Give a day
One day can make a world of difference. World AIDS Day (December 1) has taken on a new dimension as health care workers across Canada donate a day’s income to confront the AIDS pandemic.
Give a Day to World AIDS started on World AIDS Day, December 1, 2004, when a group of Toronto-area doctors responded to the AIDS pandemic by giving a day’s income to the Stephen Lewis Foundation. In 2005, 8 hospitals were involved. Hundreds of Ontario health care workers donated a day’s pay, giving $100 000 to organizations caring for those affected by AIDS—notably the Stephen Lewis Foundation and Dignitas International. In 2006, the movement grew far beyond the health care sector as several large law firms became involved, along with businesses, teachers, and many others. More than $530 000 was given to help those affected by AIDS.
The crisis of AIDS in the world is the story that will define our generation. A West African proverb says, “Silence, too, is speech.” In light of the AIDS pandemic, Canadians cannot remain silent. Give a Day to World AIDS is one way to raise our voices together. More information is available from www.giveaday.ca.
Caring for strokes
Did you know that any patient with suspected acute stroke should have their blood glucose checked immediately? Or that all patients with acute stroke should be given at least 160 mg of acetylsalicylic acid (by enteral tube or rectal suppository, if necessary) once intracranial hemorrhage has been ruled out by imaging?
The Canadian Stroke Strategy Best Practices and Standards Working Group is an arm-of-a-mammoth effort, incorporating the Canadian Stroke Network and the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada. This collaboration has recently resulted in the release of Canadian Best Practice Recommendations for Stroke Care: 2006; this document has been created using the highest standards of evidence-based medicine. It’s available on-line from www.canadianstroke strategy.ca or can be obtained in bound copy or on CD by contacting Laurie Cameron at laurie{at}canadianstrokenetwork.ca.
- Copyright© the College of Family Physicians of Canada