Nursing prof organizes interactive workshop as a fundraiser

An e-mail from a friend turned into an opportunity to make a real difference in the world for nursing professor Brenda McLaughlin. "I had been considering what I might do next when I heard about this mission team trip to Africa," she said—it seemed like a good fit. This June, she will join Outreach Africa on a two-week trip to Uganda and Kenya, teaching about disease prevention and testing for HIV. She will work in a 300-student college, a hospital, clinic, and an orphanage. "My desire is to use the talents and skills I have been given to help with healing and to promote healthy living," said McLaughlin.

She has organized an interactive workshop in Windsor as a fundraiser to support her humanitarian project. Life's Balancing Act will feature sessions with professionals on all aspects of health, Saturday, April 2, at Riverside United Church's Camaan Hall, 881 Glidden Avenue. Besides McLaughin's own presentation on the critical importance of sleep in the balance of health, the day will feature:

  • Psychologist Libby Skidmore on keeping emotional balance;
  • Business leader Pyllis Balkwill on practical time management;
  • Nursing instructor Candace Ryan sharing ideas for brown bag lunches and leading participants in preparing the day's midday meal;
  • Choral director Linda Lyman discussing the value of journalling and keeping music in your life;
  • Personal trainer Jen Jakovcic on fitting time for fitness into busy schedules.

The workshop begins at 9 a.m. and runs to 3 p.m. and costs $35 at the door, $30 for those who register in advance, and $15 for students—including lunch and a chance to win door prizes.

For more information and registration details, e-mail McLaughlin at bmcla@uwindsor.ca or peacetpau@gmail.com or phone 519-256-6677