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REH-FIT 2013 REH-FIT MAGAZINE MANAGING DIABETES WITH EXERCISE 4 TAKE YOUR FIRST STEPS 7 LOSING WEIGHT – GAINING CONFIDENCE 10 EXERCISE FOR ARTHRITIS 13 COPING WITH CANCER 14 AGING WITH ENERGY 17

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Page 1: Reh-Fit · 02 | REH-FIT pow ER 2013 In november, the Reh-Fit centre was selected as the “2012 Facility of the Year” by the Medical Fitness association (MFa)

R E H - F I T

2013 Reh-Fit Magazine

ManagIng DIabETEs wITH ExERcIsE 4

TakE YouR FIRsT sTEps 7

LosIng wEIgHT – gaInIng conFIDEncE 10

ExERcIsE FoR aRTHRITIs 13

copIng wITH cancER 14

agIng wITH EnERgY 17

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02 | REH-FIT powER 2013

In november, the Reh-Fit centre was selected as the “2012 Facility of the Year” by the Medical Fitness association (MFa). This international award is presented annually to a medical fitness facility that clearly serves as a benchmark for the industry, and whose results others can emulate.

sETTIng a nEw

Global Standard cEnTRE REcEIvEs InTERnaTIonaL awaRD as FacILITY oF THE YEaR

a nEw pREscRIpTIon FoR HEaLTH Every day at the Reh-Fit centre, we see the powerful effect that exercise and a healthy lifestyle can have on people of all ages. From boosting energy and losing weight to eliminating pain and reducing the use of medication, the Reh-Fit offers a new prescription for health that delivers lasting physical, mental, and emotional benefits. we take a comprehensive approach – offering a wide array of programs and services to assist you in your journey – no matter your ability. You may choose to become a member or participate in hundreds of fitness, education, culinary, and specialty programs open to the community. but, for many people, taking that first step can be daunting. That’s why I’m so pleased to share with you just a few of the many inspiring stories of people in our community who have turned to the safe, welcoming environment of the Reh-Fit to achieve their personal goals. It’s never too late to start because it’s never too late to start enjoying your life to the fullest. Read on. and if you’d like to explore a healthier, more active life, call us or stop by for a tour. You’ll be amazed at how far that first step can take you!

Sue Boreskie CEO, Reh-Fit Centre

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HELpIng pEopLE LEaD HEaLTHIER LIvEs | 03

Michael Richmond, Chairman of the MFA, says that the Reh-Fit Centre was chosen because it is an exceptional facility. “The Reh-Fit contributes significantly and consistently to the advancement of the medical fitness industry through its more than 300 programs and services.”

In June 2012 the Reh-Fit Centre was recognized as Canada’s first certified medical fitness facility, indicating that it has met the highest standards of quality and service. There are only 44 certified medical fitness facilities in the U.S., Canada, and South America. The Facility of the Year award places the Reh-Fit at the top of this elite group.

Sue Boreskie, CEO of the Reh-Fit Centre, says they are honoured by the award, which confirms that Manitobans are benefitting from a highly effective approach to wellness. “We work with over 10,000 people every year who prove that the prescription for better health starts here. We offer so much more than just physical activity, but also weight management, health education, and chronic disease programs—for optimum quality of life.”

Honourable Jim Rondeau, Minister of Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs, agrees this is a win for Manitobans.

“It is a huge point of pride that the Reh-Fit Centre is now recognized as one of the leading certified medical fitness facilities in the world. But more importantly, it means that Manitobans have access to this facility and can be proactive in improving their health and reducing their dependence on the health care system.”

Dr. Neal Lerner, the Reh-Fit’s Medical Advisor, believes that the approach advocated by the Reh-Fit Centre is the future of health care. “We know that exercise is medicine. Through the programs and services we provide, we see how people are able to manage chronic conditions and, in many cases, reduce their use of prescription medication.”

Last year Manitobans made more than 350,000 visits to the Reh-Fit Centre.

HELpINg BUILD A BETTER MANITOBAIn February 2013, the Reh-Fit Centre also received an Award of Merit from Recreation Connections Manitoba. The award recognizes the innovative programming, community participation, and service excellence in a state-of- the-art facility designed to enhance the quality of life of Manitobans.

sETTIng a nEw

Global Standard cEnTRE REcEIvEs InTERnaTIonaL awaRD as FacILITY oF THE YEaR

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manaGinG diabeteS

exerciSewith

when her husband joined the cardiac rehabilitation program at the reh-Fit centre in July 2011, Janice realized she now had time to join as well. “we would come here twice a week and walk five laps. two months later we were up to walking 14 laps and that’s when the weight started to come off,” says Janice. when the four-month cardiac rehabilitation program was over, Janice told her husband, “we have to keep coming. it’s really improving our lives.”

She took the reh-Fit’s basic weight-training program and began adding it to her walking routine. Since then, she’s tried the arc machine and rowing, and now walks up to 35 laps or four miles on the track, five days a week.

“For me the basic thing is to start small. if you can only walk one lap, then that’s where you start. when i used to come home from work – i didn’t have energy. but this gives me a lot of energy – i can run with my grandkids and i can also jog here on the track. i could never do that before.“

Janice has adjusted her food choices as well, reducing salt and sugar, and replacing high fat snacks with healthier options. “i’m now 72 pounds lighter and don’t have to shop for plus-size clothes anymore. i gave away all my old clothes and i’m not going back.”

even more gratifying is the effect that her new lifestyle has had on her medication. “in September, i went off two types of insulin i was taking and the doctor reduced the oral dosage of diabetes medication. in march i went off all diabetes medication – it’s been almost a year. and my doctor has reduced my blood pressure and cholesterol medication in half,” adds Janice.

Janice believes that exercise is medicine and that it’s a lot less expensive than prescription medication.

“i was spending about $2,800 a year and now i’m down to about $700. what i’m saving in medicine more than pays for both of our memberships.”

She is also appreciative of the reh-Fit centre and the support it provides.

“everybody is friendly and there’s no judgment. nobody expects more from you than you can do. the staff is really helpful and that makes you feel comfortable. it feels like a family.”

her commitment to a healthier lifestyle has paid off in so many ways. “i think it saved my life. i look at my sister who also has diabetes and a lot of health issues. i knew i didn’t want to lose my sight or have some of the other complications associated with diabetes. my doctor says i’m an inspiration for her other patients.”

by the time Janice latschislaw retired from a busy career in January 2011, she was dealing with a variety of health issues. “i had been diagnosed with diabetes

in 2002, had high blood pressure and cholesterol, and was a stress-eater,” recalls Janice.

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HELpIng pEopLE LEaD HEaLTHEIR LIvEs | 05

cHRonIc DIsEasE In ManIToba: wHaT aRE THE cosTs?

exerciSewith

janice latschislaw

From: Chronic Disease in Manitoba: What Are the Costs?

In Manitoba, over half the population over the age of 19 years lives with a chronic condition such as arthritis, diabetes, or asthma.

Depending on the illness, Manitobans living with chronic conditions use anywhere from 2.6 to 8.2 times more health care dollars than those without a health condition.

Here is a look at the dollar impact of chronic illness. In 2005/06 and 2006/07:

> Stroke. It cost $22,000 to treat someone who has had a stroke, versus $3,800 for someone who has not had a stroke.

> Coronary Heart DiSeaSe. It cost $16,000 to treat someone with coronary heart disease, versus $3,489 for someone without the disease.

> DiabeteS. It cost $14,000 to treat someone with diabetes, versus $3,882 for someone without diabetes.

> aStHma anD CHroniC obStruCtive Pulmonary DiSeaSe. It cost $8,509 to treat someone with asthma, versus $4,093 for someone who does not have asthma.

Research shows regular exercise can play a significant role in preventing diseases and chronic conditions, helping enhance brain function and independence in the aged, and in combination with sensible nutrition could save billions in health care costs.

The bottom line is that regardless of your age, weight, or athletic ability, exercise is good for you. As your body adapts to regular exercise, you’ll get stronger and fitter, feel better, and enjoy life to the fullest.

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06 | REH-FIT powER 2013

For Judy Knight, there didn’t seem to be an explicable cause for her chest pain and shortness of breath. Dozens of tests revealed there were no blockages, but she experienced heart palpitations and quickly became exhausted with any exertion.

Fortunately, Manitoba doctors are now armed with a new prescription for health – the First Steps program at the Reh-Fit Centre. Designed for people working with their physician to manage or prevent a chronic condition, First Steps gives participants eight weeks of education, exercise, coaching, and support and puts them on a path to an improved quality of life.

Judy registered for the new program and recalls that her doctor was concerned about having her resume activities. “My heart would race and it was scary,” says Judy. “But the Reh-Fit staff watched me very carefully, did an assessment and monitored me, advised what to do, and how much. It was very personalized and very gradual.”

Through the program, Judy participated in a group session twice a week with additional exercise sessions prescribed by the Reh-Fit’s professional staff.

“I can now walk around the track 10 times on my own which is a huge improvement. The classroom instruction was also very helpful. The group was small enough that you could get to know people and it gave me confidence because you saw others at similar stages and weren’t embarrassed when you couldn’t do something fully and they were experiencing the same thing. That helps you push ahead,” says Judy.

She continues to gain greater independence and feel better. “I feel stronger, have fewer heart palpitations, and less shortness of breath.”

Now recently retired, Judy is focusing on continuing to improve her health.

“I’m going into the second act of my life and realize being healthier is better, so my husband and I are becoming members at the Reh-Fit.”

A visit to her physician confirmed she’s on the right track. “I’ve followed up with my family doctor and he’s happy with my progress – my colour is back and so is my stamina. I can do more without assistance and I feel like the First Steps program has really put me on a new and better path.”

first stepssecondto a act

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HELpIng pEopLE LEaD HEaLTHIER LIvEs | 07

judy knight

take your first steps!Talk to your doctor about the First Steps program or call the Reh-Fit Centre to find out if this program is right for you. Program participants benefit from:

support and guidance

Delivered by our fitness consultants, with support from our dietitians, nurses, and physiotherapy professionals, this ensures you receive one-on-one guidance and expertise throughout your journey.

health and fitness assessment

Your participation begins with an assessment including: Physical Activity Readiness Evaluation, body composition, functional movement analysis, and a strength and flexibility assessment.

health and fitness education

Throughout the program you will learn more about:

> the benefits of exercise > how to modify your risk factors > how to eat healthier > achieving a healthy lifestyle.

Your exercise prescription

Our inter-professional health care team draws on the results of your assessment to provide you with the tools you need to become active and progress through the program.

equipment

Never used exercise equipment before? Our professionals will introduce you to a variety of fitness equipment suited for all abilities and fitness levels.

next steps

After you have completed your program, our professional staff will review the next steps with you. This may include a membership at the Reh-Fit Centre, recommendations for you to become involved in a community based program, or ways to be more physically active at home.

act SuppoRt and guidance

heaLth and FitneSS aSSeSSMent

heaLth and FitneSS education

YouR eXeRciSe pReScRiption

eQuipMent

neXt StepS

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alex yoong

08 | REH-FIT powER 2013

i am happier,

and have moreFeel better,

enerGy!

““

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Shortness of breath prompted alex yoong to see his doctor. “i have a strong family history of heart disease which makes me a higher risk so i thought i should check it out. i ended up having quadruple bypass heart surgery,” says alex.

at the recommendation of his cardiologist, alex registered for the 16-week cardiac rehabilitation program at the reh-Fit centre.

“the program was excellent. it aligns with some of my personal goals of living longer, eating healthier, and being stronger. i learned a lot and came away with some simple things i could do to improve my diet and lifestyle,” says alex.

but the road to recovery wasn’t always easy. “it was hard work getting back to my normal state. the reh-Fit has professional staff from various disciplines and they assisted me and answered any questions i had. they kept a very close watch on our group.”

after completing the program, alex became a member. “i had worked out occasionally before, but never on a consistent basis. now i’m here six days a week and my goal is to get about 150 minutes of activity every week.”

his commitment is paying off. “i am happier, feel better, and have more energy. i look forward to coming to the reh-Fit to work out!”

HELpIng pEopLE LEaD HEaLTHIER LIvEs | 09

renowned cardiac rehabilitation programIf you have recurrent angina, 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.

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jeff burwood

it was his sister’s concern for his health that prompted Jeff burwood to check out the reh-Fit centre. “i was overweight and knew i needed to do something. i took a tour of the centre, saw the indo-row® class, and thought that was the coolest thing. i came the next day and just kept going.”

He joined the Smart Start program and Benches and Bells to gain an understanding of how to safely use the weights and equipment.

“Smart Start is all about the machines, how to set them up properly and how to use them. The instructors took their time explaining everything, which I really appreciated,” says Jeff.

As part of his membership, Jeff made an appointment with the dietitian who introduced him to new ways to improve his eating habits. “Before I would eat just one big meal a day. But to keep my metabolism and energy going, I need to eat smaller amounts throughout the day.”

Since joining the Reh-Fit one year ago, Jeff has lost 140 pounds and plans to lose 40 more. But for him, it’s not just about the pounds.

“When I joined as a big man, I had zero confidence in myself. You just lose self-respect and keep gaining the weight. Now I’m in the best shape of my life – even better than when I was in high school!”

He works out five days a week at the Reh-Fit and incorporates running, walking, elliptical, cycling, and the Wave for a cardio workout. “I’ve started building confidence and everyone needs that. Now I’m walking straighter and people are noticing that my shoulders are back.”

Jeff is ready to renew his membership and continue with the lifestyle changes he’s made. “Everyone here is so nice and no one makes fun of anyone for being overweight. The staff is very encouraging and tells me ‘keep going, Jeff’ or ‘I’m proud of you.’ If a 41-year old man who is big like me can come here and do what I did, anyone can.”

Of course some of the benefits are harder to quantify, says Jeff with a smile. “I was talking with a nice woman the other day and I think she was flirting with me. It’s not something I’m used to but it’s something I look forward to now that I’m feeling better about myself.”

loSinG weiGht

GaininGconFidence

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HELpIng pEopLE LEaD HEaLTHIER LIvEs | 11

The Reh-Fit focuses on providing you with the hands-on education, physical activity, coaching, and nutrition counselling you need to feel supported on your weight loss journey.

come experience the important elements of weight and lifestyle management with programs including:

nutRition counSeLLing

our dietitians provide one-on-one nutrition counselling to target your specific nutrition needs.

heaLthieR Weigh

This award-winning program is for people 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

participants, who have a bMI of 25-29.9, meet once a week for a weigh-in, group workout, and motivational discussion.

WeeKLY Weigh-in

our professional staff is on hand to weigh members and provide them with ongoing support.

cuLinaRY pRogRaMS

spice up meals and eat healthier with ideas from our cooking classes. Register for programs such as Low sodium cooking, cooking and Eating Healthy in 20 Minutes, vegetarian cooking, and get out of Your gluten-Free Rut.

“I’ve lost 90 pounds in 10 months and I just keep setting new goals for myself.”

Donna Mathieson kick start to weight Loss participant and Reh-Fit Member

succEssFuLLY ManagE YouR wEIgHT

GaininGconFidence

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remy oertel

arthritiS

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HELpIng pEopLE LEaD HEaLTHIER LIvEs | 13

Her daughter brought her to the Reh-Fit for a tour and she quickly became a member.

“I’m now coming here every day because I realize I have to keep moving,” says Remy who was motivated by others working out at the Centre. “I took the PACE class for people with arthritis. Some participants were in wheelchairs and were so inspiring. I thought if they can do it, so can I.”

But for someone who had never worked out before, she wasn’t sure whether she would enjoy it. “I was so shy and didn’t know anyone, but I’ve made friends.” She also varies her routine and has taken a Tai Chi class and uses the treadmill, bike, walking track, and weights.

“If I don’t come to the Reh-Fit, I feel so stiff and sore. Even walking on the track really helps. Now I have more energy and I’m not taking the medication for my inflammation nearly as often. I realized that no one can help me except myself.”

Remy feels her efforts have been rewarded now that she can continue with one of her favorite hobbies – gardening.

“I thought I’d have to stop, but now I can work in the yard again.”

Both Remy and her doctor have become advocates of the Centre.

“My doctor is happy I’m here and she’s going to recommend it to her other patients. I’ve been giving my friends and family copies of the Reh-Fit brochure and now I have friends from church who come here!”

More reh-Fit PrograMs For PeoPle living with arthritis

> PACE: People with Arthritis Can Exercise

> Arthritis Self-Management Program

> Tai Chi for Arthritis Relief

> Cook Easier with Arthritis

See a complete list of programs at www.reh-fit.com or pick up a copy of our Program Guide at the Reh-Fit Reception Desk.

“some days my hands are swollen and I can’t grip the steering wheel of my car. It’s very painful,” says Remy oertel, age 68, about her rheumatoid arthritis. she had been taking medication and applying heat to help manage the disease that affects her hands, back, spine, and shoulders, but nothing was helping.

arthritiSExERcIsE FoR

the healing power of exerciseRegular exercise can not only make you look and feel better, it can also help prevent and treat almost every disease and increase your lifespan.

Numerous scientific studies show that exercise can play a significant role in preventing diseases and chronic conditions, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, and arthritis.

So, what else can exercise do?

> Reduce arthritic pain, maintain your mobility, and prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s

> Increase life expectancy and prevent the onset of disease

> Prevent and treat diabetes

> Reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke

> Ease symptoms of depression, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost self-esteem

> Reduce your risk of cancer and help you cope with cancer treatment.

Excerpts from The Healing Power of Exercise, IHRSA.

medical advisory board FormedIn 2012, the Reh-Fit developed a new Medical Advisory Board to create a mechanism for feedback so that we can continue to serve the community by providing relevant, evidence-based programs and services that complement the province’s health care services.

The Advisory Board, consisting of 10-12 physicians from a range of disciplines, meets twice a year to inform the Reh-Fit on:

> gaps in community health and fitness programs that we could fill

> agencies or organizations that we could partner with to jointly offer community health programs we could not otherwise offer as effectively and economically on our own

> the type of communication and reporting details that health care providers need from us.

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canceri’m not

In February 2012, as she was training to run a full marathon, Gwen Watson received a shocking diagnosis. “I was told I had breast cancer. I underwent a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery a month later,” says Gwen.

Surgery was followed by six rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. Before her diagnosis, Gwen had been active and worked out regularly. She continued to exercise throughout much of her treatment, and attributes it to helping her regain a sense of control and wellness.

“I ran up until my fourth treatment of chemo and then, when I couldn’t run any more because of reduced lung capacity, I began walking three or four times a week for five miles. Some days that’s all I could do and then I’d have to go home and rest,” says Gwen.

Gwen had seen a presentation in which a doctor spoke about cancer and how exercising during chemo and radiation was important. She broached the subject of continuing at the Reh-Fit Centre with her own oncologist, who thought it was a great idea.

“My oncologist strongly believes that because of my fitness level, I did not have as many side effects. My treatments were more manageable because of my fitness level. I’m stubborn and knew I was physically fit so I forced myself to continue and I think it helped me get through this,” says Gwen.

“I love the Reh-Fit Centre and feel like it’s a really safe environment. I have friends here and a support system and the track is great. I started out by walking the track and using the treadmill, but now I’m adding new things as I start to feel a bit better.”

With her treatments ending just a few months ago, Gwen continues to rebuild her strength. “I’m feeling OK but a little frustrated because my fitness level isn’t there and my stamina isn’t there. After I work out, I’m tired and just about done for the day. But I think that working out has been good for my mind. At least it empowers you because you’re able to do something. I know my life has changed and I have a ‘new normal’ but I’m not going to let cancer take over my life.”

take over my liFe

goIng To LET

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HELpIng pEopLE LEaD HEaLTHIER LIvEs | 15

gwen watson

creating a healthier communityMore education, training, and support are required for the growing number of people in the community challenged with obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and other health concerns. In 2012/13, 4,600 members and over 5,000 individuals from the community accessed our programs and services.

With a goal of creating a healthier, more active community, the Reh-Fit hosts a variety of educational sessions to bring you the latest information in fitness and health. Visit www.reh-fit.com for current and upcoming events, including:

Education SEminarS

Each month, the Reh-Fit Centre offers health, fitness, and nutrition education seminars that 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 BMI to knowing the risks of Peripheral Arterial Disease, the Reh-Fit offers a variety of health screening clinics throughout the year to help you identify and control your risk factors.

activE aging WEEk

During Active Aging Week in September, we offer older Manitobans education seminars and opportunities to attend various activities, to help them get active or stay active and link them with resources in the community.

ExErciSE iS mEdicinE tm

Exercise Is Medicinetm promotes the finding that physical activity, in the right doses, is unparalleled in its ability to prevent and treat chronic disease. During May, which is Exercise Is Medicinetm month, we offer education presentations on the benefits of exercise and run weekly fitness challenges to help stress the importance of 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a week for health benefits.

Smart for Your HEart

During Smart for Your Heart month in February, the Centre delivers presentations on preventing and managing cardiovascular disease, the world’s leading killer. We also hold a Community Open House with a “heart challenge” that offers visitors a cardiovascular assessment that measures their blood pressure, body mass index, and “heart age.”

SpEakEr SEriES

Throughout the year, the Reh-Fit Centre partners with various organizations to offer a variety of guest speakers who make presentations based on their leading edge ideas, reputations in the field, and relevance to members and the community.

take over my liFe

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16 | REH-FIT powER 2013

cuTTIng EDgE REsEaRcHThe Reh-Fit centre serves as a research setting for staff, students, and visiting professionals. current initiatives include:

> calculating the optimum walking speed needed to meet recommendations and get health benefits.

> Examining aging effects on balance and mobility, and comparing the performance between young, healthy, and fit adults (ages 20-30) with adults aged 55-65, and older adults aged 70-85.

> Evaluating the cardiac Rehabilitation program and its effect on the amount of physical activity that clients accumulate in their daily lives during the program and also after they graduate from the program.

FoRMIng paRTnERsHIps FoR wIDEspREaD bEnEFITs The Reh-Fit centre forms partnerships with hospitals and health organizations to offer specialized healthy living services we could not offer as efficiently or cost effectively on our own.

In 2012/13, we were pleased to partner with the following: The alzheimer society of Manitoba, The arthritis society, cancercare Manitoba, corydon clinic, Manitoba In Motion, winnipeg In Motion, Ms society, Manitoba Falls prevention network, osteoporosis canada, the Mature women’s centre and bariatric surgical programs at victoria general Hospital, the Heart Failure clinic and cardiac sciences at st. boniface Hospital, the st. boniface Hospital Foundation, and the winnipeg Regional Health authority.

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HELpIng pEopLE LEaD HEaLTHIER LIvEs | 17

After providing full-time care for five years to her husband with Alzheimer’s, Audrey Kirkpatrick, age 80, knew that she was worn out. “When my husband was placed into a care facility, I was exhausted. In those five years I had no time to do anything for myself and it showed,” says Audrey.

Her son recommended that she join the Reh-Fit Centre and Audrey found the welcoming environment she was looking for. “When I first came here two years ago I was lost and needed something, but wasn’t sure what I needed. I started with a Reh-Fit assessment to see what condition I was in and then the staff made recommendations of things to do.”

Audrey now comes to the Reh-Fit three times a week to walk the track and participate in the Stretch & Strength class. She has also joined two yoga classes where she’s enjoyed the added bonus of making new friends. “After our yoga class, we go for coffee with our group. It’s amazing to meet new people and find out how others are dealing with challenging situations as well.”

For Audrey, the benefits of working out have had a big impact on her life. “I feel healthy and I feel like my mind is working again. I had no life for five years and now I have all kinds of energy.”

Her blood pressure dropped from 165, when she first started, to a healthy 120, and Audrey credits her time at the Reh-Fit to the improvement.

“My doctor is very happy with me. People say I look like a different person – there’s been such a big change in how I feel and how I look.”

Audrey believes that staying active is important as you age. “It’s so easy to sit around and do nothing and that’s just not healthy. You have to work at keeping healthy. The best part of my day is when I come to the Reh-Fit!”

enerGyaGinG with

audrey kirkpatrick

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18 | REH-FIT powER 2013

community health

A LegAcy thAt Benefits

The Reh-FiT FoundaTion CReaTed The LegaCy SoCieTy To pRovide anoTheR oppoRTuniTy FoR individuaLS To deMonSTRaTe TheiR SuppoRT FoR The CenTRe

As a not-for-profit charitable organization, the Reh-Fit Centre is in the business of transforming lives for the better. The Reh-Fit Centre may even have had an impact on your health and well-being. If you are looking for a way to support the Reh-Fit and ensure that others continue to benefit from our help in the future, please consider joining our Legacy Society.

The Legacy Society provides a thoughtful way for you to support the innovation that drives the life-changing programs and services here at the Reh-Fit by including the Reh-Fit Foundation in your estate planning.

The health benefits of active living are now recognized as one of the most important elements in combating disease, enhancing quality of life, and lowering the financial burden on our health care system; and the need for health promotion, prevention initiatives, and chronic disease management has never been greater.

When you let us know that you plan on including the Reh-Fit in your will, it allows us to plan for the future and gives us the opportunity to thank you and to recognize your contribution.

If you are interested in learning more about our Legacy Society and how to support the Reh-Fit through a will, a bequest, a life insurance policy, or any other planned gift, please contact the Reh-Fit Foundation at 204-488-9325 or email [email protected].

Help us to transform the health of our community by leaving a legacy that helps people lead healthier lives.

The Reh-Fit Foundation was created in 1999 to provide financial sustainability for the Reh-Fit Centre in the furtherance of its aims, goals, and objectives.

As the fundraising arm of the Centre, it is responsible for raising the needed funds with the help of the Centre’s volunteers, members, community users, and staff.

Funds raised go towards:

> ADDING INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS to give members and the community at large the greatest opportunity for living healthier lives

> ENSuRING EffEcTIVENESS through research and evaluation that assess the effectiveness of our health and fitness programs in building community health

> STOckING ThE LATEST EquIPMENT to keep pace with developments in health and fitness technology

> ENSuRING AccESS to programs and services by providing financial assistance based on individual need

> kEEPING ThE REh-fIT IN ShAPE for an inviting setting that encourages the community to enjoy regular, healthy active living.

The Foundation accepts a wide variety of gift types, including donations, tributes, and bequests, as well as publicly traded stocks, life insurance, and near cash. It also organizes major fundraising events each fiscal year, and has created the Legacy Society to honour individuals who have included the Reh-Fit in their estate plans.

“It is with deep gratitude that we thank those who donate funds to the Foundation,” said Mike Sampson, Chair of the Reh-Fit Foundation Board.

“They are making an investment in the health and fitness of the community that the Reh-Fit serves.”

A FOUNDATION FOR EXCELLENCE

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HELpIng pEopLE LEaD HEaLTHIER LIvEs | 19

REH-FIT cEnTRE boaRD oF DIREcToRs 2012/13

albert Krahn Chair Ken Lee Past Chair Rossana Buonpensiere Vice-Chair david thompson, ca Treasurer & Secretary

Scott Bailey carol Bellringer tim Burt gordon greaves Matthew guberman david horne Jo Magnifico dr. Bruce Roe

Charitable Registration Number 10765 9765 RR0001

REH-FIT FounDaTIon boaRD oF DIREcToRs 2012/13

Mike Sampson Chair audrey Vandewater Vice-Chair catherine Kloepfer Treasurer Leona Macdonald Secretary

Janeen Balenovic Sue Boreskie Barry Brown tom dooley Judy holden david horne albert Krahn Ken Lee

Charitable Registration Number 87046 0540 RR0001

ManagEMEnT TEaM

Sue Boreskie Chief Executive Officer patrick harrington Director of Finance Janet cranston Director of Support Services dean Luchik Director of Health and Fitness Karyn Sinopoli Membership Services Manager dana Ransom Client Development Manager patti Bérubé Program and Service Delivery Manager Laurel hogan Fund Development Officer dr. neal Lerner Medical Advisor

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1390 Taylor avenue winnipeg, Manitoba R3M 3v8

phone: 204.488.8023

www.reh-fit.com

vIsIonto be the best health and fitness centre in canada in building the health of the community, for optimum quality of life.

MIssIonthe 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.