Family Matters Magazine Winter 2018/2019

Family

PRICELESS PRICELESS

Matters Magazine.ca

Family Focused & Community Centered WINTER | 2019

I WILL TRY

toFix You

THE BASICS OF

Good Nutrition THE IMPORTANCE OF

Breast Screening Walk Your Dog NOT JUST FOR YOUR DOG, BUT FOR YOURSELF TOO

Insurance MYTHS BUSTED

7 Things

TO LOOK FOR ON A HOUSE TOUR

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

Hello Readers!

Thank you for picking up the latest issue of Family Matters Magazine.

It is always a pleasure making connections in this unique community, and then bringing it all together to present it in this format for you, the readers. We have some new contributing businesses this issue, and I am so honoured to be working with them. As well as our contributors in print, we also have even more businesses and contributors who are featured on our website; check them out at www.familymattersmagazine.ca!

Our Family Matters

There are lots of new things happening around here. I’ve heard so much and spoken so much about the sandwich generation. I can tell you now, that I am living smack dab in the middle of it. Like many of you, my aging parents are starting to need us more and more. We have made the decision to have them live here with us. We are thrilled to be able to help them, and are looking forward to our kids having the opportunity to get to know them in a different dynamic. It’s definitely an adjustment for all of us, especially for my parents; it has me thinking about my own future, and what it will hold for me and my husband. I am incredibly proud and grateful for my children and husband, who have been so openminded about the changes, and have stepped up to the plate in every area imaginable. It’s difficult to imagine ourselves aging and needed support.

However, the way our family has come together during this transitional period has me optimistic that when my time comes, I will never have to worry about my children looking after me.

Walk Your Dog Not Just For Your Dog, I wish you and your family an abundance of health, But For Yourself Too..................................2 happiness, and prosperity in 2019. I look forward The Basics of Good Nutrition..................4 to connecting with you in the community.

A Warranty is Not a Guarantee.................6

CONTENTS

Susana Medeiros

Publisher | Owner susana@familymattersmagazine.ca 647.407.5540

Nutrition and Oral Health........................8 Your Weaknesses Do Not Define You......10 Are Your Kids Learning Critical Life Skills?..........................................12 Milton’s New Thermography Clinic, and The Importance of Breast Screening......14 7 Things to Look For on a House Tour.......16

Kendra Guidolin, Editor

Julie Rock, Photographer

Lynn Lockhart, Designer

All editorial content is the property of Family Matters in Milton Magazine and cannot be reprinted in part or in whole without the written permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. The Publisher reserves the right to reuse content and may reuse content in other media forms for the purpose of promotion of the Magazine or the Advertisers. The Publisher does not necessarily endorse the products or services advertised. The publisher makes all efforts to ensure that information is current and accurate. However, the Publisher does not assume liability for errors or omissions. All content is meant for information purposes only. For medical advise, please see your medical professional.

Insurance Myths Busted........................18 I Will Try to Fix You..............................21 A Powerful Partnership: Supporting Your Child by Collaborating With Their School................................................28 Tips for Communicating With Individuals with Hearing Loss.................................32

Walk Your Dog NOT JUST FOR YOUR DOG, BUT FOR YOURSELF TOO B Y: B H AW N A S H A R M A

What if I told you only half of dog parents in North America walk their dog at least once a day?

And a whopping 33% rarely walk their dogs? According to a recent survey, this is all true!

I

’m sure most of us dog parents will agree our pooches are worth their weight in gold with all the unconditional love they give back to us. But sometimes life just gets in the way! As our lives get busy, often our dog’s walks are the first to get traded for the relatively easier “backyard break.” Though not ill-intentioned, we may be harming our pup in more ways than one. Daily walks have many benefits.

Socialization: On walks, dogs meet other dogs and people. The more they interact, the less excitable they get. A socialized dog makes for a better-behaved dog.

Fitness and Weight Control: As per a recent clinical survey by the Association for Pet Obesity, 56% of dogs in Canada are overweight or obese! Studies have shown that for overweight people/ dogs, a 30 minute walk three times each week can reduce blood pressure, increase energy, improve sense of well-being, and lower your weight by 5% and your dog’s weight by 15%. Talk about hidden benefits!

Mental stimulation: On a walk, your dog gets to experience different sounds and smells, which can

stimulate them mentally, and keep boredom away.

This helps deter any unwanted behaviour, like swiping food off counters, scratching and chewing objects they shouldn’t be, and urinating in the house, which are often signs of boredom and anxiety.

All in all, dog ownership comes with equal parts responsibility and benefit. A healthy dog is a happy dog, and this makes for one satisfied pet parent.

One last word of caution: with the holidays just around the corner, the extra indulging for ourselves as well as our dogs, and a busy social schedule is not going to make things easier. Plan to head out on regular, long walks now to keep those extra pounds away, and keep your dog happy for year-long health. On those super snowy or extreme cold days, avoid being outdoors for long periods, and protect your dog’s paws from the salty pavements. Happy ‘Paw’renting!

Bhawna is the owner of Walk N Cuddles, a new dog walking and dog sitting service based locally in Milton that’s borne totally out of her passion for dogs.

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THE BASICS OF

Good Nutrition B Y: T Y L E R V E R M E U L E N & M A R I S S A S Y LV E S T E R

As many of you are well aware, what you eat directly reflects how you feel. When we eat well, we feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally, having higher vitality, better concentration, improved moods and a sense of well-being. More often than not we will also experience increased energy. However, when we eat poorly, we feel fatigued, lethargic, irritable, and often lack concentration, amongst many other things. The lingering question remains: what is “good” nutrition and how does one go about achieving it?

T

he answer is multi-faceted and at times seemingly confusing, but the simplest explanation includes finding consistency in one’s daily routine.

At Simply For Life, we strive each and every day to promote good overall health through the intervention of consuming whole food. We don’t believe in fad diets, quick fixes, or restrictive eating. What we do believe in is that food can be a beneficial form of medicine, and when used correctly, can almost immediately improve health. Whole foods do not contain any ingredient lists or nutrition fact tables; this would mean the majority of your grocery shopping is completed in the outside aisles of your local supermarket. In the produce aisle, you can find fresh, local, and some seasonal produce. A bonus would be only eating what is currently in season. The majority of our daily nutritional consumption should be built around vegetables. When looking at your dinner plate, you should see half of the plate filled with veggies, and the more colourful, the better! The guideline should be anywhere from five to eight daily servings, that range from green to yellow to orange to red, to purple and everything in-between. Many of our required micronutrients needed for cellular processes are contained in these powerhouse colours. We also need these amazing foods to ensure all of our body systems work synergistically.

The remaining portions of your plate should consist of approximately one quarter protein in the form of grassfed beef, chicken, turkey, pastured pork, wild game, fish or shellfish, legumes, lentils, nuts, and seeds, and one quarter healthy starches, such as quinoa, couscous, wild rice, sweet potato, squash, carrots or beets. Finally, we need about two tablespoons of fat; this can be found in avocado, coconut, or olive oil, walnuts, almonds, cashews, and macadamia nuts, and pumpkin, sesame, sunflower, hemp or chia seeds.

As nutritionists, we live and promote the 90/10 rule for a clean eating lifestyle— eating whole, natural, unprocessed foods 90% of the time, and indulging 10% of the time. But these must be on an occasional basis only. With growing rates of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and other health concerns, it is important to strive to eat better each and every day. Do we need to be perfect? No. But should we strive to practice healthy and mindful eating?

Absolutely! Breathing in between bites of food, and chewing until food is liquid before swallowing (ideally, 25-30 chews per bite) can help prevent overeating, and can allow you to really savour the flavours in your food.

The choice of good health is in your hands. Now is the time to own it. Be your own health advocate, and start your better living today.

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A Warranty IS NOT A GUARANTEE

BY DAVID DANIELLI

I remember when I was a kid, my parents would always buy a new appliance based on which brands offered the best warranties. Back then, warranties would guarantee that if something went wrong within a set amount of time, the buyer would be refunded, or the appliance would be replaced by the store or manufacturer.

W

ell, a lot has changed in our world since I was a kid, including what warranties do and don’t do in this modern age.

So, what is a warranty for, and who pays for what?

Recently, I’ve had many customers come in to my store and say, “this unit just a few months old,” or “this product is not performing as it once did,” or even “ I cannot get it to work properly.”

Every manufacturer provides some guarantee to their customer that a certain product will work as it is designed to – at least for a certain length of time – and these manufactures’ warranties are there to protect that person’s investment in their products.

However, sometimes what the customer hopes for and what the manufacturer insures is not the same.

Here are my top five examples of this disconnect between manufacturer and buyer.

1. “I’m having trouble with my vacuum and here is my internet proof of purchase.” Many online sellers are not regarded as an authorized Canadian retailer by the actual manufactures, and as such no warranty service is available or should be implied.

2. “My vacuum no longer picks up as it did when I first bought it.” There are many reasons for this, most of which are not the responsibility of the manufacturer.

The unit may have a clogged filter or accessory, which is not covered under most warranties.

E TH UM U C VA ORE ST

3. “I thought it had a 7 year warranty, so why am I taking out my credit card?” Many warranties today are separated between parts and labour.

In my experience, I’ve found that while the part of one of my appliances was covered by warranty, unfortunately, the labour costs of that warranty replacement part was at the complete discretion of their authorized service company.

4. “I didn’t know this part is not covered.” Many products have what are considered wearable parts. These parts are the equivalent to a car’s windshield wipers, brake pads, and even oil needing a changing; on a vacuum cleaner, brush rolls, belts, bags, and filters are never covered by your warranty.

5. “I did not realize my actions caused anything to go wrong.” If you are using a dry-only vacuum to pick up drywall dust, or you are putting boiling water into the clean water tank of your carpet shampooer, sometimes these pieces of equipment reach their limits, and the manufacturer would not be responsible. Your car may have a bumperto-bumper warranty, but smashing that bumper into a tree is not covered. Always read your owner’s manual.

Thank you for reading my four articles this year, if you have any further questions please contact me at 905876-3394, or drop by the store at 785 Main St, E Milton.

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Nutrition AND ORAL HEALTH

BY CHANTEL SOUSA, CDA II | ESCARPMENT VIEW DENTAL

A nutritious, well-balanced diet is good not only for your general health, but also for your oral health. There are many factors that come into play when relating food with oral health that many may not be familiar with. One of the more well-known factors includes nutrition and diet, whereas mental health issues such as eating disorders, may be less acknowledged.

Many are also unaware of the precautions or preventions needed to take to ensure that one’s oral health remains good, which in turn can reflect an individual’s overall health.

A Nutritious Factor

Nutrition is probably the most familiar link to general and oral health. The food we eat supplies the nutrients that our organs, bones, teeth, and gums need to maintain an overall healthy body. However, with the poor diet of today’s society associated with our busy lives, many are unaware of the dangers it is causing towards our oral health. Many of our foods today contain high amounts of sugars and starches which increase the production of stomach acids that can ultimately erode or weaken the tooth structure.

There are a number of factors that can affect anyone at any age, regarding a person’s dietary intake.

1. Children and teens need a balanced diet to receive enough nutrients so their teeth can develop properly and avoid any risk of serious health or dental issues later on in life.

2. The elderly are at a higher risk of poor nutrition due to their dietary restrictions, medications, and lack of possible dexterity and joint issues. This likely contributes to dentition loss, making it even harder to attain the correct amount of nutrients through food and diet.

3. Adults need a balanced diet to maintain their overall health and oral health.

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If an individual continues with a poor diet and hygiene regimen, it can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and sometimes even an infection causing a serious health concern. Therefore, practicing good oral hygiene and obtaining a full balanced diet will allow one to maintain an overall healthy body.

Are Eating Disorders a danger to oral health?

Many people may not be aware of how mental health issues, such as eating disorders can play a significant role in one’s oral health. Eating disorders are a psychological illness that distorts a person’s relationship with food, which can have a wide range of negative impacts on teeth, gums, and the mouth. A registered practising dietitian has observed that eating disorders are now not only focused on young females, but have also been more commonly seen in: • Elderly women • Male teens • Kids less than 10 years of age Eating disorders appear with severe symptoms, such as reduced food intake called anorexia nervosa, induced vomiting called bulimia nervosa, and overeating or binge eating. Each of these will play its own part in interfering with one’s oral health. There are many factors in eating disorders that contribute to a person’s oral health, such as: WINTER 2019

• • • • • • •

Increase of cavities Dry mouth Altered taste Increase in sensitivity Enlarged salivary glands Teeth erosion Changes in a tooth’s colour, shape and length

One of the most visible effects from the eating disorder bulimia is tooth erosion, which causes the teeth to be sensitive and slowly lose structure due to self-induced vomiting and lack of nutrients. Other eating disorders like binge-eating or anorexia nervosa can cause gum disease or complications which can lead to a greater risk towards one’s general health. Although cavities and decay vary from person to person, eating disorders are still a recognized cause of this occurrence. This is because most eating disorders reduce the flow of saliva causing dry mouth which increases the risk of cavities and other oral infections.

Preventions and Precautions

One of the biggest problems in today’s diets is the amount of sugar we consume in our diets. The average Canadian consumes about 40 kg of sugar each year.

It is safe to say that not only is this harmful for our overall health, but also the biggest cause of tooth decay. The biggest culprits are often: • Chewy and sticky foods, such as raisins, granola bars, candy, and honey which stick to teeth • Sugary snacks like gum, cookies, cakes, and sweet treats which contain high amounts of cavitycausing sugars • Carbonated Soft Drinks; both regular pop and diet pop contain acids that wear away enamel • Fruity drinks and energy/ sports drinks like apple juice, fruit punch, Gatorade, and Monster contain high amounts of sugar and acid leading to tooth damage • Acidic foods and beverages like lemons, iced tea, salad dressings, and wine can cause rapid loss of tooth structure The best way to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle is to commit to a healthy diet. Allowing your body to attain the proper amount of vitamins, minerals, fats, and protein is essential for both your

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oral health and your overall health. Incorporating healthy foods to your diet and keeping up with home oral care will allow you to achieve this. Steps to take: Read food labels (check for amounts and types of sugars, amount of carbohydrates and sodium, and amount of vitamins) • Balance the “bad food” intake • Read food labels (check for amounts and types of sugars, amount of carbohydrates and sodium, and amount of vitamins) • Drink water between meals • Prepare foods in healthy ways (steamed, sautéed, baked) • Avoid fried food • Limit salt intake • Maintain proper oral hygiene. Brush twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste, floss once a day, and scrape tongue on a daily basis • Do not brush teeth for at least an hour after consuming acidic foods or beverages, it will damage tooth structure. Instead, rinse with water, or chew sugar-free gum • Visit your oral healthcare professional on a regular basis for regular cleaning, examination, and advice personalized to your individual care There are a variety of foods that are low in sugar and high in nutrition, such as: • Plain yogurt and hard cheese • Hard-boiled eggs • Apples and mangos • Raw vegetables and beans • Nuts and seeds • Hummus and baba ghanouj • Fish and chicken Typically people do not consider the link between nutrition and oral health except when using the old adage “eat too much sugar and your teeth will rot”.

However, it has recently been proven that there is a much stronger connection between a person’s diet and their oral health than just sugar intake. It is important to take care of ourselves and be mindful of what we put into our bodies, not only for our general health but also for the benefit of our oral health.

Your Weaknesses

DO NOT DEFINE YOU B Y D R . S H E R R Y V A N B LY D E R V E E N

We all have areas of weakness – parts of ourselves that we want to improve, or aspects we wish were different. This is part of being human. By nature, we are all imperfect.

Even when we are working hard to improve ourselves, we will inevitably make mistakes.

W

hen you are unhappy with something about yourself, or something you have said or done, try one or more of the following:

• Remind yourself that this one moment, one aspect of yourself, one thing you have said or done, does not define you in your entirety. You are a multidimensional person with a great deal of other attributes. You are not your weaknesses!

• Ask yourself what this incident tells you about yourself— what motivates or drives you?

• Remind yourself that such moments are necessary for self-growth and learning opportunities.

• Be compassionate and kind to yourself. Be sure your self-talk is as kind and compassionate as how you would speak to a loved one (e.g. child, friend or partner).

• Remind yourself that everyone is imperfect, and you are not an exception.

• Try a mindfulness meditation: focusing on your breath, close your eyes and take a long slow breath in, imagining you are breathing in all of the suffering of others with a similar challenge, and then exhale slowly, imagining you are breathing out healing, love, and compassion for them and yourself. Repeat at least three times.

• Accept your weaknesses, they are part of you, they do not define you, you are okay as you are.

Once you have accepted your weaknesses, if

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relevant, spend some time problem solving how to reduce their impact on your life. (This is different from trying to fix or remove your weaknesses; it is finding a path around them instead, so you can still reach your destination.)

Then, turn your focus towards your strengths.

When you accept yourself as you are and acknowledge your weaknesses, you are in a much better position to cope with whatever life sends your way. Accepting yourself and your weaknesses will allow you to see yourself more fully, as a multidimensional person.

Doing so will: • Allow you to be kinder to yourself.

• Increase your compassion for others despite their imperfections.

• Help you to make life choices that are consistent with who you are, which will improve your overall comfort and happiness in life.

• Help you choose relationships with people who are compatible.

• Make you more aware of situations that make you vulnerable to being unhappy.

• Improve your self-awareness and selfunderstanding, leading to increased clarity regarding life’s decisions.

See our website for the complete article which includes an age appropriate way to teach these concepts to younger children.

WINTER 2019

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ARE YOUR KIDS LEARNING

Critical Life Skills?

BY DIMPLE ARORA

“There is no single effort more radical in its potential for saving the world than a transformation of the way we raise our children.”

- Marianne Williamson

G

one are the days when the path to adulting was straightforward: get a good education which lands a good job, and you’re bound to make a decent living on which to raise a family. In a recent Gallup poll, 87% of people globally are disengaged with their jobs.

We are living in a society where burnout and fatigue are the norm.

Although we are truly blessed with unlimited opportunities to enjoy life, make an impact, leave a legacy, and communicate beyond geographic boundaries, our advances are destroying our mental, emotional, and physical health. We are in a critical time where we must choose which way we are going with our families.

Our kids have access to a world where possibilities for their future are endless, and yet, most kids are struggling with how they feel about themselves

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every day. Many children are already burnt out. They are not being equipped with the tools needed for them to experience self-love, emotional regulation and resilience, healthy boundaries and relationships, or the ability to manage stress and the ups and downs of growing up..

These are critical life skills that are not being taught in schools. In a nineteen year study published in the American Journal of Public Health in 2015, researchers discovered that a child’s social and emotional skills are the best predictors of their future success, not academics. Our children spend hundreds of hours learning their letters and numbers, but they are not actively learning critical skills that directly impact their lives. It doesn’t make sense that the personal development world focuses on grown ups when our core thoughts and beliefs that shape who we are and how we respond to life are formed during childhood.

WINTER 2019

It’s important for kids to develop their mindset because it’s the thoughts they choose that directly impact every aspect of their lives, from their selfconfidence and self-esteem, to their happiness and what they create for themselves.

As parents, we hope that we are being good role models for our children but between working, cooking meals, driving to and from extracurricular activities, and managing social media distractions and life, who has the time or energy to provide their children with mindset training?

In order for our children to become confident, happy, and successful adults, they must be able to shift their consciousness towards learning faster and more efficiently, learning stress management through mindfulness and meditation, forming positive and healthy relationships with themselves and others, and contributing to humanity. The only way for them to accomplish this is to be taught targeted life skills at a young age, whether at home or with a professional.

This is where life coaching for kids comes in.

Life coaching for kids is essentially mindset development training, empowering kids with a specific set of skills that they can use throughout their childhood, adolescence, and for the rest of their lives. It is what children need to target the limiting beliefs and thought patterns that hold them back. Kids are taught to use the power of their mind and thoughts to create confidence, happiness, and success in their lives.

As parents, we all have dreams for our children.

Our children are meant to be mindful leaders of their own lives. Let’s teach our kids how to live in an expansive state, to own their magnificence and really go for things in life, so they can reach their highest potential. Let’s help our children learn how to take their life wherever they want to go, one thought, one emotion, and one choice at a time. Join the mindful parenting movement and enroll your child in one of our life coaching programs today!

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MILTON’S NEW THERMOGRAPHY CLINIC, AND THE

Importance of Breast Screening B Y S A I MA SHEIKH

Breast health can be a scary issue for many, but it doesn’t have to be. Early screening by a certified thermographer can provide clients with a world of benefits.

H

ere at Thermography Clinic Milton, we care about managing your health in more than just clinical terms, and realize that health care services don’t have to be frightening. With new technology advancements recently, there are more methods of screening for and diagnosing breast tissue irregularities than ever before, and it’s important to know your options. Being proactive about your health care allows you to stay ahead of the game, particularly when you may have to make some tough, informed choices in the future. So, here’s what you always wanted to know about breast thermography.

What is the difference between mammograms, ultrasounds, and thermograms?

Both mammograms and ultrasounds are structural (anatomical) tests, whereas thermography is a functional (physiological) test. Thermography images of the breast and surrounding area provides us with a risk assessment, while mammograms and ultrasounds detect structural abnormalities.

What is breast thermography and does it replace a mammogram?

Thermography has been FDA approved as an adjunctive tool for breast screening since 1982; it is a functional test that uses infrared sensors. Thermography measures heat and inflammation, whereas mammograms detect lumps. With this said, thermography doesn’t replace a mammogram. Both screenings are useful tools with relative strengths and weaknesses.

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What is thermography used for?

As an imaging procedure that uses thermal imaging to measure the heat generated by different parts of the body, thermography is used for: • Breast cancer risk assessment • Adjunctive diagnostic information • Treatment monitoring • Prognostic indicator How is Thermography Done?

In a thermogram, an FDA approved infrared camera measures the skin’s temperature and converts the radiometric measures into images. These thermographic findings are evaluated based on 32 standard thermological signs and criteria which are accepted standards of clinical thermology. Although temperature measurements differ in various parts of the body, in a normal healthy individual, temperature changes should be relatively symmetrical. Once the images are acquired in a controlled setting, they are sent to our board certified clinical thermologist for analysis and interpretation. A written report is then returned to the clinic three weeks later that present to the client a full explanation of findings and followup recommendations. Studies show that when breast thermography is used as a part of a multimodal approach (i.e. clinical examination + thermography + mammography), 95% of early stage cancers can be detected.

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Who can have a Thermography done?

Anyone and Everyone! Thermography is particularly useful for clients who are not good candidates for mammography, or who prefer to avoid radiation exposure. It doesn’t matter if clients have had breast augmentations or reductions, partial mastectomies or have dense or lumpy tissue; thermography can be used by anyone young or old.

area before abnormal cells begin to grow. Chemical and blood vessel activity in pre-cancerous tissue is often higher than in the normal breast. Since pre-cancerous and cancerous masses are highly metabolic tissues, they need an abundant supply of nutrients to maintain their growth, and thus, can increase the surface temperatures of the breast.

Why is Thermography Important?

For over 50 years, thermal imaging has been available in various parts of Europe and the U.S., and is now available in Canada. It is completely safe and noninvasive, and is free of radiation and adverse effects. It provides a risk assessment that can be used in the early stages of some diseases or at any age. Thermography is one of the best environmentally conscious early warning systems available today.

Thermography should only be done by a certified thermographer. At Thermography Clinic Milton, we’re certified to screen using the guidelines and protocols established by the International Academy of Clinical Thermography.

What is the purpose of Thermography?

Breast thermography is based on the premise that a constant blood supply should be circulated to a particular

Please note our screenings include the “cold challenge”, which is Important to have, as having a thermography screening done without including the “cold challenge” is like getting half a test done. When it comes to your health, our clinicians want to be precise as possible.

We follow strict protocols and guidelines to ensure the most accurate and complete reporting.

To reach Saima directly, you are welcome to email info@thermographyclinicmilton.ca or call her direct at 905-876-3047 ext 201.

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7 Things

TO LOOK FOR ON A HOUSE TOUR

BY TANYA VAKIL FERNANDES

It’s easy to get mesmerized by the marble countertops, beautiful bay windows, and elegantly staged furniture on a home tour, but it’s important to stay focused. When you’re taking a first look at a house, pay attention to the less exciting details, such as signs of water damage and creaky floors. Another tip: it’s perfectly okay to whip out your measuring tape, open and close the cupboards, and turn on the taps. Here are the seven things you should look for to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

APPLIANCES

Scan the age and condition of the major appliances.

Do they look outdated? Is there rusting? Are they working properly? While it’s difficult to know how much longer an appliance will last, taking a closer look during the tour will inform you of what repairs may be required in the future.

LIGHTING

Check the availability of natural lighting in every room. You may need to visit the house at different times of the day to see how morning and afternoon sun enters the home.

into thinking that your existing furniture will fit right in. Measure the rooms to make sure there is enough space for all your furnishings.

GROUT AND CAULKING

If the grout and caulking in-between the tiles are loose and crumbling, it could mean that water is seeping through the walls or underneath the floor.

UNEVEN FLOORING

Cracks, creaking, and springy areas on the floor could be a sign of serious foundation problems that will need to be repaired in the future.

WATER DAMAGE

SOCKETS

Count the number of sockets in each room. Are there enough for all your needs? Are they placed in an area that’s ideal for how you want to arrange the room?

ROOM SIZES

Staged furniture can be deceptive, tricking you

Repairing damages caused by water can be expensive, so it’s worth taking the time to spot signs of water leaks. A home inspector will examine them more carefully, but you can also keep an eye out for spot stains, bulges on ceilings and walls, and discoloured paint.

Tanya Vakil Fernandes | Realtor & Interior Designer 254 Main St E., Milton, ON L9T 1P2 Tel : 289.670.1111 | Cell: 647.993.3125

N OW I N M I LTON

254 Main Street E, Milton, ON N9T 1P2 T: 289 670 1111 E: info@fhkeystone.ca

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Insurance MYTHS BUSTED B Y J A N E C OT NAM

No one ever looks forward to going through the catalogue of insurance products, happily saying “I’ll pick this one, please!” Insurance means we are looking at what we can leave behind as our legacy; it’s a direct indication that we recognize our mortality.

I

nsurance doesn’t have to be difficult. Let’s take a quick look at some of the biggest myths that are important to recognise in finding insurance that is right for you.

1. The stay-at-home partner doesn’t bring economic value to a family. This is the biggest myth! Think about it: if the family’s primary caregiver is suddenly no longer there, the remaining parent has to take time off for grieving, find a daycare provider, cook, clean, act as a taxi service, and so on. When you add all this up, you realize the contributions did indeed, bring a rather large economic value.

2. Buying insurance online is cheaper than going through a broker. This is a myth simply because the price of insurance doesn’t change regardless of how you buy it. The bonus of using a broker is the individual attention you get and how they can custom tailor your insurance to fit your needs.

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3. Buy term and invest the rest. Here’s an interesting statistic that no one tells you: only 1% of all term policies are paid out. This is not because the insurance company doesn’t want to, but rather because most outlive the 10 or 20 years they are covered for. Purchasing a whole life or permanent policy allows you to be covered until 100 years of age, and has an investment component to it that generates a cash value that you can use for anything.

4. The insurance you get as part of your group benefits is enough. Sadly, the flat amount or the multiple of your salary really doesn’t cover your family for their needs should something happen to you. A simple rule to calculate the amount of insurance you need is to multiply your annual income by five, then add your mortgage and debt. This gives your family the ability to continue living the life they know without having to change their lifestyle.

WINTER 2019

5. “I’m young, and I don’t have a family, so I don’t need insurance.” Taking a policy out while you are young is the best time to do so – you are presumably healthier, and while you’re younger, the rates will be less. Why not be ready for your future by starting right now?

Insurance doesn’t have to be complicated. When I sit with clients, I like explaining insurance in 60 seconds or less – a lot of them will actually bring a stopwatch! Here is the simplest way to remember how insurance in Canada works: Term Insurance is like renting an apartment. You rent it for 10 or 20 years, and when it’s time to renew, the premiums can go up five to eight times in price.

Universal Life is like a rent to own; simply put, you rent a block of insurance, and if you are still alive at 100-years-old, congratulations, you now own your policy.

Whole Life is like buying a home: you own it from the moment you pay your first premium. You pay for 20 years, just like a mortgage, and it’s yours. It is the most valuable policy, as you participate in the profits of the insurance company, which is paid to you as a tax-free dividend every year for life.

When you make the decision to purchase an insurance policy, make sure you reach out to an independent insurance broker. They will make sure you get exactly what you need.

Jane Cotnam | Independent insurance broker cell: 647.828.5104 4211 Yonge Street, Suite 245, Toronto, ON M2P 2A9 email: jane.c@insuranceforchildren.ca | www.insuranceforchildren.ca

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@airikkapassmore airikkapassmore.com Magazine.ca | WINTER 2019

COVER STORY

I WILL TRY

to

to Fix You

BY SUSANA MEDEIROS

Looking back on her childhood, Helen Antonio recalls spending a great amount of her school days volunteering her time in what was known as the Special Ed room. She doesn’t remember there being any labels, or titles for the kids in that room. Even as a kid herself, she just knew they needed to be taught differently, and she knew they needed her help. What she didn’t know was, one day, her entire life would be dedicated to making sure that children with special needs, or “exceptionalities” as she better puts it, and their families, were supported in the way that they need to be.

H

elen met Richard Gouveia on an online dating website in 2009. Richard laughs and says, “make note, that she was on another date and left, so she could meet me.”

Helen concludes that she was in fact on another date, and was excited to leave to meet Richard at Symposium in Milton to watch the Leafs game.

The couple shamelessly admit they didn’t actually watch the Leafs game, but instead quickly continued their date in the car. Their love affair began in a hurry. It was only four months later when

Helen found herself expecting. But unfortunately, she did not see her pregnancy to term; in fact, the couple miscarried three pregnancies in a matter of one year. Genetic testing revealed no concrete answers as to why this happened.

But the miscarriages did not discourage Richard and Helen from pursuing a life together. Within that year, the couple bought a home together. It was at the bottom of the stairs of that home, that Richard

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remembers his pregnant wife, calling in sick to work because she was so nauseated. Ironically, this was reassuring for Richard, as Helen had never experienced this with her other three pregnancies.

“Somehow, I just knew this time it stuck” Richard smiles. Richard’s gut instinct was accurate, because little Austin was born in April of 2011, and he was perfect. This was the couple’s first child, and like every parent, they marvelled in the milestones. Crawling, his first steps, potty training, they all seemed to be on time and for the most part, the couple had no reason to believe that he was any different from his cousins of the same age, or any other children, for that matter. Austin was was even saying words like “mom”, “dad”, “yes”, and “no”.

The couple did notice a few delays, but overall, there were no serious red flags. After all, every child develops at their own pace, right?

There was no reason for concern until their wellbaby appointment when Austin was 18 months and their pediatrician conducted the Nipissing

test. This is a developmental screening tool used by pediatricians to assist in assessing a child’s development. Austin’s pediatrician was concerned enough to refer them to a developmental pediatrician, who identified some characteristics of autism spectrum disorder, but was hesitant to make a formal diagnosis. Instead, she made a referral to ErinoakKids, the regional provider of IBI (Intensive Behavioural Intervention), which had an approximately two to three year long waiting list for an appointment. The couple was determined to take matters into their own hands, but were shocked to learn the cost of a private psychologist. Money was tight, but they decided to use their much needed tax return to pay for a diagnosis, instead of waiting for Erinoakkids. After spending the only money they had, the private psychologist also was not prepared to make a formal diagnosis. The couple waved goodbye to almost $3,000 and were again filled with unyielding frustration and confusion.

During the time that the couple was reaching Continued on page 24

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Austin Madison out for a diagnosis, it was typical for doctors to wait until a child was at least 3 years old before making a formal diagnosis. Today, the emphasis on early intervention is essential for growth in such a crucial developmental period. It’s never been in Helen’s nature to sit back and wait for anything; she needed answers! After being disappointed again, and completely depleted of funds, she reached out to Dr. Shawn Kao, a developmental pediatrician in Brampton who had come highly recommended. She knew the chances of seeing him would be slim, as he also had a long waiting list. But as luck would have it, Dr. Kao had a cancellation two weeks out.

Within 20 minutes of visiting Dr Kao, Austin had been formally diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Family Matters asked the couple, “what was your heart telling you regarding the accuracy of the diagnosis?” Richard, admits, he knew something was off, and he trusted Dr Kao. Helen doesn’t recall listening to her heart at all, “I had work to do, I needed to find him help, and I needed more answers. I was going to be too busy to listen to my heart.”

For the next few years, the couple endured some of their most trying times. Richard was working in the family landscaping business, and Helen worked in finance for a medical lab, but they were still just getting by as it was. Private therapy was necessary while they waited for their turn on the waiting list at Erinoakkids, which ran them about $1,000 per month. At one point, Richard almost left the family business, hoping to find a union job with 24

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benefits and more pay. In addition to the financial burden, they would have to dedicate a lot of time to appointments, which would often take Helen away from work. Helen went through several jobs over the course of two years because employers were not always sympathetic about her needing the time off. “It was just as well,” Helen dismisses. “My head was never at work, anyway.” She shares with Family Matters about the many times she would be at the filing cabinet, softly singing Coldplay’s “Fix You”, while she sobbed. She was let go of two jobs within a matter of one year because as she admits, she was not there mentally or emotionally; “I was fixated on helping my son.”

The couple made the tough decision to have Helen stay home. She took on odd and seasonal jobs, mostly dedicating her time to Austin. The couple was optimistic when Austin was fortunate enough to be part of a group that was on the waitlist for services through ErinoakKids. This hope was crushed again when the provincial government took away the funding for the program, and only offered it to children under the age of five. With children across Ontario suddenly left without funding for necessary services, a movement began to spread across the internet: #AutismDoesntEndAt5. Austin was just over five years old by then.

Eventually, the decision was overturned, and Austin was put back on the waiting list for what is now called the Ontario Autism Program. This program offers applied behavioural analysis, and teaches life skills to children with autism. As Austin was mostly non-verbal until the age of six, he was in dire need of the services at Erinoakkids.

Now, at seven years old, Austin is progressing well in the program; although he is operating at a level of a four year old, he is making improvements everyday. Along their journey to “fix” Austin, though, the couple had another surprise.

The family was enjoying an outing at Bissell’s Hideaway when Helen observed two little girls Continued on page 26 WINTER 2019

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Richard Helen interacting with each other. She remembers hearing a little girl tell another, “my name is Madison”, and being completely smitten with that little girl. She even told Richard, that if she ever had a little girl, she would love to name her Madison.

The couple was worried about having another child, but this time they decided to leave it in the hands of fate and “if it happens it happens”. As this important decision was being made, unknowingly, so was a very special person. Helen and Richard’s second child, beautiful Madison was born six weeks premature and with Down’s syndrome. Richard was heartbroken, and couldn’t help wonder what he had done to deserve this. Helen knew the only way to best help her children would be to empower herself.

She started taking courses and workshops, and received her certification as a registered behavioural technician. Alongside taking workshops, Helen started working as a school lunch monitor and volunteer for the reading program supporting students who were struggling. Her journey took a twist when she was called in as an emergency teacher for Austin’s class. He was so amused that mom was his teacher. “I was always involved in my son’s school. I still remain the school council treasurer.” After that moment, while also running a before and after school program from home, Helen decided to apply for a supply educational assistant position, and landed a one with the York Board of Education. After only one day on the job, she was offered a long term opportunity. Soon after came an opportunity with the Halton region.

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And while Helen’s career was thriving, there was a time when the couple’s relationship was suffering.

Helen admits, “I was so fixated on helping my kids that I did put my relationship on the back burner.”

Richard also admits alienating himself, as it was the only way he knew how to cope. In some ways, their relationship still suffers. There is a lack of support in their extended family. The couple says it’s difficult for some family members to understand and have patience with Austin. They say they’ve never been out alone, except for a few dinners, since Austin was born. “Looking after our kids is just not something people offer to do for us outside of us going to work.”

The couple has come to terms with this, but still offer to have other people’s children in their home for play dates, often because Austin loves the company. Helen tears up as she shares, “I know the day will come when Austin will no longer be invited to birthday parties and playdates, so for as long as kids want to hang at our house, I will gladly have them.”

Helen is now dedicating her time and career to supporting families like her own. As an instructor therapist part-time, she is responsible for facilitating applied behavioural analysis, while also working as an educational assistant. Helen feels that the systems for helping children with special needs are not perfect, and she wants her presence to be impactful. Kids spend most of their crucial developmental years in school, and so that is where she chooses to be. “If I can be the person who offers a family the same love and support that my own family needs, then the system is that much better. She now finds that she may not be able to fix Austin or Madison like she thought she could, because the fact is, they aren’t broken. She trusts that those who are equipped to support children like Austin through the system, will do so, with their best interests at heart. “I feel blessed to provide families like mine with a sense of peace because I care, and I treat their child as I expect mine to be treated.”

WINTER 2019

Piles of brightly wrapped gifts.

Sharing lists of most-wanted items. Cruising around malls on winter weekends. The holidays are all about giving, receiving, and showing loved ones we care, but the way we view gifts is changing.

Many people are recognizing that their family does not need any more socks, scented candles, or candies. They’re bored of the sterile gift-card alternative, and are looking for more meaningful presents.

Donating to a charity on someone’s behalf is a great way to help out those in need, and avoid wasting money on unwanted items. When someone donates as a gift to Food4Kids, a card is sent to the recipient to let them know how their gift will be spent. Someone donated $40 for you at Christmas? You just fed a child every weekend for a month! All donors are sent a tax receipt and acknowledgment of their generous act.

Any amount can be given as a gift this Christmas to help the 120 children in Milton who rely on food packages from Food4Kids Halton to get them through the weekends. $10 will feed a child for one weekend, and $400 will feed that child for the entire year.

If you really want a dose of the warm and fuzzies this holiday season, think outside of the gift box, and consider helping your community.

Take a look at Food4KidsHalton.ca for more info on how to donate, or contact Gayle at Gayle@food4kids.ca.

A Powerful Partnership: SUPPORTING YOUR CHILD BY COLLABORATING WITH THEIR SCHOOL

BY DR. KERRIS DEL ROSARIO

While it is of utmost importance to most parents for their child to have positive experiences at school, many parents often struggle to find ways to be involved in fostering those experiences. Some parents may leave the responsibility solely on the school, while others may take an over-active role and minimize the importance of school staff. But the ideal outcome is the development of a healthy partnership between parents and their child’s school staff.

R

esearch shows that parental involvement improves not only a child’s behaviour and attendance at school, but their academic achievement too. Studies further reveal that the family’s involvement with their child is more important to their child’s school success than how much money the family makes, or even how educated the parents are.

When parents are involved in and learn about their child’s functioning at school, they can work collaboratively with the school to help facilitate learning, including motivation for and a positive attitude about school. So parents, here are several ways you can collaborate with your child’s school; rest assured that your child will reap the benefits from this powerful partnership.

Meet your child’s teacher. Introductions

the school year. Whether it’s through attendance at a school-arranged meeting, or initiated by you as the parent, engagement in an introduction sends the message that you are interested in and supportive of your child’s school-day experiences.

Maintain an ongoing relationship.

Parent-teacher conferences are usually held at regular intervals, and they are an excellent way for you to see your child’s classroom in person (so you understand the environment in which they spend their days), review your child’s work samples, and formally discuss your child’s areas of strength and need. However, you can request to speak to your child’s teacher at any time throughout the year. Research shows that in order for communication to be effective in facilitating a positive relationship with your child’s school, it

lay the foundation for communication throughout

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needs to be frequent, open, and honest. With that said, relationship building does not have to be in person, as most schools allow for messages to be sent through email, notes in your child’s agenda, or even through an app.

Volunteer at your child’s school. Being available to help when needed is a hands-on way you can demonstrate your desire to be an active member in your child’s educational world.

your child’s academic or socioemotional skills, raise them and seek advice or perspective from their teacher, principal, or other school staff. This shows that you value their expertise, and that you are an observant and caring member of your child’s team. This also creates the opportunity for a collaborative effort to support your child’s improvement.

learning, maturing, and navigating at school. Find out the roles and responsibilities of each member of the school team so that you can direct your questions and feedback to the appropriate personnel.

Get to know who’s who at the school. There are Ask questions. If you have concerns about many people involved in and available for your child’s

Learn what the school has to offer. Take the time to read newsletters and other event notices (e.g., for upcoming fieldtrips, picture or other theme days, etc.) that are sent home with your child. Find out what remedial or advanced programs and extracurricular activities are offered through the school that your child may benefit from or enjoy, then encourage participation.

References/Resources: http://inclusiveeducation.ca/2018/02/20/teachers-andparents-working-together-to-support-inclusion/ http://www.readingrockets.org/article/getting-parentsinvolved-schools http://www.colorincolorado.org/article/twenty-ways-youcan-help-your-children-succeed-school This article was written by Dr. Kerris del Rosario, psychologist with del Rosario Psychology & Psychotherapy Group in Milton and Kitchener, Ontario. del Rosario Group provides personalized assessment and therapy for children, adolescents, adults and couples. www.delRosarioPsych.com www.facebook.com/DrKerris | Twitter: @DrKerris

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Tips for Communicating WITH INDIVIDUALS WITH HEARING LOSS

BY YVONNE OLIVEIRA

Dealing with the daily struggles of hearing loss can be frustrating and isolating, particularly if the person has not pursued wearing hearing aids. Although today’s hearing aid technology has vastly improved from the past, hearing aids are not perfect. Hearing aids are just that: an aid to hearing. There will likely still be some situations where an individual may struggle to hear, even if they are wearing hearing aids. As a spouse, family member, friend, or colleague there are tips you may consider in order to enable a hearing aid wearer or individual with hearing loss to communicate and listen more easily.

Communication strategies for ensuring better hearing include the following simple rules: • Speak clearly and naturally. It is not necessary, nor beneficial to shout, since this can distort the voice.

• Move closer. Reducing the distance between speaker and listener can improve speech understanding.

• Face the listener. Position yourself so the listener can see your face and lips. Lip-reading will help supplement the sound of speech.

• Attract the listener’s attention. Use the person’s name, enter their field of vision, or tap them lightly on the shoulder.

• Take the surroundings into account. Avoid conversations between rooms, or when there is a lot of background noise (e.g., vacuum

cleaner, washing machine, loud television).

• Be aware of performance constraints. Do not put the hard-of-hearing listener under too much pressure; both the individual and the performance of hearing aids have their limits.

• For individuals with hearing aids, understand that using hearing instruments can be tiring.

Be sensitive of signs of fatigue; listening is actually very taxing, particularly for new hearing aid users.

• Be patient. Respect the speed of progress, and encourage the person with hearing loss. Be a good listener, and help the person achieve the goal in participating in conversations.

If you have further questions call the HearSay Speech & Hearing Centre to speak with one of our audiologists 905.875.3345.

6941 Derry Road West, Milton, ON L9T 7H5 905.875.3345 www.hearsay.ca

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