Spring allergies and sleep apnea are closely linked, as nasal congestion from allergic reactions can worsen breathing difficulties during sleep. Allergic rhinitis causes inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages, restricting airflow and increasing the likelihood of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Poor airflow forces individuals to breathe through their mouths, which can lead to dry mouth, snoring, and disrupted sleep. Additionally, allergies can contribute to airway inflammation, making apnea episodes more frequent and severe. Managing allergies with antihistamines, nasal sprays, and air purifiers can help reduce symptoms and improve sleep quality, leading to better overall health and well-being.
Community News
April is IBS Awareness Month
Did you know 13-20% of Canadians live with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)? This chronic gut disorder causes cramps, bloating, and bowel issues, leading to an average of 73 restricted activity days per year. IBS is the most burdensome chronic ailment reported by patients, often taking six years to diagnose. While there’s no cure, proper nutrition, like a low-FODMAP diet, can ease symptoms. Managing stress, staying active, and staying hydrated also help. Consulting a healthcare provider ensures the best approach for digestive health. Raising awareness is key to helping those with IBS live more comfortably and freely.
Strong Today, Strong Tomorrow
Maintaining muscle and bone strength is one of the most powerful ways to stay active and independent as you age. Strong muscles support your joints, improve balance, and make everyday tasks—like climbing stairs or carrying groceries—easier and safer. At the same time, healthy bones provide the sturdy foundation your body depends on. Strength training with light weights or resistance bands, along with weight-bearing activities like walking or dancing, helps keep both muscles and bones resilient. Fueling your body with enough protein, calcium, and vitamin D adds even more protection. A little consistent effort goes a long way toward lifelong strength and confidence.
April Intuitive Insight
Oracle Card drawn by Lygia
Ramcharan – PASSION “Your passion brings you joy and now is the time to follow it! Be open to changes. New ideas, possibilities, and opportunities are surfacing. Choose what resonates with you. If you have felt stuck or suppressed by your current position, you must consider movement unless you remain affixed in your current state. When you follow your heart and do what you love, you listen to your inner guide, which will always lead you to experience more abundance and joy.”
Good Posture Can Prevent Pain & Injuries
Having good posture makes you look strong and healthy and it’s also a critical factor in preventing pain and injuries. For recreational activities like golf, skating, yoga or running, posture actually plays an important role in performance. Posture is critical in preventing workplace injuries that come from repetitive stress or sitting at a desk in front of a computer all day. Physiotherapists can help you discover how to improve your posture by demonstrating positions and stretches for when you start to feel the tension in your body. Make the move to see a physiotherapist!
Thank You for Your Support!
Thank you to all BRHC Foundation donors who supported our Pancake Breakfast and our Tree of Lights Campaign – with your help we exceeded our goal! $51,223.99 was raised for the purchase of 5 Treatment Chairs for the Outpatient Care Unit, with the remaining funds being directed to the building and equipment needs for the new Critical Care Centre. We would also like to give thanks to all of our generous sponsors from the Brandon community who supported our Pancake Breakfast. Jo-Anne Lewis, Executive Director, BRHC Foundation at (204) 578-4226 or email [email protected]
Walk for Alzheimer’s
The IG Wealth Management Walk for Alzheimer’s is the Alzheimer Society’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting local programs and services for families affected by dementia. It’s a powerful day for the community to connect, celebrate and show that no one facing dementia walks alone.
“The Walk holds personal meaning for me,” says Aimee Palmer, Regional Vice President of IG Wealth Management. “My grandmother lived with Alzheimer’s for over 10 years. Her story reminds me that behind every statistic is a family. As the number of Manitobans living with dementia increases, it’s more important than ever to create awareness and hope for families.”
Find a Walk near you and register today at alzheimer.mb.ca/wfa.
Power of Donations
The Yellow Bin – Supporting People with Intellectual Disabilities.
The clothing and small household items you donate go directly towards helping people with intellectual disabilities. Money raised by your donations is used to help fund the programs offered by Inclusion Saskatchewan. Thanks to your donations, people with intellectual disabilities are provided the support they need to pay rent, buy food, find employment, and be included and valued members of society.
We love your clothing donations but we also need your small household items. We ask that you donate your gently used kitchenware, small appliances, children’s toys, media, and other miscellaneous belongings to us safely packed up..
To donate, find a local Yellow Bin in your area, schedule a free pickup via our website, call or email us at 1-877-477-2171, Email: [email protected]
Helping Paws, Warming Hearts
Fostering, volunteering, and donating food to the SPCA are powerful ways to support animals in need. Foster homes offer a safe, loving space for pets to heal and thrive before adoption. Volunteers give their time and hearts, helping with daily care, socialization, and events. Food donations ensure every animal is well-fed and healthy, easing the shelter’s burden. Together, these acts of kindness create a community of care, giving every animal a better chance at life.
Stronger Steps After Stroke
Recovering at home after a stroke or brain injury can feel overwhelming, but the right support can make a meaningful difference. One on one physiotherapy in the comfort of your home helps improve walking, build strength, and reduce the risk of falls. Each session is personalized and focused on practical goals that matter most, whether that is climbing stairs, returning to favourite activities, or regaining independence. Services may include neurological, vestibular, and geriatric rehabilitation. Individualized treatment plans help restore balance, mobility, and confidence. Education for clients and families also helps make daily routines safer and easier, supporting recovery every step of the way.
Hidden Dangers
Leaky roofs, faulty electrical systems, mold growth, and rot aren’t just construction headaches—they’re serious safety and health hazards. Water leaks can weaken structural integrity and create ideal conditions for mold, which affects air quality and long-term health. Electrical issues increase the risk of fire, while hidden rot compromises walls and foundations. Proper Inspections, timely repairs, quality craftsmanship are crucial to prevent issues before they escalate. Attention to detail isn’t just good practice—it protects lives, property, and investments.
