After 12 years of dedicated service, the current executive members of the North Shore Chapter of Osteoporosis Canada have decided to step down from their posts and are hopeful a new crop of volunteers will come forward to continue the group's mission.
Member Marion Poliakoff says the timing is right and that she and her peers feel they've fulfilled their mandate of education related to the treatment and prevention of the disease characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, and support to local residents.
"After all these years, everybody is getting older and busy with family and grandchildren and just feel it's time to move on and hope that we can find younger people who might be interested," says the 90-year-old West Vancouver resident.
Poliakoff has been with the chapter since its founding, following her own diagnosis with osteoporosis. She was also able to put her journalism background to work, serving as secretary and was responsible for public relations. Poliakoff says she enjoyed her involvement, feeling fulfilled as a leader, as well as grateful for the information she's been privy to, allowing her to continue to lead a healthy, active life.
A main focus of the chapter was to organize and promote monthly lectures, most recently in partnership with the West Vancouver Memorial Library.
The educational events covered a variety of topics, including osteoporosis causes, symptoms, treatments, related illnesses, exercise and diet. Speakers were at the top of their field, ranging from doctors, dieticians, dentists and pharmacists to physiotherapists. The lectures were well supported by the community, seeing 60-100 attend on a regular basis.
Chapter members also disseminated up-to-date informational materials from Osteoporosis Canada widely on the North Shore in clinics, doctor's offices, Lions Gate Hospital, health food stores as well as community and seniors centres.
In addition, the executive fundraised for research initiatives undertaken by Osteoporosis Canada (osteoporosis.ca), through their annual Bone China Tea and theatre night sponsorships.
Along with Poliakoff, other long-serving executive members retiring include Mary Hamm, Maureen Sherman, Tricia Jeske, Diana Belhouse, Cecilia Hall, Marlis Rowe and Sheila Rivers.
The retiring members are happy to work with the new executive to enable a smooth transition. To take a leadership role with the North Shore Chapter of Osteoporosis Canada, contact chairwoman Mary Hamm at 604-985-5439.
