2015 Power Mag Issue - Reh

REH - FI T
M AGA ZINE
WHAT IS THE
BIGGEST RISK TO
YOUR HEALTH?
TAKING THE
FIRST STEPS
4
EATING FOR
ENERGY
10
GETTING ACTIVE
WITH DIABETES
12
MOVING FORWARD
AFTER CANCER
19
What is the biggest risk to your health? | 3
WHAT IS
THE BIGGEST
RISK TO YOUR
HEALTH?
You might be surprised to learn that
it’s inactivity. Our jobs and our lives are
becoming increasingly sedentary and the
consequences of that are showing up in
our health. Heart disease, cancer, diabetes,
and mental health problems occur at much
higher rates than they would if most people
led physically active lives.
Research shows regular exercise can play
a significant role in treating and preventing
virtually every disease. So why aren’t more
of us getting physically active when the goal
of getting 150 minutes of moderate exercise
every week is attainable for most people?
The reasons are common: Too busy, too
tired, too old, too out of shape, too many
health issues. Sound familiar? The Reh-Fit
Centre is here to help you change that.
As Canada’s first certified medical fitness
facility, we take a unique approach in
helping adults learn the strategies
to overcome life’s challenges and stay
committed to a healthier, more active life.
Our university-degreed and credentialed
staff is here to guide and support you
along the way. Our approach includes
a thorough assessment so that you can
start exercising safely and comfortably,
education to help you make long-term
behaviour changes, and an incredible
variety of fitness options to keep you
motivated, engaged, and seeing results.
And, while we’re well-known for our
Cardiac Rehabilitation program, our
services and physician-referred programs
extend far beyond it, helping those with
many other chronic diseases. You’ll find out
more about these life-changing programs
within the pages of this magazine.
To find out more about the
Reh-Fit Centre’s programs and
services, visit www.reh-fit.com
Of course the Reh-Fit Centre is also about
prevention. Our programs and services are
ideal for those who want to minimize their
risk of health issues and simply feel their
best at any age.
So if you’re ready to explore the options
and want to lead a more active life, stop
by and talk to us about how to get started.
We’ve helped more than 10,000 people
this past year alone and we know we
can help you too!
Sue Boreskie
CEO, Reh-Fit Centre
4 | REH-FIT POWER
TAKING THE FIRST
STEP CHANGES
EVERYTHING
“I don’t particularly enjoy exercise and it’s never
been part of my lifestyle,” says Rona Yuthasastrakosol.
But that changed when she was diagnosed with
Graves disease – an autoimmune disease that is often
accompanied by a variety of symptoms, including
insomnia, fatigue, and anxiety.
Physical activity guidelines encourage
“I was diagnosed last year in August and
all adults to engage in at least 150 minutes
it was my doctor who suggested that it
would be a good time to start exercising. of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity
each week. That may not sound like a lot
I had looked at programs at the Reh-Fit
but most aren’t doing it, says Siemens.
Centre before, but when I saw the “First
“Some people don’t know how to get
Steps to Active Living” program, I knew
started or they start and can’t stick with
that was the right choice for me.”
it. Others think they are too busy. But
First Steps to Active Living is a 12-week
the First Steps to Active Living program
program designed to help people
provides new ideas and strategies on how
incorporate physical activity into their
to overcome these and other challenges.”
routines by providing them with the
For Rona, the program and its classroom
information, skills, and step-by-step
environment proved to be a turning point
process to change their behaviour.
in her health and lifestyle. “We talked
Suzy Siemens, Chronic Disease
about goals and also how to think about
Program Manager at the Reh-Fit Centre,
activity and that clicked for me. In the past,
says the First Steps to Active Living
whenever I started exercising, I’d miss
program is increasingly popular as
a few days and think I’d failed. This class
people understand the importance
helped me realize that if I couldn’t work out
of learning how to be more physically
this week then I could continue next week.”
active. “So many health issues are
Equipped with her new knowledge and
associated with, and can be helped by,
approach, Rona began working out at
physical activity. Heart disease, cancer,
the gym in her workplace. “I’m now up
diabetes, and mental health problems
to working out six or seven days a week.
occur at much higher rates than they
I set goals for myself, which really helps,
would if most people led physically
and typically do resistance training and
active lives.”
a 10-kilometre walking program.”
Her activity is making a difference.
“I feel really good and working out has
been effective in managing my symptoms.
My doctor is happy with my results and
pleased that I’ve decided to get active.
Now if I take a day off from the gym, I feel
like I’m missing something. This is the first
time in my life I’ve ever felt like that!”
With the First Steps to Active Living
program starting every few weeks,
more people are joining as a way to get
the support and knowledge they need
to make lasting changes. Rona adds,
“The Reh-Fit is such a welcoming place
and not intimidating at all. I have already
recommended the First Steps program
to other people. I think sometimes people
need a good place to start and for me,
this was it!”
Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life are generous supporters of the First Steps to Active Living program.
Taking the first step changes everything | 5
RONA YUTHASASTRAKOSOL
A NEW PRESCRIPTION FOR HEALTH
In Manitoba, over half the adult
population lives with a chronic condition
such as arthritis, diabetes, or asthma.
Depending on the illness, those who live
with these conditions use anywhere from
2.6 to 8.2 times more health care dollars
than those without a health condition.
As our population ages, the demand on
our health care system continues to grow
and places an ever-increasing burden
on government budgets.
The good news is that research shows
exercise can play a significant role
in preventing diseases and chronic
conditions, enhancing brain function
and independence in the aged, and
in combination with sensible nutrition,
could save billions in health care costs.
At the Reh-Fit Centre, we know that this
proven approach represents an improved
prescription for health as it reduces the
cost of health care and individual reliance
on prescription medication.
Every day we see examples of people
who no longer require surgery, have
reduced or eliminated their prescription
medication, require less medical care,
and enjoy greater mobility and
independence as a result of their
participation at the Reh-Fit Centre.
To ensure the Reh-Fit is as effective
and responsive to the needs of the
community as possible, the Centre has
created a Medical Advisory Committee
of physicians to generate feedback on
our programs and services, identify
gaps in community health and fitness
programs, and determine opportunities
to partner with other health agencies
and organizations. The Centre also
has a Medical Advisor on staff for advice
and guidance. We also make a direct
connection with your own physician,
providing them with your assessment
results and regular updates on your
progress. Together we ensure
a seamless circle of care.
6 | REH-FIT POWER
TAKING THE ACHES
OUT OF AGING
If you think aches and pain are just
a normal part of aging, think again.
While our body does experience some
wear and tear as we grow older, there
are steps you can take to minimize and
eliminate back pain, stiff joints, and
other body aches.
When Heather Gies injured her rotator
cuff and underwent hip replacement
surgery, she was feeling the aches
and pains associated with both. “I had
shoulder stiffness and a limited range
of motion and, at the same time, was
still recovering from my hip surgery.”
Heather had participated in programs
at the Reh-Fit previously but with her
new injuries, she talked to her husband
about joining the Centre. “What I like
about this place is that there is no
judgment here. The staff encourages
you, but you can work at your own pace.
It’s clean and there’s so much to do.”
HEATHER GIES
With a membership in hand, Heather
began incorporating her workouts into
her daily routine. “I started spending
more time on the bike and added the
‘hill climb’ program. I’m building up my
time on the elliptical machine and using
a machine for my arm that is helping
build up my mobility and strength.”
Taking the aches out of aging | 7
PROGRAMS & EDUCATION
TO LIVE A HEALTHIER LIFE
However, with stiffness plaguing her shoulder
joint, staff arranged for Heather to meet
with the Reh-Fit’s physiotherapist for some
tips and guidance on how to exercise safely.
Reh-Fit physiotherapist Amandev Dhesi
says there are many types of joint problems
such as Heather’s that affect our soft
tissues like muscles, tendons, and
ligaments as we age. “Many people have
joint pain related to aging or to conditions
such as arthritis or bursitis. Whatever the
cause, this pain can seriously diminish
quality of life. What we do know is that
regular exercise can help keep your joints
flexible, muscles strong, and blood
circulation healthy.”
Heather took the advice she received from
the physiotherapist and put it into practice.
“I try to come here three or four times a
week because I just generally feel better.
If I do my exercises, then my shoulder feels
good. If I don’t, it tightens up. I also have
more energy and sleep better now that
I’m more active.”
Heather’s flexibility has also returned.
“I had always been a flexible person but
had lost some of that with my surgery.
Now I find it is coming back. And, when
I go up and down the stairs at home,
I’m not as winded as I used to be. My
doctor is really pleased I’m working out!”
Of course for many people who have not
exercised in the past, it can be difficult to
know where to start. Heather has some
advice: “Just come here for a tour. There
are lots of programs to help you get
started and the staff is always here to
answer questions – they are really great!”
More education, training, and support
are required for the growing number of
people in our community challenged with
obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease,
and other health concerns.
This past year, more than 10,000
community members accessed the
Reh-Fit Centre’s programs and services.
With a goal of creating a healthier, more
active community, the Reh-Fit hosts
a variety of educational events to bring
you the latest information on fitness and
health. Most of the health screening
clinics and educational events are free
and open to everyone.
Visit www.reh-fit.com for current and
upcoming events, including:
EDUCATION SEMINARS
Want to know more about health,
fitness, and nutrition? Sign up for our
monthly education seminars, which
address current health care issues
and offer down-to-earth guidelines
for healthy living.
HEALTH SCREENING CLINICS
From testing your blood pressure and
determining your Body Mass Index (BMI),
to assessing your lung function and
knowing the risks of stroke, you’ll find
a variety of health screening clinics
throughout the year to help identify
and control your risk factors.
LIVE HEALTHY SPEAKER SERIES
If you want the latest cutting-edge
research and facts on how to prevent
and manage chronic health conditions,
then you’ll want to join us to hear from
our Live Healthy guest experts.
Throughout the year, the Reh-Fit features
the industry’s top specialists who answer
your questions and bring you the most
up-to-date information on healthy living.
EXERCISE IS MEDICINE™ MONTH
Did you know that Exercise is Medicine™?
Based on the finding that physical activity,
in the right doses, is unparalleled in its
ability to prevent and treat chronic
disease, Exercise is Medicine™ month
provides you with opportunities to learn
more about the benefits of exercise and
participate in weekly fitness challenges
that emphasize the importance of 150
minutes of moderate intensity physical
activity a week for health benefits.
ACTIVE AGING WEEK
It is possible to age with energy and
strength! Find out how during Active
Aging Week in September. You’ll discover
how to get active, stay active, and access
resources in our community.
SMART FOR YOUR HEART
Find out more about the world’s
leading killer and how you can
prevent and manage cardiovascular
disease during Smart for Your Heart
month in February. You can also
take the “heart challenge” – a
cardiovascular assessment that
measures your blood pressure,
body mass index, and heart age.
8 | REH-FIT POWER
KELLY KLUGER
A Reh-Fit assessment | 9
“WITHOUT THAT
ASSESSMENT, I’M NOT
SURE WHERE I’D BE NOW”
In 2010, Kelly Kluger was juggling the needs
of two children and an aging parent; she was
stretched thin and knew she wasn’t looking after
herself. Kelly decided to join the Reh-Fit Centre
as a way to feel better, but even she wasn’t
expecting what happened next.
“The Reh-Fit offers a comprehensive
health assessment that includes a cardiac
risk test and blood work. The results of
that assessment revealed a health issue
I had been completely unaware of –
extremely low hemoglobin. I was sent
to Emergency at the hospital where they
referred me to a specialist and did a
CT scan. Those tests also revealed
another issue – I had a tumour that
needed to be removed,” says Kelly.
The results caught her by surprise.
“I don’t think I realized how lousy I felt
until I started feeling better. With low
hemoglobin, my doctor said my body
just adapted because it happened
gradually. I felt tired, but I didn’t have
a lot of symptoms.”
The assessment is a critical component
of the many services the Reh-Fit offers
says Dr. Thang Nguyen, Medical
Advisor – Cardiac Rehabilitation.
“The assessment flags potential issues,
provides baseline results, and is the
foundation for creating an effective health
and fitness plan.” The Reh-Fit Centre also
shares the results of each assessment
with the individual’s physician.
For Kelly, the assessment changed
everything. “I’m so lucky that I landed
here at a medical fitness facility and not
just a gym. Without that assessment I’m
not sure where I’d be now. Finding out
about these issues also motivated me
to keep coming to the Centre. I started
working out three times a week and find
it’s a great stress-reliever.”
Fast forward five years and Kelly
continues to carve out time to look after
herself at the Reh-Fit. “My health is great
and I feel as good as I did in high school.
I love coming here as often as I can and
really enjoy the group fitness classes like
Power Sculpt and Ride. These classes are
motivating and I like that I can just follow
the instructions and get a great workout.”
Her commitment to health extends
beyond working out. “I make more of an
effort to be active all of the time so I’ll do
small things like park my car farther from
the door so I have to walk and I’ve
incorporated more whole foods into my
diet. My entire family is into it now and my
husband has joined the Reh-Fit too.”
While she still finds it a challenge to
balance the demands of a busy personal
and work life, Kelly says it’s definitely
worth the effort. “My advice to people my
age is to put yourself first – it’s okay to do
that. If you don’t, then you can’t look after
anything or anyone else. People think it’s
a chore to come to a gym but this is my
happy place – I love coming here. It’s
what I do for me.”
A REH-FIT
ASSESSMENT
CAN HELP YOU!
You want to get more active, but don’t know
what kind of exercise, how often, or how
intensely you should be working out. Where
do you start?
At the Reh-Fit Centre, we start by finding
out more about your current condition with
our comprehensive Health and Fitness
Assessment. Our degreed professionals
conduct a series of baseline analyses, such as:
• resting heart rate and blood pressure
• cardiovascular fitness
• blood analysis including lipid profile,
fasting blood sugar, and hemoglobin
• muscular strength and endurance
•flexibility
• cardiac risk assessment
• functional movement
• waist circumference and body mass index
Using this baseline, we recommend a plan
that includes a combination of physical
activity and exercise class options, nutrition
counselling, and educational programs that
suit your needs. Plus our staff is always on
hand to answer your questions, provide
alternative suggestions, help you vary your
routine, and keep you motivated. We also
share your assessment results with your
physician and continue to keep him or her
updated on your progress.
10 | REH-FIT POWER
EATING FOR ENERGY
“Last year I had open heart surgery to replace
one of my valves. My doctor recommended the
Cardiac Rehabilitation program at the Reh-Fit Centre
and I can tell you that this place saved my life.”
Eating for energy | 1 1
Louise Geddes was in poor shape after
surgery when she arrived at the doors
of the Reh-Fit. “I went for an assessment
and couldn’t even stay on the treadmill
for one minute,” she says, shaking her
head in disbelief.
Hard to believe that this is the same
woman who now does 30 minutes on the
treadmill followed by 30 minutes on the
bike and Nu-step machine. Louise has
come a long way. “I always used to have
to start with my inhaler – but now I haven’t
used it in weeks and I’m not out of breath.
I’ve lost 39 pounds and my family doctor
is amazed at how different I look – I’ve got
colour back in my face.”
BOB & LOUISE GEDDES
Her husband Bob also suffered from atrial
fibrillation and credits the Reh-Fit with
getting them both moving. “We feel
comfortable here because of the trained
staff. Everything and everyone is available
to you – the dietitian, the nurses, the
physiotherapist, the fitness professionals.
They’re here to help you.”
While exercise proved to be good
medicine for Bob and Louise, they also
realized they needed to modify their
eating habits. They set up an appointment
with a dietitian. “The things we learned
were phenomenal and have really helped
put us on the right track to eating. We’ve
adjusted our portion size, don’t eat as
many prepared foods out of boxes and
bags anymore, and have increased the
amount of fruits and vegetables we eat
every day,” says Louise.
Tenille Sonnichsen, Reh-Fit’s dietitian,
adds that Bob and Louise had already
made some positive changes to their
diet but that there was still room for
improvement. “I talked to them about
the importance of vegetables that contain
Vitamin K. Vitamin K affects how your
blood coagulates and because they
were taking a particular medication, the
Geddes had to pay attention to Vitamin K
vegetables for their heart health.”
Bob says that learning how to read labels
when they grocery shop has also made
a difference. “I couldn’t believe it when
I looked at the label on the back of that
little yogurt container I always bought and
realized there were seven teaspoons of
sugar in there! Now we try to eat as much
fresh food as we can.”
The nutrition and exercise choices they
are making are paying off. “When the
doctor first told me I needed to start
exercising, my reaction was ‘Oh no –
I don’t exercise’. But it’s never too late
to start. A few weeks ago we went to the
Zoo and walked for 2.5 hours. I could have
never done that before,” says Louise.
Bob nods in agreement. “I’m 33 pounds
lighter and can’t believe how much more
energy we both have now. This place
is unbelievable and it’s really changed
our lives.”
LEARN MORE
ABOUT NUTRITION
Our culinary and nutrition education
programs offered throughout the year
provide you with hands-on experience
preparing a variety of healthy meal options
and learning how to make the right
choices to feel your best. See our website
at www.reh-fit.com for a complete
program schedule that includes these
great classes:
• What Can I Eat? Healthy Meal
Planning for People with Diabetes
• Grocery Store Tour
• Gluten: Taking a Look From
a Naturopathic Perspective
• Food and Mood – Eating to
be Happy and Energetic
• Got Questions About Your
Blood Sugar?
• DASH Diet Eating Plan
12 | REH-FIT POWER
GETTING ACTIVE
WITH DIABETES
Ken Liwiski had a decision to make when his doctor told him the
news. “He told me I was pre-diabetic and that I needed to lose
weight or he was going to put me on medication,” recalls Ken.
With a family history of diabetes,
Ken knew it was time to take action.
“I didn’t want to diet. I wanted to
change. I had heard about the
Get Active with Diabetes program
at the Reh-Fit Centre so I told my
doctor about it and he encouraged
me to sign up.”
Get Active with Diabetes is a
10-week program of exercise
and education that helps reduce
the risks associated with diabetes.
Led by the Reh-Fit’s inter-professional
health team, participants learn more
about how to overcome barriers
to physical activity, how to plan
meals, set goals, and manage
complications and medications.
For Ken, the program provided the
motivation he needed to introduce
changes to his lifestyle. “I learned
a lot from the dietitian and now
understand more about what to
eat and how to read the labels
when I go grocery shopping.”
The program also provides a
prescription for exercise that helps
participants determine how much
exercise is required, how to make
progress in their workouts, and
how to monitor their activity.
Suzy Siemens, Chronic Disease
Program Manager at the Reh-Fit,
says that this program has been
very effective in helping people
reduce or eliminate the need for
diabetes medication. “For most
people, exercise is a great way to
reduce the risk of getting diabetes,
but for those who have it, it can be
equally effective in keeping the
disease in check.”
With a goal of getting the
recommended 150 minutes a week
at his target heart rate, Ken set out to
learn more about the machines and
fitness options available. “I use the
track and treadmill and have learned
how to use a variety of machines,
which is helping me strengthen my
upper body and lose some of my
belly. The staff was excellent in
helping me figure out what to do.”
motivated by the program, that I
attended the Reh-Fit Centre an hour
in advance of each session to get in
a good workout beforehand, then
joined the group sessions to achieve
my goals.”
The last time Ken returned to see his
doctor, the response was much more
positive. “I’ve lost 15 pounds and my
blood pressure, which had been
inching towards the high range,
is normal. And of course my blood
sugar is now in the normal range.
There’ll be no need to take any
medication and my doctor said he
was proud of me!”
Of course not all benefits are
measured in the doctor’s office.
“I feel great and sleep great and my
wife says I’m easier to get along with,”
says Ken with a smile. “I have a lot of
reasons to stay healthy – my wife,
Each class within the Get Active with my family, my charitable foundation,
and a business that relies on me.
Diabetes program consists of a half
I’d recommend this program and
hour of education, a half hour of
individual exercise, and a half hour of this facility to anyone!”
group exercise. “For me, the timing of
this program was just right. It’s made
a difference in terms of pursuing my
goals and learning what it takes to
mentally achieve them. I was so
Getting active with diabetes | 1 3
IMPROVE YOUR
QUALITY OF LIFE
Get Active with Diabetes helps reduce
the risks associated with diabetes such
as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease,
poor blood sugar control, high blood pressure,
and high cholesterol. Group sessions are held
twice a week to support you as you adopt
a healthy lifestyle.
With the guidance and support of Reh-Fit staff,
you will learn more about:
• the benefits of exercise
• overcoming barriers to physical activity
and healthy eating
• self-monitoring of activity (log book
and pedometer provided)
• self-monitoring of blood sugar levels
(pre- and post-exercise)
• diabetes meal planning and food labels
• exercise prescription for diabetes
– how much, how hard?
• foot care
• goal setting and building confidence
• managing stress and time
• diabetes complications and medications
• progressing your fitness program
• nutrition – blood glucose control
Visit www.reh-fit.com for program start dates
or call our Chronic Disease Program Manager
at 204-488-5859.
KEN LIWISKI
14 | REH-FIT POWER
“THE ARTERY THEY
CALL THE ‘WIDOWMAKER’
WAS 100% BLOCKED”
After the experience Roger
King recently went through,
it’s no wonder he sings the
praises of the Reh-Fit Centre.
“I woke up from a sound
sleep feeling nauseous,
sweaty, and with pain in my
elbow. I asked my wife to call
an ambulance. It turned out
that the artery they call the
‘widowmaker’ was 100%
blocked,” says Roger.
In addition to the blocked artery, Roger’s
heart had sustained significant damage
requiring that he spend nearly three
weeks in the hospital undergoing surgery
followed by three days of total sedation
and then recovering in intensive care.
The event came as a surprise for a man
who was reasonably healthy with no
history of heart disease, but what came as
an even bigger shock was how quickly his
body had deteriorated during his hospital
stay. “I couldn’t walk out of the hospital –
I had completely lost my muscle strength.
When I got home I had to use a walker.”
Roger’s doctor recommended the
Reh-Fit’s Cardiac Rehabilitation program
as a way to regain his health. “Within
a week of getting home, I got a call from
the Reh-Fit Centre and I registered for
the four-month program.”
Cardiac Rehabilitation program | 1 5
ROGER KING
But Roger had a long way to go. “When
I started the program I was still bandaged
from the surgery and very nervous. The staff
had me do a fitness test on the treadmill
and I couldn’t even last two minutes.”
He realized he wasn’t alone on his road
to recovery as others in the class shared
their stories. “I found the program very
beneficial because everyone was in
a similar situation. But the staff is so
encouraging and provided such great
personal attention that we all started
to slowly show signs of improvement.”
Roger completed the program and
he, along with his wife, decided to join
the Reh-Fit as members. The change
in his fitness level in a matter of months
has been extraordinary. “Now I do
everything – including all of the high
intensity classes – although I’m usually
a beat behind,” he adds with a laugh.
“I’ve also started running and I really enjoy
the group fitness classes. For me, classes
like Indo-Row and Cross Training are very
motivating plus I’ve been able to meet
a lot of new people along the way.”
His health issues also motivated him
to make some other lifestyle changes.
“I’ve adjusted my eating habits and am
now semi-retired. I think that job stress
may have been a contributing factor
to my heart health.”
While he continues to re-build his strength,
Roger says he’s enjoying the results of
his commitment to good health. “I feel
fantastic but know my limitations. I’ve lost
about 20 pounds since my surgery and my
doctor is amazed at my progress. I couldn’t
have done this without the help of the
Reh-Fit. I appreciate that this is a safe
environment for someone like me and that
gives both me and my wife peace-of-mind.”
When Roger reflects on the past year,
he’s pleased with the progress he’s made.
“If I can do it anybody can. I don’t think
I really appreciated how far I had to come. I’m
motivated to continue because I want to live
to see grandkids and travel with my wife and
enjoy life – things we’ve worked so hard for.”
Now with a trip to Italy booked in his calendar,
he’s well on his way to doing just that.
MORE ABOUT
THE CARDIAC
REHABILITATION
PROGRAM
If you have recurrent angina, peripheral
artery disease, recently suffered a heart
attack, or undergone heart surgery or
coronary angioplasty, the Reh-Fit
Centre’s Cardiac Rehabilitation program
can help. As one of Canada’s foremost
cardiac rehabilitation programs, it
includes a combination of exercise and
education and involves a team of
dedicated professionals including
physicians, nurses, exercise specialists,
dietitians, and a psychologist.
More than 15,000 Manitobans with heart
disease have accessed the Reh-Fit’s
program to regain their quality of life.
Cardiac rehabilitation helps you:
• understand the level of activity
you can handle safely
• restore your health and strength
• improve your diet and lifestyle
• reduce cardiac symptoms
• develop a sense of well-being
and confidence
• reduce depression and anxiety,
which often develop during recovery
• decrease your risk of subsequent
heart attacks.
Participants pay a modest fee, with the
rest of the cost covered by the Winnipeg
Regional Health Authority. Financial
assistance may be provided based
on individual need.
16 | REH-FIT POWER
IMPROVING
YOUR
HEALTH
STARTS
TODAY
On a cold winter day,
Barb Smith struggled
as she climbed the stairs
to her second floor office.
More than just winded
and out of breath, she
realized she was running
out of excuses and
needed to make a
change for the better.
BARB SMITH
“I sent an email to my boss and took a
half day off. I drove straight to the Reh-Fit
Centre to find out more about a program
called ‘Healthier Weigh’ that I had seen
on their website. I knew if I waited until
4:30 pm, it would be dark and cold and
I wouldn’t come. I was tired of hibernating
and promising myself I would start a diet
and get more active. I knew if I didn’t do
it then, I wasn’t going to,” says Barb.
Faced with a series of life challenges over
the past seven years, including the loss
of her husband and providing care for her
father, Barb knew it was time to focus on
her own health.
“I arrived at the Centre and the staff
person at the front desk assured me
I was in the right place. They made me
feel comfortable right away,” recalls Barb.
The staff also confirmed that the
Healthier Weigh program, an awardwinning program aimed at people with
a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or greater
who are looking to lose a significant
amount of weight, was the right choice.
“I knew I’d be comfortable because
everyone in the class was all in the same
situation. There was so much support
with a dietitian and guest speakers plus
I met with a sports medicine doctor
and a physiotherapist to talk about the
arthritis in my knee.”
For Barb, the program and the
connections she made within the class
marked a turning point in her life. “I lost
6.8% of my body weight and since I’ve
joined, I’m down 27 pounds. I’ve got more
to lose but Healthier Weigh taught me how
Improving your health starts today | 1 7
WHICH WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
PROGRAM IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Establish and reinforce your weight goals for a lifetime with programs that offer
hands-on education, physical activity, coaching, and nutritional consultation.
HEALTHIER WEIGH
This award-winning program is ideal if you have a Body Mass Index (BMI)
of 30 or greater and are looking to lose a significant amount of weight.
Our team of professionals works with you to make sustainable lifestyle
changes. Participants meet twice weekly, once for education and group
discussion and once for group-workouts.
KICK START TO WEIGHT LOSS
Have a BMI of 25-29.9 and are looking for help to lose those extra pounds?
Kick your fitness up a notch and learn how to maximize weight loss.
INDIVIDUALIZED NUTRITIONAL COUNSELLING
Book a one-on-one meeting with a dietitian to target specific nutrition needs.
WEEKLY WEIGH-IN
A Reh-Fit dietitian will be available to weigh you and offer practical tips
to help manage your weight more efficiently.
to set goals in a way that feels manageable
and achievable. I learned that I’ve got to
be ready and have the desire and now
I’m seeing results.”
Barb continues to stay in touch with the
people she met in her Healthier Weigh
class and shared a personal training
session with one of the other women
in the group.
Now a year after starting the Healthier
Weigh program, Barb continues to make
the Reh-Fit a priority in her week. “I pencil
in the Reh-Fit on my calendar and work at
planning meals ahead of time.” In addition
to her ongoing weight loss, she recognizes
that her commitment to a healthier lifestyle
is paying off in ways she hadn’t anticipated.
“I’ve been able to reduce my blood
pressure medication, and my ultimate
“My experience at the Reh-Fit has been
goal is to come off of it completely.
a 10 out of 10! Everyone here has a story,
But it’s also helped with my mental
so you don’t have to feel intimidated
attitude. My co-workers have really
by anything. I feel like this is somewhere
noticed a positive difference because
I can go where I don’t have to compete
they see me every day and they’ve seen
with anyone else. Plus the staff is
me struggle over the last few years with
fantastic and there are so many
the loss of my husband. Coming here
resources I can benefit from.”
helps with the loneliness and the
changes that you go through when
this happens to you. It gives you a sense
that life goes on and that you can be as
happy as you can be considering the
situation. Overall, I’ve got a much more
positive outlook.”
Catch up with Barb today and you’ll find
her still hard at work and able to enjoy life
more fully. “The absolute best thing that
has happened since joining the Reh-Fit
is now I have the energy and stamina to
enjoy playing with my new granddaughter.
That is so rewarding!”
18 | REH-FIT POWER
LINDA KISILOWSKY
In addition to the Moving Forward with Cancer program, the Reh-Fit offers a wide range
of programs aimed at preventing and managing chronic disease.
MANAGING
CHRONIC DISEASE
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction
Lean, Keen, Kidney Machines
an approach to self-care that can assist
offers education and exercise for those
managing all stages of chronic kidney disease. in managing stress, pain, and illness.
Improve Your Balance and Mobility:
Falls Prevention
for those looking to improve their
balance and prevent falls.
Pathway to Fitness: Exercise for Stroke
and Other Neurological Conditions
improves your quality of life through
an exercise program that deals with the
challenges of neurological conditions.
PACE: People with Arthritis Can Exercise
keeps your joints flexible, muscles strong,
and reduces the pain and stiffness associated
with arthritis.
Hip and Knee Prehabilitation Exercise
ideal if you’re scheduled for a hip or knee
replacement or know that you will need one
in the future. The stronger you are going into
surgery, the better the outcome.
Young Onset Parkinson’s Exercise Program
an exercise program to manage the
symptoms of this chronic disease.
Happy Back
is designed for those with chronic back pain.
Get Better Together
allows you to better manage pain, increase
your energy level, and deal with fatigue
and frustration.
First Steps to Active Living
is designed to help people incorporate
physical activity into their routines by
providing them with the skills to change
their behaviour.
Mind/Body
programs include Yoga, Pilates, and Tai Chi.
Moving forward after cancer | 1 9
MOVING FORWARD
AFTER CANCER
Linda Kisilowsky has been in the fight of her life for the past 12 years. That’s when
she was first diagnosed with stage 4, Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. “I had eight weeks
of chemotherapy and radiation but rallied, and ultimately went back to work.”
Just 16 months later, she was diagnosed
with lung cancer and had one-third of her
lung removed. Lung cancer was followed
by yet another dire diagnosis – her
lymphoma had returned, requiring a bone
marrow transplant. And, when her
lymphoma came back a third time, Linda
received another bone marrow transplant.
That was four years ago, but the stress and
uncertainty of living with this insidious
disease for many years had taken
a physical and emotional toll.
“I was struggling with anxiety and
depression. My doctor prescribed a mild
anti-depressant but it wasn’t really helping,
so I went to see my CancerCare social
worker for advice. She recommended the
Moving Forward After Cancer program
at the Reh-Fit Centre.”
The eight-week program focuses on
addressing common post-treatment
stressors and health concerns and also
provides guidance on how to foster
healthy eating and an exercise lifestyle.
Moving Forward After Cancer is offered
in partnership with CancerCare
Manitoba with the support of the
CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.
For Linda, it was a lifeline to the tools she
needed to feel better and more in control
of her life. “It was the combination of
activity, nutrition, and overall wellness that
has really helped me. This is an amazing
program that has allowed me to deal with
the anxiety and depression.”
The social aspect of the program was
a bonus for Linda who benefitted from
talking to other people who were facing
similar challenges. “This has been the
nicest place because you see people
of every age and every ability.”
Keeping a regular routine and
incorporating activity into her daily life
has been helpful in alleviating her stress.
“I’d arrive here in the morning for the
program and we would do aerobic
activity one day and then resistance
training. Once a week we’d walk and use
the elliptical machines. The staff would
show us what to do and help us adapt
our workouts to our physical ability.”
Modifying her diet has also helped to
improve her sense of well-being. “I feel
better when I eat better. Now I’m more
aware of everything I’m eating and try to
incorporate better choices. It’s not a diet,
but more of a way of life.”
Participating in the program has
encouraged Linda to adopt a more
positive way of thinking. “I didn’t think
I would make it as long as I did but every
time I was hit by something new, I survived.
I feel very fortunate and my focus is on
trying to stay well.”
Now that Linda has completed the
program, she continues to connect with
other participants. “I’ve stayed in touch
with everyone and we meet once a month.
I’m happy I came to this program – it’s done
exactly what it promised to do – help me
move forward with my life.”
20 | REH-FIT POWER
TERRY PARSONAGE
Giving back to the community | 2 1
GIVING BACK TO
THE COMMUNITY
For the thousands of people who rely on the Reh-Fit, their journey to
the Centre is often about what they receive – the resources they need
to improve their health. That’s the way it started for Terry Parsonage over
20 years ago but along the way he decided it was time to give back.
“I started coming to the Reh-Fit in
my 40s as a way to stay fit. However,
I discovered that I had a heart
issue – atrial fibrillation. I had surgery
that was successful, but now I feel more
than ever that at age 62 the Centre
is where I’m supposed to be.”
In fact, while membership fees cover
much of the day-to-day operations of the
Centre, the cost of replacing major assets
such as equipment and making repairs
to the building are significant. These
costs are partially covered by the Reh-Fit
Foundation but will increase over time.
As a chartered accountant and chartered
financial analyst, Terry decided to
volunteer his services as a member of
the Reh-Fit Foundation’s Finance and
Investment Committee. “I really support
the mission of the Reh-Fit and the work
they do in improving the health of the
community. I also hold the belief that it’s
important to give back to your community
and, in my case, I’m giving back to a place
that has given me a lot.”
With this in mind, Terry contributes annually
to the Reh-Fit Foundation. “I see how many
people rely on the Centre and I feel it’s
important to keep it at its current high
standard. To do that means that donations
are required, so I am happy to do my part.”
In his role as committee member, he’s
discovered even more about the Centre.
“What many don’t realize is that there are
more than 355,000 visits to the Reh-Fit
each year and those visits result in a lot
of wear-and-tear. As the building ages,
the cost to maintain, replace, and repair
the Centre and its amenities continues
to grow.”
Mike Sampson, Chair of the Reh-Fit
Foundation Board of Directors, says that
more people who understand that the
Centre represents a prescription for better
health are realizing that they can make
a difference by donating. “The Foundation
is a registered charitable organization that
provides financial support to the Centre.
Through donations, we are able to repair
and replace equipment, introduce new
chronic disease programs, host important
research to improve community health,
and even ensure that those who cannot
afford our services still have access.”
Greater demand for services and
increasing membership are also adding
to overall costs. Mike adds, “This year the
Centre needs to raise $1,100,000 to keep
things at a safe and acceptable level.”
For Mike, it’s easy to get behind the
work done at the Centre. “Every day
we see that donations are being used
to change and save lives. Both the
Centre and the Foundation have also
achieved accreditation from Imagine
Canada’s Standards Program. This
means that our donors and the public
can have complete confidence that we
are operating in an ethical, accountable,
and transparent manner.”
Terry nods in agreement. “We are adhering
to the highest possible standards and I think
that the services the Reh-Fit provides are
likely the services that virtually everyone will
need at some point in their lives. We want
to make sure that it continues to operate as
a well-managed community asset so that it’s
still here when you need it.”
Gifts can be made online at
www.reh-fit.com or by calling the Fund
Development Officer at 204-488-9023.
22 | REH-FIT POWER
RESEARCH
DELIVERS
INNOVATION
There are few fields
where needs are changing
more quickly than they
are in disease prevention
and management.
As a result, creative and effective
solutions are always being sought.
This is why the Reh-Fit Centre is
developing its capacity to host and
participate in scientifically sound research
studies. Applications are reviewed to
ensure that the studies are consistent
with the Centre’s mission and vision.
Applications are also evaluated for ethics
approval, compliance with the Personal
Health Information Act, adequate funding,
and equipment and staff requirements.
WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP
The Reh-Fit Centre works with other health care providers and partners so that we
can offer specialized healthy living programs more efficiently and cost-effectively
than we could on our own. We are grateful to our partners who include:
Canadian Mental Association,
Winnipeg Branch
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada,
Manitoba Division
CancerCare Manitoba
Osteoporosis Canada,
Manitoba Chapter
CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
College of Medicine, Faculty
of Health Sciences, University
of Manitoba
Corydon Primary Care Clinic
Here are the studies that are currently
in progress at the Reh-Fit:
The Kidney Foundation of Canada,
Manitoba Branch
• Walking speed to determine optimal
aerobic exercise intensity for patients
at risk of cardiovascular disease
Manitoba Falls Prevention Network
• The Prehab Study – pre-operative
rehabilitation for reducing
hospitalization following coronary
bypass and valvular surgery
• The impact of a pre-operative
exercise program on fitness outcomes
following bariatric surgery
• The effect of a dual-task exercise
program for improving balance,
mobility, and cognition in older adults.
Manitoba Renal Program
Movement Disorder Clinic
Parkinson Society Manitoba
Alzheimer Society Manitoba
The Arthritis Society
The Heart Failure Clinic and Cardiac
Sciences at St. Boniface Hospital
The Mature Women’s Centre and
Bariatric Surgical Program at Victoria
General Hospital
Winnipeg Regional Health Authority
JOIN THE REH-FIT ENERGY TEAM!
Do you like to meet new people, get
involved in special events, or share your
knowledge? We are looking for people like
you to be ambassadors for our chronic disease programs, to help others
feel comfortable at the Reh-Fit, assist our Membership Services team,
or be involved in organizing our special events.
Volunteering on the Energy Team is a great way to meet new friends
and give back to an organization that has made a difference in your life.
To find out more, send us an email at [email protected]
REH-FIT CENTRE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2014/15
REH-FIT FOUNDATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2014/15
David Thompson, CA
Chair
Mike Sampson
Chair
Albert Krahn
Past-Chair
Audrey Vandewater
Vice-Chair
Scott Bailey, CMA
Vice-Chair
Catherine Kloepfer, CGA, FCA
Treasurer
Pat Kloepfer, CA
Treasurer
David Horne
Secretary
Matthew Guberman
Secretary
Susan Boulter
Rossana Buonpensiere
Barry Brown
Tim Burt, CFA
Tim Burt, CFA
Scott Cale
Liz Findlay
Gordon Greaves, CA
David Horne
Mike Hicks
Janeen Junson
Cliff Lazareck
Albert Krahn
Linda Vincent
Kaitlyn Lewis
Dr. Bruce Roe
Gary Pachal, CA
Sue Boreskie
Chief Executive Officer
Ron Pradinuk
Charitable Registration Number
10765 9765 RR0001
David Thompson, CA
Sue Boreskie
Chief Executive Officer
Charitable Registration Number
87046 0540 RR0001
EXECUTIVE
MANAGEMENT TEAM
MEDICAL ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
Sue Boreskie
Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Amarjit Arneja
Patrick Harrington
Director of Finance
Dr. David Hochman
Janet Cranston
Director of Support Services
Dr. Pravinsagar Mehta
Dr. Thang Nguyen
Medical Director
Dr. Grant Goldberg
Dr. Neal Lerner
Dr. Thang Nguyen
Dr. Florin T. Padeanu
Dr. Sepideh Pooyania
Dr. Mike Routledge
Dr. Stephen G. M. Wong
VISION
To be the best health and fitness centre in Canada in building the health
of the community, for optimum quality of life.
MISSION
The Reh-Fit Centre is a not-for-profit organization with a mission to enhance
the health and well-being of its members and the community by providing
innovative health and fitness services through assessment, education,
and exercise in a supportive environment.
1390 Taylor Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3M 3V8
Phone: 204.488.8023
www.reh-fit.com
April 2015