture of a Mca/HealthnextWellness/hi-fh-back-to- vacation. Just as important, weschool-checklist.pdf need to plan our health. care future – dinosaur, and make sure our wishes are known. bequeathed encourages you to her a few to think about, talk about and document years back your wishes for health care to ensure your when the previous voice is heard. Advance care planning allows your ‘dino’ retired family or close friends to know what kind of care you want, and could bring comfort and peace of mind to those Passing on the ... dinosaur? making health care decisions on your Story by Sarah Megran | Photo by Cindy Bentley behalf. illions of years ago when dinosaurs amazing people and having managers that Take the time to talk to your friends and roamed the earth, they left behind allowed me to learn and grow,” says Litwin. “I’m family about your wishes. Mtraces of their strength, fearlessness forever grateful for my time at the health centre.” If there’s an unexpected event or and commitment to their herd. Her biggest passion has been Home Care. change in your health and you aren’t On a much smaller scale, staff at the Vegreville Since the time the discipline was established able to make decisions about your health Community Health Centre have that same at the centre in 1979, she was able to watch it care, having a plan in place ensures your strength and dedication to their teams, and grow and help nurture it along the way. wishes are known. they use dinosaurs as part of a running gag to “It was initially only a part-time program recognize the staff member who has been at the on weekdays. Now it’s a seven-day-a-week Things you can do: centre the longest. program,” she says. “Helping people to stay in • Learn about advance care planning. “It has been a joke for a while now,” says their homes as long as possible and allowing • Think about your values and wishes Bonnie Litwin, recalling the framed photo of a them to keep as much independence as for your health care now and in the future. dinosaur she was handed to keep at her desk possible has always been my ultimate goal.” • Talk with those who you are close to when she became the longest-serving staff Taking over from Litwin is her long-time about your values and wishes. member at the Vegreville Community Health colleague and friend Cindy Bentley. • Discuss your wishes with your health Centre (CHC). Bentley says after working together for the care provider. “I wasn’t the first and won’t be the last to past 28 years, the two have developed a strong • Consider naming an alternate receive the photo,” she says with a laugh. “I was friendship and work simply won’t be the same. decision-maker or agent. given the dinosaur a few years ago, when the “Bonnie is just so friendly and great to be • Complete your personal directive. public health manager passed it to me and I’ve around. Patients and staff both love her,” says It’s about making choices for your passed the honour to the next person in line.” Bentley. “She was always the one to go to if you health care before a personal crisis; you Litwin, 60, who recently retired, worked at the had a question and needed to know something.” owe it to yourself and you owe it to your centre for 37 years, serving in a variety of roles. Litwin says she’s looking forward to spending family to think about your health care She began her health care career at the more time with her family on their farm, as well as wishes now. Vegreville Health Unit in 1979 as part of the enjoying scrapbooking, reading and yard work. For more information, check out steno pool – a term used to describe a group of But she says she will miss seeing her colleagues Alberta Health Services’ interactive employees who took clerical notes for people or every day. guide to help you start the conversation departments. Since then, she has worked as a “When you think about it, most often people at www.albertahealthservices.ca/ team lead for health care aides, Seniors Health, spend more time with their co-workers than their advancecareplanning. n and as the site manager since 2005. own family, but I am so happy I could be a part “I have been so fortunate to work with such of the team,” she says. “I will truly miss them.” n What’s on y our MedList? Your entire health care team needs a complete medication list: prescribed medications, inhalers, patches, ointments, eye drops, vitamins – even herbal supplements and nicotine gum.

Your MedList helps your team provide the safest treatment: www.ahs.ca/medlist

www.ahs.ca There are plenty of health care options available. Learn yours by visiting the AHS website. i n y o u r z o n e PAGE 3

It’s important a place of pride to have a space where people feel Camrose welcomes LGBTQ alliance group with rainbow colours welcome and can Story and photo by Sarah Megran | “ speak freely – a oming out to family and friends can be LGBTQ group, Augustana Queers and Allies safe haven of sorts both momentous and courageous for (AQUA), and Breitkreutz. All were there to rally Cthose who identify themselves as lesbian, behind the new initiative. – Thomas Trombetta, Camrose Pride gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning/queer “It is essential to support the community as Community member (LGBTQ). best as we can,” says Tammy Richard, health While it can bring with it a flood of emotions, promotion facilitator for Addictions and Mental alliance is to create further integration and there is often a sense of relief and, earlier this Health, who also attended the initial ‘vision’ awareness in Camrose. year, that’s exactly what a new group in Camrose meeting. “The benefit of having AHS partners The CPC was officially launched on March 7, felt when members came out to the public. at these meetings is that we understand that at the Pride Week kick-off event at the Launched in March, the Camrose Pride families and individuals can have different Augustana Campus of the University of Alberta. Community (CPC) is on a mission to provide safe experiences and concerns. Our hope is to At the event, the university also raised the Pride spaces to discuss issues and provide support for support and educate families on strategies to Flag to hang in the Faith and Life lounge among those in the LGBTQ community. enhance their mental well-being and connect the flags from nations around the world – an “It’s a visible show of support in the LGBTQ them to the right resources.” achievement for Camrose’s LGBTQ community. community,” says Carol Breitkreutz, school Richard notes that research has shown the The Camrose Pride Community meets on the health promotion facilitator for Alberta Health LGBTQ community may have higher rates of first Monday of every month at the Camrose Services (AHS). “At our very first meeting, we mental health challenges and often struggle with United Church, which has declared itself had over 20 people from the area attend – all depression, anxiety, trauma and self-acceptance inclusive to people of all sexual orientations and eager to show their support and educate as a result of facing ongoing gender identities. Approximately a dozen people themselves on how to be that support.” discrimination. attend each meeting, including a variety of One of those people was Paige Switzer, 23, a Thomas community members, professionals, and those member of the LGBTQ community. Trombetta, a who identify with the LGBTQ community. “Knowing that there are people in the member of both Attendance is growing, especially among those community who accept you and want to see the new CPC and in the LGBTQ community. Events such as the you recognized, supported and safe – especially AQUA says “it’s Pride Parade have brought positive community in such a rural area, creates a feeling I cannot important to have a awareness to the new group, and more truly describe,“ Switzer says. “Everyone has a space where people interest will come from the upcoming Camrose different input and it’s awesome to see people feel welcome and Community Night on Sept 8. learning, growing and contributing.” can speak freely – a “It’s wonderful that AHS can And that, says Breitkreutz, is the point. safe haven of sorts.” partner with a variety Although the focus of her role with AHS is to Trombetta adds of groups in the promote health and well-being in schools, the that the hope for community,” says creation of the CPC was a new undertaking, the new Breitkreutz. “It’s and she felt “the call out from the community” really exciting warranted her attention as another way to and fulfilling to support youth. be part of this “My role as a school health promotion initiative and new facilitator concentrates on the social and alliance.” n physical environment and healthy relationships,” says Breitkreutz, adding that it follows a formal framework set by AHS. “This allows us to support groups such as LGBTQ people, in schools and within the wider community.” The group was created out of a need identified by parents in the community who wanted a formal, ‘safe harbour’ for their kids and themselves to go to – a place to ask questions, share stories, discuss current issues facing the LGBTQ community and have a strong support network. The initial meeting included members and allies of the LGBTQ community: high school counsellors, mental health facilitators, local practitioners, parents, the Minister of the Camrose United Church, members from the Augustana Campus of the University of Alberta

Thomas Trombetta and Carol Breitkreutz have taken on leading roles to support and create a safe haven for the Camrose LGBTQ community.

A career in health care can be extremely rewarding. Visit the AHS website for career details. www.ahs.ca PAGE 4 a t y o u r s e r v i c e Scoliosis patients safer 3D imaging cuts with new diagnostic Services in technology at Stollery radiation for kids Children’s Hospital your community Story by Sharman Hnatiuk | Photo by Mathew Martin Screen Test Mobile hilippa Madill was five the first time her “I watched my older sister Hannah have as Mammography Screen Test provides mammography spine was X-rayed. many as four X-rays per year to monitor her screening to women ages 50 to 74 – the PAfter being diagnosed with scoliosis, scoliosis,” explains Philippa. “I’m happy that I’ll age group most at risk of developing defined as a spinal curvature of more than 10 be exposed to less radiation thanks to this new breast cancer – in rural communities degrees to the right or left, the 13-year-old from technology.” where the service isn’t regularly available. received X-rays each year to The EOS Imaging System exposes children to The program is coming to the following monitor her spine as she grew up. seven to nine times less radiation than standard Central Zone communities: In May, Philippa had her first scan using the new X-ray machines as it creates a high-quality • : Aug. 2-6, 8. EOS Imaging System, a low-dose, 3D imaging image by scanning the spine of a patient in • Maskwacis: Sept. 6-9. system that captures whole body images of a approximately seven seconds. To book your appointment and to inquire standing patient in a single scan, at ’s The refined images are used for initial diagnosis about upcoming Central Zone stops, call Stollery Children’s Hospital. and assessment. toll-free 1.800.667.0604 or visit The system also boasts a micro- www. . dose setting which exposes screeningforlife.ca/screentest patients to 50 times less radiation than a standard X-ray. While a micro-dose image may not be as clear as the traditional image, it’s sufficient to monitor disease progression for scoliosis patients who require followup imaging. “X-rays and scans can be helpful, even life-saving, but increased exposure to radiation can lead to an increased incidence of cancer,” says Dr. Marc Moreau, a pediatric Aboriginal Health orthopedic surgeon at the Stollery. Program Provides additional support to “It’s important to use the lowest Aboriginals and health care providers to dose possible when scanning a respond to the needs of the Aboriginal child; this technology allows us community. The program helps to obtain the best quality imaging Aboriginal clients, families, agencies and without compromising the safety of communities access AHS programs and our patients.” services and non-AHS resources. For Scoliosis impacts three to five more information, visit per cent of children, and typically www.alberta . affects girls more frequently and healthservices.ca/aboriginal.asp more severely than boys. The scoliosis clinic at the Stollery sees about 1,800 patient visits per year, with patients who often require scans every six months. “Scoliosis is a three-dimensional deviation of the spine, but traditional X-rays only give us a two-dimensional view,” says Moreau. “This new device uses an ultra- low dose of radiation to provide Supervised Exercise For adults with one or more chronic extremely detailed, high-quality conditions that require the supervision images. Using the EOS machine of an exercise specialist to learn how to makes imaging safer for our exercise safely. Participants learn about pediatric patients and gives a more the safe use of exercise equipment, self- accurate perspective for diagnosis, monitoring as needed (for example, blood surgical treatment and followup of pressure, blood glucose, pulse) and an the spine.” initial exercise routine. They also learn The Stollery Children’s Hospital about healthy eating, basic label reading, Drayton Valley resident Philippa Madill, 13, has a scan using the Foundation contributed $750,000 general health practices and goal-setting new EOS Imaging System, a low-dose, 3D imaging system that toward the machine and an skills. In Red Deer, call 1.877.314.6997. captures whole body images of a standing patient in a single additional $27,500 for the micro- scan, at Edmonton’s Stollery Children’s Hospital. dose software. n Strategic Clinical SCNs ensure patient & Networks (SCNs) family voices contribute Alberta’s engines of innovation. to health planning and Learn more at www.albertahealthservices.ca/scn decision making.

www.ahs.ca Do you have concerns about your health? Visit the AHS website for symptom information. I n n o v a t i o n s PAGE 5 Visit Us Online pinterest Follow us on Pinterest for healthy living info and more: www. pinterest.com/ ahsbehealthy.

Passion for Health blogs are an opportunity Deb Allatt, AHS Lead, Provincial Patient Education, Patient Engagement and Supportive Care, to introduce Albertans to the people behind left, joins patient Colin Cantlie and Amanda Jacques, Provincial Education Specialist – Alberta Health Services who care deeply Survivorship, CancerControl Alberta, in the exercise facility at the Holy Cross Cancer Centre about providing the best possible care. The where Cantlie stays healthy following his cancer treatment. subjects range from personal stories of triumph, to healthy recipes, to active living. living your best life For some of our latest blogs, visit www. albertahealthservices.ca/blogs/pfh. with cancer and beyond Story and photo by Kristin Bernhard | FACEBOOK diagnosis of cancer can be devastating diagnosis but you can change a lot by your and the treatments that follow can take a attitude and your approach and by learning Atoll on the body and mind. That journey is something new about your cancer every day.” not easy, and it can be difficult to navigate. Amanda Jacques, Provincial Education But for prostate cancer survivor Colin Cantlie, Specialist – Survivorship, CCA, says each the key to getting through it all is attitude, participating AHS cancer centre site creates a education and participation. local live event with survivors, like Cantlie, who “Attitude is so important in your recovery,” says share their cancer story and answer questions. Cantlie. “If your attitude is to shut down, then “We want to give patients and families the your physical and emotional health may follow.” ability to take the next steps and really empower CancerControl Alberta (CCA) offers a way for them to live their best life despite having cancer,” There’s nothing quite like an act of kindness patients to connect with other survivors and get says Jacques. to help us focus on the good in the world. practical tips and information about services The events focus on tips that participants can Read our latest blog on the value of Paying it available through a twice-yearly education event take right away to live their best life by: Forward: bit.ly/29FFIcj. called Living Your Best Life with Cancer and • Adding movement or exercise into their day. Beyond (LYBL). • Having a positive outlook. Run by the CCA Transitions of Care Provincial • Appreciating things that are good in their life. Project Team, the event is designed to support • Learning how to minimize side effects. YouTube cancer survivors in living well with and beyond Unlike many educational sessions and events, Check out fun and informative AHS videos their diagnosis. LYBL sessions occur twice a year LYBL has been created for people with all types on YouTube. From health topics to information in and Edmonton and are open through of cancer and stages of diagnosis, as well as about our programs and facilities, we have video teleconference at all 17 cancer centres; it cancer survivors. dozens of videos for you to watch. Go to is the only outreach cancer education event in This uniqueness is what draws Cantlie in. www.youtube.com, search “AHSChannel.” Alberta that is available to the entire province. “Although we do not all have the same form of Cantlie was diagnosed with prostate cancer in cancer or the same outlook or prognosis, there 2014. After opting for a radical prostatectomy – is the common link between us that we are all an operation that removes the prostate gland and survivors. We do not all think the same, so to TWITTER some of the surrounding tissue – he is currently in share our different stories with each other allows recovery and determined to get the most out of us to support each other in a unique way.” Follow your zone at AHS_CentralZone: his life, even if it is one with cancer. LYBL events began four years ago and have • Are you getting enough #iron? Get the “You must have an attitude that helps you drawn over 2,000 participants across Alberta. The facts and symptoms of iron deficiency. And move forward with enthusiasm to help you get next LYBL event will be held Oct. 28 in Edmonton learn how to help prevent it. Visit http://bit. better and stay better,” he says. and will be offered provincewide through ly/1V9fQ9d. Cantlie believes one of the best ways Telehealth, sites to be confirmed. • Women 50-74 are most at risk of develop- to cultivate a positive attitude is by having For more information about LYBL and ing breast cancer. If you live in a rural area, a conversations, getting out there and being active. other cancer support programs, visit www. mobile #mammography unit may be coming “It’s your body and your health; you need to albertahealthservices.ca/cancer/Page9613. your way. Make sure you get screened. For know what’s happening. You may not like the aspx. n more information, call 1.800.667.0604.

Missed saying thanks to someone at AHS whose care or kindness mattered? Now’s your chance! You can post - and share - your thanks using virtual sticky notes and emoticons at: Thank the People Who Care www.thanksforcaring.cawww.thanksforcaring.ca

For the latest health news updates in your zone, visit the AHS website. www.ahs.ca PAGE 6 l i v i n g w e l l

talking about the ‘f’ word: funerals Discuss your wishes now and avoid heartache down the road

Story by Colleen Seto | Visit applemag.ca

WHAT TO DO WHEN A LOVED ONE DIES A number of legal and financial wo years ago, I lost my mother memorabilia, flowers, food, and your final resting obligations have to be looked after unexpectedly. We’d never talked about place. It’s a lot to consider, which is why it’s ideal when someone dies. Many will require end-of-life choices, so trying to make to plan ahead. T a Statement of Death. That document medical decisions on her behalf was agonizing. “I am a firm believer that the celebration of life will be required to cancel benefits When she passed, I thought perhaps the worst should reflect the person,” Reitsema says. “Why such as: was over. have a church service for someone who has n Old Age Security I couldn’t have been more wrong. never attended church?” n Pension Plan My family had to immediately put together a With that in mind, you don’t have to follow the n Employment Insurance funeral that honoured and reflected her while also norm. If you’ve always hosted the best parties, n Tax-related payments meeting family and cultural expectations, and on why not throw one final bash? If you love to travel, n Personal identification, such as a limited budget. That only extended the horror – orchestrate a trip for your loved ones as a final passports, registrations and licences. all while chest-deep in grief. celebration. If you’re a music lover, host a live Surviving spouses or family Not an experience I’d wish on anyone. concert featuring your favourite music as your last members may also be eligible for the Sparing loved ones such emotional trauma is hurrah. Survivor’s Pension or the Canada the key reason to plan your own farewell service. Customizing your final commemoration by Pension Plan death benefit. And, “It is a huge responsibility for the surviving family sharing your interests, memories and talents is the if you’re acting as the executor or to create a meaningful celebration,” says Ray perfect way for people to remember you. Some administrator, you’re responsible for Reitsema, funeral director and assistant manager folks hold a “pre-funeral” before they pass to the deceased’s finances. at Foster’s Garden Chapel in Calgary. “If someone spend time with family and friends and celebrate Things to consider include: is able to have a frank discussion with loved ones their life while still alive. Whatever you decide, Assets prior to death, some stress is removed from a it will be all the more meaningful because you n Property deeds very difficult and emotional process.” chose it. n Rent payments Prepayment can also eliminate or ease the “Even if the person has only prearranged the n Bank accounts financial burden. The Alberta Funeral Service goods and services necessary, the surviving family n Investments Association estimates the average cost of a has a much easier task than starting from the n Other belongings funeral in Alberta is $4,500. You could save beginning,” Reitsema says. “They are confident Debts money by paying for the services you (hopefully) they are doing what their loved one wanted n Credit cards don’t use until the distant future. instead of guessing.” n Loan payments One important step is deciding if you want to be Making your wishes known will help immensely, n Utility bills buried, cremated or donated to medical science. even if yours is not to have a final celebration. n Other unpaid bills If you don’t want burial or cremation as part of the Had we had any hint of what my mom wanted, Insurance service, or even a traditional funeral at a church we wouldn’t have been plagued by uncertainty n Mortgage or chapel, you could have a memorial service throughout an already devastating experience. n Personal/family coverage either immediately or down the road. From there, Ultimately, it’s better to have a painful n Work coverage you can decide on the details you want: who will conversation now to ease far greater pain down officiate, music, slideshow, eulogies, obituaries, the road. n

www.ahs.ca Looking for a physician in your area? Visit the Alberta Health Services website for information. o u r p a r t n e r s PAGE 7

I’m glad“ our patients will have the new TVs because it’s important to stay connected to the world. The TVs offer that to people who might feel getting isolated when they’re in the a clearer hospital – Shirley Zimmerman, patient in the Olds picture Hospital and Care Centre New TVs will be a welcome plus for patients in Olds

Patient Shirley Zimmerman sits beside an old television in the acute care unit at the Olds Hospital and Care Centre. Zimmerman is happy the hospital is getting new TVs because the old ones are wearing out. The Olds Healthcare Fundraising Committee has been busy raising money for new flat-screen TVs that will go a long way to improve hospital stays for patients. Story by Kerri Robins | Photo courtesy Kristine Schultz cute care patient Shirley Zimmerman has the hospital the green light to purchase 31 “TV provides a distraction – and it’s nice for a thing or two to say about televisions – televisions for acute care at a total cost of family members to watch with their loved ones Aespecially after she’s been watching an $35,000, including wiring. while in the hospital.” old tube-style telly since last February at the Olds Acute care manager Nathan Banda says the Foundation co-chair Kathy Kimpton says she’s Hospital and Care Centre. TVs mean a huge improvement for patients, happy with the eagerly anticipated upgrades. “I’m thrilled our hospital is getting some new because they’ll help create a more home-like “The hospital was due for some new TVs and TVs because these old ones are just about atmosphere. our community has really stepped up in helping broken down,” says the 78-year-old, joking “We want to create an environment that us fundraise,” she says. that, “I could just throw it out the window, doesn’t seem so clinical for our patients,” he “I’m proud to be part of such a great group of sometimes.” says. people and appreciate all the hard work that’s Zimmerman suffered a stroke last February Many of the old sets have either stopped gone into this cause. Our Kiwanis Club partners and spent about four months in the hospital. working, or are small and provide poor images did a fabulous job flipping pancakes.” But thanks to recent fundraising – including a and sound quality. They also require the patient Fortunately for Zimmerman, she’s now at home June 8 pancake breakfast that raised more than to wear headphones whenever watching TV. continuing her recovery. $10,000 – patients will soon be able to keep Banda says he’s looking forward to the “I’m glad our patients will have the new TVs in touch with the world on new flat-screen TVs changeover. because it’s important to stay connected to the with the promise of clearer, crisper images on a “The new flat-screen TVs will improve patients’ world,” she says. “The TVs offer that to people much-bigger screen. rooms, but also provide programming with much who might feel isolated when they’re in the Hosted by the Kiwanis Club, in partnership better quality images and sounds. And they’re hospital.” with the Olds Healthcare Fundraising Committee, more user-friendly with remotes and easily For more information, or to make a donation, the breakfast tipped the scales – giving handled controls,” he says. please visit www.oldshealthdonations.com. n

Help shape Alberta’s health care services Join a volunteer health advisory council.

Alberta Health Services is accepting applications for three Health Advisory Councils. Lakeland Communities | Peace | Yellowhead East Do you live in one of the above areas? See the map at: www.ahs.ca/shapehealthcare [email protected]

Giving is healthy: contact your local foundation or Health Advisory Council today. www.albertahealthservices.cawww.ahs.ca PAGE 8 i n b r i e f ‘lucky 13’ raises funds in two hills ome people are superstitious about resident care at the Two Hills Health With 64 participants lacing up to take the number 13, but when it comes Centre. part in various distances – including a 2.5 Sto the annual Walk/Run for the Hills The event has come full circle since it km, 5 km, 7.5 km and 10 km – and 13 fundraiser in Two Hills, the 13th installment originally started to raise money for electric little ones taking part in the Kiddie-K, the of the event was anything but unlucky. beds to replace the aged crank-style beds event also drew four local teams for the It raised more than $14,900 this year, in the facility. community challenge competition which with more expected as final donations are Now, 13 years later, some of the electric involved teams tracking their weight loss, tallied. beds need to be upgraded and proceeds increasing their daily steps, and then Those funds will help purchase from this year’s event will be earmarked to dressing up for the Walk/Run for the Hills equipment and enhance patient and support that initiative. to support their team. n

local Central Zone executive leadership team: cENTRAL Dr. Evan Lundall zone leadership Kerry Bales AHS embraces local leadership and zone-based decision-making. Right here in , front-line physicians and other clinical leaders at every level of the organization have joint planning and decision-making authority with operational leaders, meaning faster decision-making closer to where care is provided. DR. EVAN KERRY LUNDALL BALES alberta: zone by zone edmonton zone Population: 1,295,164 • Life expectancy: 81.9 years • Hospitals: 14 north zone Communities: • Gibbons • Stony Plain Population: 478,979 • Life expectancy: 79.7 years • Hospitals: 34 • Beaumont • Leduc • Thorsby Communities: • Fort MacKay • • • 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: 1,544,495 • Elk Point • Hinton • Radway • Westlock • Life expectancy: 83.5 years • Hospitals: 14 • 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: 470,490 • Life expectancy: 80.1 years • Hospitals: 30 Communities: • Galahad • • Sylvan Lake • Bashaw • Hanna • Myrnam • SOUTH zone • Bentley • • Olds • Population: 298,169 • Breton • Hughenden • Ponoka • Trochu • Camrose • Innisfail • Provost • Two Hills • Life expectancy: 79.9 years • Hospitals: 14 • Castor • Islay • Red Deer • Vegreville Communities: Pass • Milk River • Consort • Killam • • Vermilion • Bassano • Foremost • • Coronation • Kitscoty • Rocky • Viking • Blairmore • • • • Lacombe Mountain • Wainwright • • Granum • • Drayton Valley • Lamont House • Wetaskiwin • Brooks • Irvine • Raymond • • Linden • Sedgewick • Willingdon • • • Redcliff • • • Stettler • Winfield • Coaldale • • Taber • Elnora • Mannville • • Crowsnest • • Vauxhall

central Zone: Heather Kipling To see Central Zone News online, please here’s Phone: 403.341.8687 visit www.albertahealthservices.ca/ FSC LOGO Email: zones/Page12867.aspx. (printer places on) [email protected] Zone News – Central Zone is published Mail: 43 Michener Bend monthly by Alberta Health Services to This paper has been certified to meet how to Red Deer, Alberta, T4P 0H6 inform Albertans of the programs and the environmental and social standards Layout and design: Kit Poole services available to them, and of the work of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) IMAGING: Michael Brown being done to improve the health care and comes from well-managed forests reach us system in their communities. and other responsible sources.

Are you one of the hundreds of thousands of Albertans living with diabetes? Know someone who is? Then join us this fall for the CDA Expos… Diabetes impacts the lives of hundreds of thousands of ••Aboriginal Gathering & CDA Expo, September 16, 2016 Albertans. The number of Albertans living with diabetes is River Casino, Edmonton expected to grow to over 300,000 this year, and over 25 per ••Edmonton CDA Expo, October 27, 2016 cent of Albertans are living with diabetes or prediabetes— Key note speaker: Dr. Ali Zentner, MD, Global News Medical including many who are undiagnosed. Consultant and Lifestyle Intervention Expert That’s why Alberta Blue Cross is pleased to be partnering with Italian Cultural Centre the Canadian Diabetes Association to sponsor three upcoming ••Calgary Diabetes Awareness Day and CDA Expo, CDA Expos. These events offer great opportunities to learn November 26, 2016 about diabetes self-management while connecting and

University of Calgary Health Science Centre ABC 82786 2016/06 motivating people living with diabetes. And they’re free! Each event includes a great line-up of expert speakers, an interactive For more information and to register to attend, please visit tradeshow, local content and opportunities to win prizes. diabetes.ca/events.

www.ahs.ca Be sure to visit our website for health advisories around the province. Alberta Blue Cross 82786 AHS - ZONE NEWS - Half page - 10” x 3” - SUMMER 2016