The Markham Stouff ville Hospital Foundation (MSHF) has launched one of its largest community fundraising programs, The Climb to Conquer, to help tackle the increasing need for adolescent psychiatry programs and resources in York Region. This past year, the hospital received 3,400 visits from youth at their mental health program, and this number is expected to grow to 6,400 by 2014. In Ontario, it is estimated that one in five adolescents are struggling with mental health issues. As more and more children and teens struggle with depression, suicide, eating disorders, and drug abuse, the need for adolescent psychiatry continues to grow. From July 10-21, The Climb to Conquer will see a dedicated group of Markham Stouff ville Hospital supporters embark on the journey of a lifetime. The proceeds from The Climb to Conquer will help to improve the quality of life for children and adolescents struggling with mental illness by raising money for the Mental Health Program at MSH and raising public awareness.
I am in full support of the expansion of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Clinic, as it provides an inviting space where children and adolescents feel welcomed and supported, not judged. A highlight of the new space will be the innovative Pediatric Day Hospital for youth in crisis, which will allow for patients to continue their schooling during short-stay treatment periods.
Climbing a mountain is no easy feat. Beyond having the passion and dedication to do so, there is a vigorous amount of
training involved, both mentally and physically. This summer, whatever the activity or vacation of choice, natural health supplements can help you attain extra energy, build strength, improve overall well-being, and help you to be prepared for unexpected problems like joint pain, injuries, and fatigue. There are a few key natural health supplements that can assist any
outdoor enthusiast this summer.
Whether you’re preparing to climb one of the world’s highest mountains or are just going for a hike on your favourite trail, there are a few essentials to consider adding to your adventure kit. In addition to these items, I would like acknowledge the HealthwithCare
Medical Centre, who is the presenting sponsor of The Climb to Conquer. HealthwithCare provides health care services across Southern Ontario with an OHIP-based primary care model and offers a wide range of services and products. With two locations in
Markham and Vaughan, the team aims to provide a complete spectrum of care, from access to family physicians to specialty medical practitioners who can educate and guide you to optimal health during the summer months and beyond. We will be holding a fundraiser on Friday, June 17th at the Maison Mercer (15 Mercer St.) to support the Climb to Conquer. For more information, please contact [email protected], visit www. healthwithcare.ca, or call (905) 474-5754 (ext. 2024).
In a few weeks, I will ascend Mount Kilimanjaro in order to help conquer the stigma associated with mental health issues. This initiative is very close to my heart as mental health issues have affected people in my own family. My goal is to personally raise
$30,000 for the cause. To learn more about this event, please visit www.climbtoconquer.mshf.on.ca. While you may not be climbing a mountain this summer, the items listed above are great examples of natural health remedies and resources that each of us should consider as we prepare for the months ahead.

Adventure Kit Essentials

1.Fuel – greens+ has the ability to help boost your nutritional intake and overall energy. Just one serving daily provides over 23 plant-based essential nutrients. Highly alkaline-forming and rich in antioxidants, greens+ nourishes and protects your body and promotes healthier bones to keep you in top condition for the summer months. www.genuinehealth.com
2.Protection – Curaphyte’s Burn Cream is an herbal medicine meant to help relieve minor burns (including sunburn). This topical cream contains aloe vera and assists in the healing of minor wounds, cuts and burns, and helps to relieve minor skin irritations.
www.curaphyte.com
3.Performance – During the summer months, don’t forget to take your omega-3s, which are essential for overall wellbeing, cardiovascular health, and a healthy mind. I recommend NutraSea+D, a balanced omega-3 formula with vitamin D. Even during the summer months, up to 40 pecent of the population are deficient in vitamin D due to working indoors and wearing sunscreen when outdoors. www.ascentahealth.com
4. Relief – Relief Gel is an ideal product for active folk. It helps to relieve joint aches and pains, bruises, sprains, tendon and ligament pain, as well as tired, aching muscles. It is fast acting and can be easily massaged onto the affected area with no oily residue. www.curaphyte.com
5. Sleep – Proper sleep is needed for the body to recover and rejuvenate for the day ahead. Night Relief is a product that contains both California poppy and devil’s claw. It provides pain relief at night as well as a mild sedative to help you sleep, making it perfect for those nights following a day of intense physical activity.
www.curaphyte.com