Volume 37 | FEBRUARY 2023
The power of kindness
We’re excited to reveal something we’ve been working on in secret: The Undercover Kindness Project – A heartfelt way to inspire people to do something kind for a caregiver in their life. Recently, we invited people to recognize a caregiver they know. Then, along with their family and friends, as well as OCO ambassador, Erica Ehm, we collaborated an undercover act of kindness for a few of them. Caregivers often go unnoticed and we hope this project inspires others to consider an act of kindness for a caregiver in their life.

Meet Vanessa who surprised her mother Marissa with a small act of kindness that made her day.
Black History Month: Recognizing Black Caregivers
There are significant differences in the way people in other cultures provide care. Black caregivers’ experiences are unique for various reasons, including systemic racism, discrimination and stereotypes. We have gathered tools and resources to empower and support Black caregivers in various situations or settings, such as school and community spaces, engaging with policy, and managing stress.
Caring for Someone with Heart Failure
Heart failure is very common. It affects nearly 1 million Canadians, and the numbers are increasing. As a result, caregivers play a crucial role in supporting patients with heart failure, including symptom recognition, medication management, and assisting with daily diet and exercise routines. In partnership with The Heart Hub, we hosted a webinar to address the challenges caregivers may face in their daily lives. You will hear from other caregivers’ experiences and get practical strategies from Dr. Phyllis Billian, a cardiologist specializing in heart failure and focusing on patients undergoing advanced therapies.
The Ontario Caregiver Helpline is Here for You
Did you know the Ontario Caregiver Helpline is a one-stop resource for information and referrals connecting caregivers to the support they need? The Helpline is answered by professional Community Resource Specialists in English and French, with interpretation services available in 150 languages upon request. Call 1-833-416-2273 (CARE) or use the online live chat to get your needed support 24/7.

Learn more about Ontario Caregiver Helpline.
SCALE is Back
“The SCALE Program really helped reduce my stress and gave me hope.” – SCALE participant 

Are you looking for practical tips to improve your well-being? The SCALE Program has returned and offers weekly webinars, tools, and resources to help you cope with difficult caregiving emotions. Sign up for Session 1, Session 2, or individual webinars to suit your needs.
Upcoming Webinars
Balancing Work and Care: Finding Strategies that Work for You
Date: Thursday, March 9, 2023
Time: 7 p.m. – 8 p.m. ET
Tools for Better Transition Between Hospital and Home
Date: Thursday, March 23, 2023
Time: 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. ET
Missed a webinar?
We know caregivers are busy. That's why we record webinars so that you can watch them after the event, at a time that's convenient for you. 
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