Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017

health

wellbeing SPRING | 2017

BONE HEALTH

GET ACTIVE

SEASONAL ALLERGIES

NUTRITIOUS FOOD

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Page 2 - North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017

Research shows hay fever is nothing to sneeze at RECENT research has uncovered the impact of hay fever symptoms on the lives of Australians with the condition.

The results of the Facing Allergies Can End Stigma (FACES) survey showed that people’s social interactions, romantic relations, work productivity and self-esteem were negatively impacted by hay fever.

The survey showed 6 in 10 (61 per cent) respondents said their hay fever made them feel less attractive.

Two in five (43 per cent) reported cancelling or changing social plans and a quarter (26 per cent) had taken a sick day as a result of their hay fever.

The survey results have been revealed as part of the Hay Fever Help campaign.

The initiative is reminding people living with hay fever that their lives don’t have to be dictated by their hay fever and to seek help from a doctor for advice on management options this spring.

People affected may experience troublesome symptoms, such as nasal congestion; itchy, red or watery eyes; runny nose and sneezing, particularly during spring.

While some Australians can successfully

self-manage their hay fever, some continue to struggle to keep their symptoms under control.

Clinical Associate Professor Richard Loh, an allergy specialist, says uncontrolled hay fever can have a huge impact on the quality of a person’s day to day life.

The recent episode of thunderstorm asthma in Australia also has experts calling for people with hay fever to be vigilant with their symptom control.

Associate Professor Loh says many people affected by hay fever may also experience asthma symptoms and should visit their doctor to ensure they are prepared before peak pollen periods.

‘If you wheeze during spring or have uncontrolled hay fever, see your doctor for appropriate advice,” said Associate Professor Loh. People with hay fever can visit www.

HayFeverHelp.com.au to check the daily pollen prediction and find out more information.

For more information about your own hay fever symptoms, speak to your healthcare professional.

SEASONAL PUBLICATION DATES North East

Covering 3 local shires and 4 regional newspapers reaching an estimated 25,000 readers across NE Victoria.

Summer edition published 8th December 2017

Autumn edition published 6th April 2018

Winter edition published 6th July 2018

Don’t miss out on being part of the next edition!

If you wish to promote your business or service please contact our friendly team: Alpine Observer & Myrtleford Times call Jenny 5731 3305 jking@nemedia.com.au Wangaratta Chronicle call Laura 5723 0131 lbiglin@nemedia.com.au Ovens & Murray Advertiser call Ellen Funston 5723 0132 efunston@nemedia.com.au

Seasonal Menace | You should keep a close eye on your hayfever symptoms.

stroke

Don’t let be your first warning AUSTRALIANS are being urged to check whether they have an irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation, which dramatically increases the risk of stroke.

A new White Paper released by hearts4heart identifies atrial fibrillation (AF) as the cause for 6000 strokes every year, with one-in-four of these occurring in people who are undiagnosed and therefore unable to take preventative measures.

While AF can be detected by a simple pulse test to check heart rate, as many as 30 per cent of the 460,000 Australians with the condition remain undiagnosed and at heightened risk of stroke.

Left untreated, an irregular heartbeat can cause blood to pool in a chamber of the heart and form a clot that can travel to the brain, causing a devastating stroke.

Tanya Hall, CEO of hearts4heart, is urging Australians, particularly those aged over 65 years or with existing heart conditions, to make an appointment with their doctor to get tested.

She is also encouraging them to routinely ask for pulse testing during blood pressure and general health checks – an important step since AF is not always picked up by a single pulse reading.

“Atrial fibrillation-related strokes can be prevented, but diagnosis remains the critical first step.

“With AF costing the health system $1.63 billion every year, there is no excuse for complacency,” she said.

Stroke Foundation chief executive officer Sharon McGowan said “stroke remains a leading cause of disability and death in Australia and atrial fibrillation is an important and treatable risk factor for stroke.”

“We don’t want a stroke to be the first time any Australian discovers they have an irregular heartbeat,” Ms McGowan said.

“Pulse checking is quick, it’s simple and could ultimately save lives.”

While a healthy heart generally beats between 60 and 100 times per minute, atrial fibrillation may cause this to increase to more than 400 beats per minute.

The condition is associated with a five-to-sevenfold increase in the risk of stroke and a threefold increase in the risk of heart failure.

More information is available at www. hearts4heart.org.au.

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North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017 - Page 3

Age no barrier to

regular exercise

ROLAND Marek reckons he might be allergic to sitting still.

A former Melbourne resident, he moved to Wangaratta to be closer to family about four years ago, and prior to his move, had had major surgery on his back and knees.

But for as long as he could remember, he had taken walks with his wife every morning to break up the day as well as be active and social, and at one point was also a keen golfer.

Keen to get back into his active lifestyle, he joined up with Wangaratta YMCA just over three years ago, making friends with local frontline coordinator Cyn Frampton.

“I thought, I’ve got to do something,” Roland said of maintaining his health.

Today, the friendly octogenarian (who is turning 90 this December) is a familiar sight to many at the YMCA. Coming in an average of four times a week, Roland follows a schedule of exercises designed for him by YMCA trainer Mike Paul.

These gentle workouts include five

minutes on the exercise bike at the beginning and end of each session, and a circuit of different weight bearing exercises using the various machines in the gym.

The whole circuit takes him 30-45 minutes each time.

Roland said he loved taking part in exercise, and said for him, coming to the gym was as much a social time as a time to work on his fitness.

“It breaks up the day,” he added.

“It does me good.

“I never was one for doing nothing.”

He urged people of all ages, but especially seniors, to make sure they were regularly active, adding that it was essential for all over wellbeing as well as physical health.

“Your body will say thank you, but you’ve got to make a habit of it,” he said.

“You have to make an effort.

“You don’t have to be embarrassed to come and do your thing.”

More information is available by contacting Cyn and the team at Wangaratta YMCA on (03) 57221723.

PHOTO: Kylie Wilson

Staying Active | Wangaratta resident Roland Marek is a regular gym goer, exercising several times a week at Wangaratta YMCA even as he approaches the age of 90 this December.

Wangaratta’s Premier Audiologists & Hearing Clinic with support for hearing aids including sales & maintenance, ‘everyone deserves to communicate’

don’t

miss out on the

important

things in life

ȏ Professional Hearing Tests - audiometry, speech discrimination & tympanometry ȏ +HDULQJ 5HKDELOLWDWLRQ IRU SULYDWH 2ɝFH RI Hearing Services clients ȏ “Try before you buy” hearing aids & connectivity devices ȏ Industrial Hearing Screening ȏ Ear Protection (water & noise)

- 5pm Monday - Friday angaratta 9am 82 Docker St, Wangaratta Phone: 03 5722 4433 udiology www.wangarattahearing.com.au

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Page 4 - North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017

Have a

load of fun on the run

WITH only weeks to go, excitement is building for the third annual Fox Run. This event is a major fundraiser for Milawa and Oxley Primary Schools and committee member Carolyn Cutler, who came up with the idea for the event, encouraged locals of all ages, particularly families, to get involved.

She first thought of the idea for the event when trying to find an event that she and husband Joe, as well as sons Sam and Finn, could compete in as a family.

Carolyn said having the event to work towards help encouraged all members of the family to be more active and spend more time together, and it has also increased her personal fitness and energy levels.

“We want to get people who wouldn’t normally do these things to have a go,” she said of the Fox Run. She recommended the event for families as it included lots of fun elements and distractions to keep younger ones amused, as well as challenging the adults.

The Fox Run is a fun run with a difference, combining obstacles, mud and colour in a bush setting at Oxley Recreation Reserve.

The course is designed to appeal to all ages and fitness levels and the main running events are three waves of 2.5km, 5km and 7.5km Fox Runs.

The day is set to have a community feel, with stalls and plenty of refreshments available, and plenty of prizes to be won.

The Milawa Fox Run takes place on October 21 and more information is available on www.foxrun.org.au.

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Are you thinking of getting involved in the Fox Run or other upcoming fitness events, either alone or as a family?

Take this advice from Carolyn Cutler to put your best foot forward. ̽ ,QFUHDVH \RXU GDLO\ DFWLYLWLHV LQ VPDOO increments: whether it’s a walk around the block or running around the backyard, the key is just to get more active. ̽ 6HW VPDOO JRDOV DQG ZRUN WRZDUGV them: once you have attained these goals, set your sights on being faster than before, or competing in more difficult events. ̽ 'RQ̵W IRUJHW WR KDYH IXQ ̽ 'RQ̵W MXVW VLW RQ WKH VLGHOLQHV ̰ JHW XS and get involved. ̽ 5HPHPEHU WR VWD\ K\GUDWHG DQG VXQ smart, and while it is important to get out of your comfort zone, don’t overdo it. ̽ 7KH )R[ 5XQ FDQ EH D VSULQJERDUG to other events, like Tough Mudder, Miss Muddy, Spartan races or colour runs.

Off and Running | Events such as the annual Fox Run can help encourage children and families to be more active. PHOTO: Marc Bongers.

A Fundraising Event for Milawa & Oxley Primary Schools

Sprint it. Run it. Walk it.

It’s your choice!

21 OCTOBER 2017 Oxley Recreation Reserve

The Milawa & Oxley Fox Run combines obstacles, mud and colour in a natural bushland setting. Gather your friends and family; dress up and be prepared to have some fun with plenty of challenges for all fitness levels. Every participant receives a medal and there are some fantastic prizes to be won in every event.

Event Timetable:

8.30am – 7.5 km Insite Real Estate Fox Run 9.30am – 5 km Telstra Fox Run 10.30am/11am/11:30am – 2.5 km Sportsmans Warehouse Fox Run (Waves 1/2/3) 12.00pm – Milawa v Oxley Tug O War Grand finale – Brown Brothers Fox Drop Raffle PLUS, our family focused event has plenty to offer: Helicopter Scenic Flights )DFH 3DLQWLQJ .LGV (QWHUWDLQPHQW %OXHDUWK $FWLYLWLHV *DPHV -XPSLQJ &DVWOH %XEEOH 6WDWLRQ +RW 6KRWV 7HQQLV /LYH PXVLF E\ ¶&DW /XOLH· 0HUFKDQGLVH 5DIIOHV )RRG 'ULQNV 0DUNHW 6WDOOV

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register now at www.foxrun.org.au WANGARATTA (03) 5722 2629

/milawaoxleyfoxrun

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North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017 - Page 5

Ensuring

h t l a e h e n bo a big priority

IN the leadup to World Osteoporosis Day on Friday, October 20, people in the North East are being encouraged to work towards the future and take a closer look at their bone health.

The theme for World Osteoporosis Day theme 2017 is: “Love your bones, protect your future�.

With over 160,000 fractures expected to happen in 2017, Australians are being encouraged to self-assess their bone health and understand their risk of osteoporosis.

New state and territory reports released by Osteoporosis Australia showed that fractures represented the largest component cost (up to 70 per cent) of the overall cost of the disease.

The reports confirmed hip fracture remains the most costly type of fracture In Australia and generally the hardest recovery for patients.

But combined fractures at other sites (eg:

wrist, spine, rib, arm and leg fractures) are very common.

Osteoporosis Australia recommends any patient over 50 who experiences a fracture from a minor bump or fall should be investigated for osteoporosis.

People are also encouraged to visit the online bone health self-assessment Know Your Bones, or visit their nearest medical professional specialising in bone health.

The website provides a summary report showing results and risks and users 50 years+ also receive a fracture risk assessment (over five and 10 years).

With over 100,000 visits to the website already it is a valuable tool helping Australians understand their risk, and the website can be found at www.knowyourbones.org.au.

For more information about osteoporosis visit www.osteoporosis.org.au, or call the national tollfree patient information line on b

Inner Health | Bone health is in the spotlight in the lead up to World Osteoporosis Day.

PHOTO: Shutterstock.

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Page 6 - North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017

Bowen therapy and its uses IF you are tired of being in pain, and suffer from back or neck pain, sore muscles, digestive problems, headaches, hormonal problems or hayfever, then Christos Miliankos from North East Naturopathic Group believes Bowen Therapy can benefit you.

What is it and how it works Mr Miliankos said Bowtech, the original Bowen Technique, is a gentle form of body work in which subtle moves performed over the muscles and connective tissue send messages deep into the body, retrieving cellular memory of a preferred, relaxed, balanced way of wellbeing. “Results can be remarkable, even from the first session; often only a few sessions are needed to correct the presenting problem,� he said. “There are frequent but very essential pauses throughout the session that allows the body time to respond and begin the healing process. “The practitioner can target a specific problem or address the body as a whole. “The technique addresses not only the musculoskeletal framework, but also the fascia, nerves and internal organs.

“The body’s integrated response improves circulation and lymphatic drainage and aids assimilation of nutrients and elimination of toxins.�

Can the Bowen technique help me?

Mr Miliankos said the original Bowen Technique is extremely gentle and is considered appropriate for anyone from pregnant women to newborn babies, the frail and the elderly.

He added that it can assist recovery from many conditions, from traumatic injury to chronic illness, depending upon each individual’s capacity to heal. No adverse side effects have been reported.

Mr Miliankos said the technique should be considered for: Ě˝ %DFN SDLQ DQG VFLDWLFD Ě˝ 'LJHVWLYH DQG ERZHO SUREOHPV LQFOXGLQJ ,%6b Ě˝ (DUDFKH HDU LQIHFWLRQV DQG PLJUDLQHV Ě˝ )LEURP\DOJLD FKURQLF IDWLJXH syndrome Ě˝ .QHH DQNOH DQG IRRW SUREOHPV Ě˝ 0HQVWUXDO DQG KRUPRQDO LUUHJXODULWLHV Ě˝ 1HFN VKRXOGHU SUREOHPV LQFOXGLQJ frozen shoulder Ě˝ *URLQ SDLQ SHOYLF WLOW DQG XQHYHQ OHJ length

Bowen Therapy (evening) classes starting in November 2017 Would you like to learn Bowen Therapy?

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Therapeutic | Christos Miliankos says Bowen Therapy can address a variety of illnesses.

Stay on top of your

allergies

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Contact Christos at christosmili@yahoo.com or 0411 037 475 and visit http:// bowentraining.com.au/bowentherapy-instructors/boweninstructor-christos-miliankos for dates and details.

Exp er t,

Change to an exciting new career or help assist family and friends with their ailments? This is an exciting new opportunity in Wangaratta.

Put wellness in your hands... become a Bowen therapist with Bowen Training Australia (RTO#41134).

Bowen therapy is a remedial softtissue therapy that is easy to learn and quickly applied.

Flexible study options available!

7KH &HUWLĂ€FDWH ,9 LQ %RZHQ Therapy (10533NAT) is Nationally Recognised.

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In 1974, he invited Oswald Rentsch and his wife Elaine to study with him and document his procedures, and honouring their promise to Bowen, they began to WHDFK WKH WHFKQLTXH LQ b Since then, over 20,000 therapists worldwide have undertaken Bowen training.

If you are interested in learning Bowen Therapy, give North East Naturopathic Group a call, as they are organising evening classes starting in Wangaratta in November.

Christos Miliankos (Accredited Int’l %RZHQ ,QVWUXFWRU KROGV D 'LSORPD RI Specialised Bowen Therapy and is a member of the Bowen Association of Australia.

Call the North East Naturopathic Group on (03) 57222889 to see how they can help you, and book your session.

v/21d09066-v16/40-17

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North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017 - Page 7

Jewelled haloumi and

spiced vegetable bake Combine vinegar and extra olive oil and season to taste.

Pour dressing over the hot vegetables, sprinkle with fresh mint and serve.

THIS deliciously simple mid-week meal from Dairy Australia makes a nice change from the usual and also just happens to be gluten free and meat free.

Don’t be put off by the quantity of ingredients, it’s actually really simple and you probably have a lot of them in your fridge or pantry.

This recipe and others like it can be found at www.legendairy.com.au.

Method Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan forced).

Place vegetables in a large baking paper lined roasting tray, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with spices, season with salt and toss to coat evenly.

Bake for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine currants, pistachios and honey and place evenly on each slice of haloumi to form a topping.

Remove the vegetables from the oven and make a few indentations in the vegetables to fit the haloumi.

Nestle the haloumi in among the roasted vegetables and cook for a further 10 minutes or until vegetables are cooked and haloumi is warmed through.

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Details & Registration Forms available online & at reception.

ALL PROCEEDS TO YMCA OPEN DOORS - helping people in need in our community. ** HALF PRICE EARLY BIRD ENTRY FOR SHORT & LONG COURSE EVENTS - ENTER BEFORE 18 OCTOBER **

$$ CASH PRIZES $$ & YMCA MEMBERSHIPS TO BE WON INCENTIVE PRIZES FOR SCHOOLS, SPORTS CLUBS & WORKPLACES NEW EVENT FOR SWIM LESSON KIDS

NEW CATEGORY - MASTERS! MORE DETAILS & REGISTRATION FORM TO DOWNLOAD: www.wangaratta.ymca.org.au

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Wangaratta Wangaratta Indoor Sports Sports and and Indoor Aquatic Centre Aquatic Centre

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Page 8 - North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017

Raising awareness of proper FROM sores to cuts, to sites of operations and medical procedures, wounds can sometimes be overlooked when considering health care.

But non-healing or chronic wounds affect thousands of Australians every year and can cost the health system billions of dollars.

Wound Awareness Week – taking place from October 16-20 - is a joint collaborative project between Wounds Australia and the Wound Management Innovation Cooperative Research Centre.

The week’s focus is one of advocacy directed at the general public and consumers to gain increased awareness of wounds.

Those behind the awareness week are asking the public to “Be Wound Aware� and get informed on the proper care of wounds, as well as the warning signs that a wound is infected, ulcerated, or not healing properly.

A wound is any damage or break in the surface of the skin, which can be accidental, surgical or a symptom of an underlying condition.

Wounds heal differently for everyone, depending on circumstances, health conditions of the individual, and the level of care being provided.

Ideally, wounds should improve in appearance and also shrink as they heal.

If you have the following signs, it can

indicate that a wound is not healing as it should: Ě˝ 3DLQ DQG KHDW Ě˝ 2GRXU Ě˝ &KDQJH LQ FRORXU RI VNLQ Ě˝ *HQHUDOO\ IHHOLQJ XQZHOO Ě˝ ([FHVV IOXLG DQG Ě˝ 6ORZ KHDOLQJ If you are suffering from a wound, there are a number of things you can do to help your body to heal more effectively.

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If you are seeking more information on wounds, either yourself or for a loved one, contact your medical professional without delay.

More information on wound care and wound awareness week is also available on www.woundaware.com.au.

wound care

Health Food | Nourishing food such as fish or meat can not only help your overall health, but also hasten the healing process of any wounds on your body.

$90,000

Final Teams Meeting Thursday 12th October 6.30pm at the Magpies Clubrooms Wangaratta Showgrounds

51%

All participants are encouraged to attend for pizza and learn about the venue and requirements for the relay. Team bags will be distributed.

Major Sponsor since 2008

Our Relay Goal

Wangaratta Relay For Life Ho

Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd October, 2017. Wangaratta Showgrounds.

32 Teams – 35 Target pe

lives

We’ve raised

$45,973

in Wan

garatta k/31d53501-v8/4017

Register. Participate. Donate. www.relayforlife.org.au

facebook.com/RFLWangaratta

Everyone is welcome. To get involved contact: Relay4LifeWang

Heather Trevisan M: 1300 65 65 85 E: wangarattarfl@cancervic.org.au

s i t i r h t r a o e t Don’t let os rule your life wangarattachronicle.com.au

OSTEOARTHRITIS affects approximately 25 per cent of the Australian population over the age of 65.

It is not a natural progression of aging and can be managed with a multifocal approach to individual care.

Knee osteoarthritis has a significant impact with limitation of movement and pain associated with activities such as walking, climbing stairs, accessing a car and getting up and down off a chair or the ground.

Sport, work and general daily activities of living are affected.

The knee may be swollen, tender and stiff worsening with rest or increased activity and weight bearing.

As mobility is lost other problems can occur such as postural changes which may lead to back pain and problems with other lower limb joints and muscles.

Many people are under the impression that this condition is progressive and cannot be helped and therefore they battle on without understanding that there are a range of options for management.

In May 2017 the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care released the Knee Clinical Care Standard which provides guidelines for managing affected individuals.

These standards are available online.

Comprehensive clinical assessment, diagnosis, education and self management,

North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017 - Page 9

Problem Area | Proactive management is key in minimising the impact of osteoarthritis, particularly where the knee is concerned. weight loss and exercise therapy, medication and ongoing monitoring form the basis of management.

Your physiotherapist can assess and diagnose your problem and provide education,

exercise programs and ongoing monitoring to help you manage your problem and hopefully avoid further deterioration and improve activity levels.

Surgery is a last resort and many years can

be gained with an appropriate management strategy.

Contact the Physiocare Wangaratta office on (03) 57215874 for further information or an appointment.

injured or suffering pain in your hands or upper limbs?

Are you

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Page 10 - North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017

dementia

wangarattachronicle.com.au

Both people with and carers feel socially disconnected, survey finds PEOPLE living with dementia and carers experience embarrassing situations, feel strongly disconnected, feel less competent and sometimes feel useless, a new survey has found.

In a survey conducted by Alzheimer’s Australia, 94 per cent of respondents who have a diagnosis of dementia felt that they encountered embarrassing situations as a result of their dementia, while almost 60 per cent of carers who responded found themselves in embarrassing situations because they are caring for someone living with dementia.

What is encouraging is the same survey found one in two members of the general public are frustrated by their lack of understanding about dementia and want to know more about how they can help.

The survey sparked calls for greater awareness and understanding of dementia by the general public so people living with the condition and their carers can be supported to feel less disconnected.

“The way we respond as a community can leave people with dementia and their carers feeling socially embarrassed and

uncomfortable,” Maree McCabe, National CEO Alzheimer’s Australia said.

“But small actions can make a big difference.

“A great starting point is treating people with dementia and carers with the same thoughtfulness, care, respect, kindness and inclusiveness you always have.

“If a person encounters challenges in their everyday activities they are naturally more likely to withdraw socially and become less engaged with their friends and family and will tend to drop activities they may have enjoyed for most of their lives,” Ms McCabe said.

Both carers and people living with dementia reported high levels of feeling lonely and set apart from others in their networks and in the community.

In Victoria, there are an estimated 104,622 people living with dementia. This is projected to increase to 280,241 by 2056.

There are an estimated 413,000 people living with dementia in Australia and an estimated 1.2 million people involved in the care of someone with dementia.

Isolating | Dementia can be a disconnecting experience for patients and carers alike.

Without a significant medical breakthrough, the number of people with dementia is expected to grow to more than half a million people by 2025 and 1.1 million people by 2056.

To download the report go to www.

fightdementia.org.au/dementia-andstigma.

For more information and support call the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500 or head to www.fightdementia. org.au.

Suffering from Aching legs? Leg cramps? Unsightly veins?

Dr Peter Chu, vascular surgeon, is dedicated to providing effective and prompt treatment of circulatory and venous conditions to the Northeast region of Victoria. He has recently established The Melbourne Vascular Surgery & Vein Clinic, and can now, in conjunction with Melbourne Vascular Imaging, bring the latest minimally invasive or "walkin walk-out" treatment strategies for varicose veins, spider veins and other venous disorders to the Northeast region.

Patients who suffer from VXSHUÀFLDO YHQRXV GLVHDVH may present syptoms of: 9DULFRVH YHLQV BEFORE

AFTER

SUPERFICIAL VENOUS REFLUX DISEASE IS PROGRESSIVE. SYMPTOMS CAN WORSEN OVER TIME IF LEFT UNTREATED.

Wangaratta (Wangaratta Cardiology & Respiratory Centre) 29 Clark Street Wangaratta VIC 3767

6ZROOHQ OLPEV 6NLQ FKDQJHV DQG XOFHUV /HJ KHDYLQHVV DQG IDWLJXH 3DLQ Contact MVI to organise a consultation (03) 9348 9446

Echuca (Echuca Consulting Suites) 25 Francis Street Echuca VIC 3564.

‘bulk billed vein assessments available’

Phone (03) 9348 9446 | Fax (03) 9329 3051 | Email info@mvi.net.au

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North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017 - Page 11

Rutherglen woman shares

s s o l t h g i e w secrets

A YEAR has made all the difference in the life of Rutherglen resident Robyn Funston.

“This time last year I was 20kg heavier, I had type 2-diabetes and I was feeling sluggish and miserable,” she said.

“All this turned around within 21 days as I started to ‘Live Clean’.

“My 32 year old daughter came home after living in Cambodia for seven months and felt she needed to do a detox.

“She had been referred to a detox and fat release program promising to release between 7-12kg of toxic fat and renew her energy levels, so I decided to try it with her.”

Robyn said that the program, which works using products from the Modere brand, worked very effectively for her, and she has not looked back.

“I am 62 and have struggled since a young age with my weight and have tried many different diets to shift the weight.

“The program works in conjunction with an amazing company, Modere, who have a philosophy of creating 10 million homes living clean by 2020.

“I changed my bathroom products to the Modere range that have been combined using thoughtful science with careful creation and most importantly toxin free.

“I included supplements that supported my living clean lifestyle and assisted with lifting toxic fat from my liver.

“Along with a healthy yet limited diet the weight started to drop off, literally everyday the number on the scales decreased.

“My energy levels increased and my general mood was more positive as I worked towards 21 days of detox.

“That’s what you have to remember, it’s only 21 days and I lost 15 kilograms in just 21 days.

“My daughter lost seven kilograms in 21 days.”

She added that it is a lifestyle she has easily been able to maintain.

Reach Out | People are being called upon to share their mental health struggles this Mental Health Day.

Reduce mental illness stigma on October 10

Big Difference | Robyn Funston has lost 20kg in the past year.

“We have both continued to live clean using these amazing products and the weight has continued to fall off.

“I would recommend this program to anyone who believes they have tried everything to lose weight but have been unsuccessful.

“The biggest benefit of this program is detoxing your body and understanding the importance of eliminating everyday toxins out

Robyn lost 15kgs in 21 days!

of our lives in order to ‘live clean’.”

She urges people curious about the program to contact her on 0438 357216 for more details.

“Don’t try it on your own, please contact me for further information and support,” she said.

“There are a few secrets I can share with you for even better success.

“I couldn’t have done it on my own, and I want to share my health success with you.”

Ellen lost 7kgs of toxic fat in 21 days!

Detox and release 7-12kg of toxic fat in just 21 days.

This World Mental Health Day - October 10 Mental Health Australia is calling on the nation to further reduce stigma and promise to see mental health in a more positive light.

‘Do you see what I see?’ challenges perceptions on mental illness and aims to reduce stigma.

‘Do you see what I see?’ promotes a positive approach to tackling an issue that affects one in five Australians.

‘Do you see what I see?’ aims to shed a new light on the mental health conversation… and will again incorporate the successful #MentalHealthPromise initiative, which last year saw the Governor General, Prime Minister and Opposition Leader and thousands more Australians make a mental health promise to themselves.

Make your #MentalHealthPromise and find out more useful information at www.1010.org.au.

Page 12 - North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017

contribution

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Unpaid carers’ recognised nationally in October NATIONAL Carers Week is dedicated to recognising and celebrating the contribution Australia’s 2.7 million unpaid carers make to the nation.

Anyone at any time can become a carer and National Carers Week is an opportunity to raise community awareness among all Australians about the diversity of carers and their caring roles.

Carers make an enormous contribution to communities as well as the national economy.

People can become carers for loved ones under a range of circumstances, including disability, terminal illnesses, chronic conditions, mental illnesses, issues with alcohol or other drugs, or if a person is frail aged.

If all carers in Australia decided to stop performing their caring role, it would cost the country $60.3 billion per year to replace those supports, which Helping Hand | Carers make an invaluable contribution to society. equates to over $1 billion per week.

DRUG & ALCOHOL FREE EVENT

GET NOTICED! If your business supplies retail or commercial goods and services to this market place, then this is the publication for you!

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National Carers Week provides you with a chance to show your appreciation and learn about carers and caring in Australia.

National Carers Week is an initiative of Carers Australia, with primary activities funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services (DSS).

National Carers Week 2017 will be celebrated throughout Australia from October 15–21.

For more information, an opportunity to donate to Carers Australia, learn more about the role of carers, or to say thanks to Australia’s many carers, see www.carersweek.com.au, as well as Carers Australia’s various social media channels.

People are also encouraged to hashtag their social media posts with #carers2017 to join the larger conversation about the importance of carers.

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North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017 - Page 13

Putting your best forward

foot

WHATEVER your age or fitness level, the team at North East Podiatry are keen to help you put your best foot forward in your daily life.

Marking 20 years in business this year, North East Podiatry was established in 1997 by Damien Rossato and worked out of a shared facility with North East Physiotherapy in Rowan Street.

Continued growth brought about a move to a larger site in Chisholm Street.

North East Podiatry then expanded to Yarrawonga and Benalla.

Further growth led to custom made clinics being built in Wangaratta 2012 and Benalla 2017 with one of the business’ long term staff, Alyce Currie, buying into the company.

North East Podiatry staff consists of eight podiatrists, five receptionists and a full time practice manager.

They pride themselves in having welcoming staff, state of the art equipment,

highly qualified podiatrists to ensure their patients receive the highest level of care to rival any in Australia.

North East Podiatry’s Damien Rossato said that with the arrival of the warmer weather, more and more people are looking to kick start or increase the intensity of their walking or running regimes.

However, he advises consulting with podiatrists to ensure your fitness routine does not to lead to injuries or chronic pain.

Mr Rossato said some of the most common causes or sources of pain when walking or running include incorrect footwear, poor biomechanics and muscle tightness and weakness.

If you are looking to increase your current rate of exercise, he recommends heading into North East Podiatry for a running/walking assessment to identify any weaknesses that need to be addressed.

“Advice can then be tailored for you to achieve your goals,” he said.

On your feet | It is a good idea to seek podiatry advice if you are looking to change or increase your exercise plans.

“This may consist of footwear advice, strengthening/stretching programs, orthotics, or advice on how to increase your walking and running to reach your target goals.”

He added that “the right shoe is the basis to any good walking/running program.

“Our podiatrist can educate you on the

features you need to look for in a shoe that will be specific to you and the activity level you’re looking to achieve.”

To make an appointment with one of the team, contact North East Podiatry on (03) 57212533, visit their premises at 39b Cusack Street, Wangaratta, or see the website at www.northeastpodiatry.com.au.

RUN & WALK PAIN FREE Ask our staff for a running assessment today!

Our team are always one step ahead!

› Routine Nail Care › Corn and Callous Removal › Ingrown toenail surgery › Footwear advice

› Diabetic assessments › Sports injuries › Orthotic assessments › Children

www.northeastpodiatry.com.au

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39b Cusack Street, Wangaratta | Ph: (03) 5721 2533

› Wart Treatment › Stretching advice › Heel pain › Forefoot pain

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Page 14 - North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017

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1

Book a physical

2

Annual physicals are an important assessment of your overall health.

Often health issues creep up slowly on the inside and don’t manifest outward symptoms until it’s a bigger problem.

An annual physical and blood work will help you stay on the preventative side of illness and maintain better wellness.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Sign up for an event

No better way to keep yourself motivated and accountable than committing to some type of an event. Committing to a charity walk, 5k, mud run or obstacle course can really help you have an event to look forward to. This will help keep you motivated to condition and train. Enlist some of your friends and have fun with it.

3

Pump up your play list

If you are still listening to music from December, do some spring cleaning and get some fresh new music to help keep you motivated during your workout. Research shows that music not only distracts you from the physical challenges of exercise but also helps you work harder. Finding music that uplifts your energy and helps get you in the zone FDQ EH D JUHDW EHQHͤW

4

Get a new pair of sneakers

The average sneakers only maintain good arch support for up to six months.

If the arches are worn down then the foot support will be affected and this can cause pain to your feet, ankles and knees. If you are unsure of what type of athletic shoe to wear, check with a specialty store that will assess your foot structure and gait. Based on your foot, gait and lifestyle, they can prescribe the best type of shoe for you.

5

Clean out the pantry

In winter we often hibernate in our houses and hide behind loose clothing.

If you want to trim down your body fat, start with your pantry. The pantry can often house some of the unhealthiest choices in your kitchen. Get rid of the sugary and starchy items like cookies, chips, cereals and breads. Remember, whole foods are the best for your health.

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North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017 - Page 15

Movember

campaign focuses on mental health IT’S not always easy to know how a man is really doing, which is why the Movember Foundation is encouraging the people around men to take themselves off mute and ask a man if he’s doing OK. Leading men’s health charity the Movember Foundation is helping to ignite potentially life-saving conversations through their Unmute – Ask him campaign.

In addition to funding more than 1200 innovative men’s health projects across 21 countries focused on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention, the foundation is also shedding light on the role of men’s support networks – family, friends and partners – who can help men to remain mentally well through practicing active listening and maintaining social connections.

Disguised as a series of how-to videos where a man takes the viewer through simple tasks, such as ‘Make a soda can fishing rod’, ‘Never run out of a gas again

with this simple trick’ and ’Fix a Flat’ – each video demonstrates the importance of taking the initiative to ask men how they are doing, and not just assuming everything is OK. While the video subtitles appear to mirror the men’s actions, when the viewer unmutes, they’ll hear a completely different story – about men who are beginning to show signs they are struggling.

“Our research has shown that a majority of men say they are there for their friends when they need support, yet considerably fewer men are prepared to go to someone when they’re struggling themselves – bringing to life the need for those around men to take themselves off ‘mute’ and start the conversation,” says Craig Martin, global director, Mental Health & Suicide Prevention at the Movember Foundation.

“As part of our strategic vision to support men and boys being mentally

Sharing Is Caring | Checking in with friends, for example over a coffee, is a low key way to find out if they may be struggling. healthy and taking action during tough times, backed by their friends, family and community, Movember is building capacity around men, to ensure more men talk and feel the benefits of being heard,” he said.

“The network around men currently do not reach out enough to ask how guys are really going.

“We can all play a part in reducing the rate of male suicide by sparking a potentially life-changing conversation – the simple first step is just to ask and listen.”

As well as encouraging people to share the Unmute – Ask him campaign videos

on social media, Movember also wants people to start conversations with men they care about in just four simple steps: 1. Ask how they are doing 2. Listen without judgement 3. Encourage action 4. Check in regularly To learn more about how you can effectively help the men in your life open up and to view and share the Unmute – Ask him videos visit www.movember. com/iwanttoask.

To find out more about how to participate in Movember itself, see www.movember.com, or the campaign’s social media.

OCTOBER IS BREAST AWARENESS MONTH EARLY DETECTION SAVES LIVES At Wangaratta X-ray, we are dedicated to providing a professional and caring breast imaging service, including: Digital Low Dose Mammograms Breast Ultrasounds Minimally Invasive Breast Biopsies Talk to your GP and schedule your breast imaging appointment today!

Ph. 57 200 700 101 Rowan St, Wangaratta (Corner of Rowan & Green Sts) Bulk Billing Medical Imaging K31D23737-V9/4017

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Page 16 - North East Health & Wellbeing - Spring 2017

ADVERTORIAL

Support at home: the choice is yours Recent changes to the way homebased aged care support services are provided are designed to give older people greater choice and control over the way they are supported to continue living independently at home.

Suzie Don Leonard, Manager Community and Home Supports at Uniting Goulburn North East says that when it comes to choosing a service provider, it’s important to do your research.

‘Once allocated a Home Care Package, you now have choice over which service provider you want to manage your package, which is a major shift in the way services are delivered and puts you in the driver’s seat,’ says Suzie ‘You can decide what is important to you, and choose the provider that’s best suited to meeting your needs.

And if they don’t live up to your

expectations, then you are free to look for another provider that can.’

The service provider that’s most likely to deliver the kind of services you need should know your local community intimately, and work collaboratively with local organisations.

For Wangaratta couple Marian and Tony, having to rely on help from a community organisation was a new experience. Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease 18 months ago, Tony became eligible for a Home Care Package.

‘At Uniting Goulburn North East, our services are local, delivered by local people for people in our local community,’ says Suzie.

‘And we don’t just deliver services with our own staff, we work with other service providers and community organisations to ensure we meet the needs of our clients. We don’t see other providers as competitors, we see them as our partners. That’s what community is all about.

‘We want to give our clients every

possible option, so they can make the best choices for them. It also means that people who have a Home Care Package with another provider usually have the option of keeping their current care workers if they move their package to us.’

Having been recommended to try Uniting, Marian, who is Tony’s full time carer, got in touch with us and they haven’t looked back since.

‘I worked until the age of 70 so we’ve always been busy. We rely on each other for a lot of things. However, the support we receive from Uniting has taken the pressure off us and our

family and friends,’ said Marian.

‘Every Tuesday, Tony goes on a bus trip which takes him somewhere different every fortnight. He just thinks the sun shines out of his bus driver.’

‘We’ve been very happy with Uniting.

The support we have received has been absolutely wonderful, especially from our caseworker. She really knows us personally.’

‘It’s the workers at Uniting which make it great.’

Get in touch with us to have a chat about Home Care Packages and respite services for carers. We’re here to help guide you through the process, explore multiple options with you, and link you in with the services you need.

Call us on 03 5723 8000, or drop into our offices in Wangaratta or Shepparton.

Stay independent living in your own home Uniting Goulburn North East 03 5723 8000 vt.uniting.org UnitingCare Goulburn North East has joined together with other community service organisations in Victoria and Tasmania to form a single organisation Uniting.