Fall 2008

Mikey Walking Club Goes the Distance

If you happen to drive through North York mid-day and think you're having a hallucination involving Hugh Heron as the Pied Piper, no need to clean your glasses. It probably is Hugh leading The Heathwood Homes/Heron Group Mikey Walking Club! "Part of The Mikey Network's commitment is to promote heart-healthy living," Hugh says. He is a partner in the Heron Group of Companies, president of Heathwood Homes, and CEO of The Mikey Network. "This summer we invited our employees to walk twice a week for 25 to 30 minutes. We often have 20 people or more walking. Rain or shine, we put on our Mikey T-shirts and head out together, keeping a brisk pace. We get exercise, socialize, and promote the Network. This activity is the best gift we can give ourselves." Adding to the employees' enthusiasm, the company donates $10 to The Mikey Network on behalf of each person who walks each day. Now, that's putting your money where your mouth is! We hope that other companies across the GTA will start Mikey Walking Clubs. Check out our brand new section on The Mikey Network website that offers the opportunity to create teams online, as well as tips on starting your own program at work. "You'd be surprised how little 25 minutes is," Hugh adds. "Time really does fly when you're having fun."

Teeing Off to Help Save Lives

On Tuesday, August 26th 2008, hundreds of Mikey members gathered at the Richmond Hill Golf and Country Club for the 6th Mikey Network Golf Tournament. One of the organization's major fundraising sources, the heart-felt event always draws an eager crowd. This year's participants looked forward to a full day of activities that led up to the fabulous reception/dinner at the Richmond Hill Golf & Country Club. Activities included golf, exercise classes, a golf clinic and tennis tournament. The Mikey Golf Tournament has raised over $500,000 since the inception of this event. Once again this year, a full 100 percent of the proceeds go to the Network.

Toronto School Defibrillator Program Going Strong

Since we announced the Mikey's Young-at-Heart School Defibrillator Program in March 2007, we've been busy installing 120 Mikeys in Toronto District School Board (TDSB) locations: every secondary school, outdoor education centre and administrative site. In addition to offering a second chance at life to young students who experience sudden cardiac arrest, the Mikeys will also benefit continuing education students, teachers, school staff and the many individuals and neighbourhood groups who use the schools for events. We work with Toronto Emergency Medical Services, which provides the staff training that is so important for the effective use of the Mikeys. The projected completion of all 120 Mikeys for TDSB is December 31, 2008.

MIKEYs Make Their Way into Halton Schools

Earlier this year, we were pleased to partner with Halton Region, the Halton Catholic District School Board and the Halton District School Board to launch our Mikey's Young-at-Heart School Defibrillator Program in that Region. The program has equipped all high schools in Halton with a Mikey, as well as training for staff in cardiac emergency response techniques. Halton Region Emergency Medical Services delivered the training of staff at the schools. We also launched our "Pay it Forward Campaign," through which we ask each school to raise $3,000 to be used toward purchasing Mikeys for other schools in the province. In turn, those recipients will each raise $3,000, and so on. Let's hope this life-saving domino effect continues until every school in Ontario has a Mikey at hand.

Mikey Flies in Oshawa

On Wednesday, May 21, 2008, Two Men And A Truck donated a MIKEY public-access defibrillator to Oshawa's Municipal Airport through The Mikey Network. John Prittie, President of Two Men And A Truck, Franchisee Steve deBoer and V.P. Dan Hopkins of the international moving company were on hand when Hugh Heron, President of Heathwood Homes and Chairman/Co-founde and Executive Director of The Mikey Network, Morty Henkle, made the presentation to Airport Manager Steve Wilcox and Mayor John Gray. This busy Airport is a full-service commercial and general aviation facility.

Two Men & a Truck - Commitment on the Move

The Mikey Network welcomes community partner Two Men and a Truck (TMT), which has been in business for 21 years and operates in the United States, Canada and Ireland. The company has pledged to donate a percentage of each of its Canadian moves to the Network. Recently, the company presented a cheque covering the past year. Community service is at the heart of the company's corporate philosophy, and we appreciate their ongoing support.

The John & Myrna Daniels Charitable Foundation Pitches In to Help

Another new home builder known for its generosity in the community is The Daniels Corporation who, with The John and Myrna Daniels Charitable Foundation, has pledged to donate 50 Mikeys over a two-year period – half to be placed in the company's high-rise and low-rise communities, one-quarter distributed through other Daniels charitable partners, and the remaining one-quarter distributed at The Mikey Network's discretion.

Association Builds Community Support

In May 2008, the Oshawa Senior Citizens Centres was presented with two MIKEYS by the Durham Region Home Builders' Association (DRHBA). One will be used in the Mobile Transportation Program to be available during events held away from the Centres. DRHBA is the voice of the residential construction industry in Durham Region. The Oshawa Senior Citizens Centres is a not-for-profit agency that offers programs and services to adults 55 years + at a number of Oshawa locations.

Ricoh Coliseum Now Protected with a Mikey

Ricoh Coliseum and the American Hockey League Toronto Marlies were recent beneficiaries of a Mikey Defibrillator. At Toronto's Exhibition Place, Ricoh Coliseum is home to a variety of events including concerts, horse shows and ski shows.

The Mikey Network Scores with Minor Hockey

A MIKEY was donated to Joshua's Creek Arena, made possible by a fund raising event hosted by BEYOND THE NEXT LEVEL (a local fitness company) as well as a donation presented by the Alex Corrance Memorial Fund. A second MIKEY was donated to the City of Oakville to be used at various events.

A Real Life-Saver

By Bruce K. Farr, Chief/General Manager Toronto Emergency Medical Services and President of the EMS Chiefs of Canada

When a heart stops beating, a person's chance of survival decreases 10% each minute unless a defibrillator is used. Having a Mikey nearby – and somebody who's prepared to use it before paramedics arrive – can save a life.

It takes several minutes for someone to call 911 and for the ambulance to arrive. Meanwhile, a citizen can start CPR and use a Mikey almost immediately. That's why Toronto EMS teaches public access defibrillator skills to 60,000 citizens each year through our Safe City program.

All our efforts to provide this training would be for naught if there weren't public access defibrillators. Mikey has been the engine driving the growth of these life-saving machines over the past few years.

When Toronto EMS started encouraging businesses to install defibrillators in 1999, companies worried about expenses and liability. The Mikey team enthusiastically donated defibrillators to remove the expense issue, and successfully lobbied the provincial government to introduce The Good Samaritan Act (Bill 171), which solved the liability question.

The idea of public access defibrillators is at a tipping point, with more and more Canadians learning how easy they are to use in an emergency. Our partnership with The Mikey Network has already saved lives.

Kyle - One of Mikey's Kids

When Jone Wright and David Hunter received the diagnosis that their nine-year-old son, Kyle, had Long QT or sudden death syndrome, Jone says, "We became paralyzed as a family. We knew that Kyle's fainting wasn't normal, but to be told that our only child could collapse and die without warning was overwhelming. It was as if the bottom of our world fell out. Receiving the Mikey was like being thrown a life preserver."

The diagnosis had forced the enthusiastic soccer and hockey player to give up sports temporarily. "At first," Jone says, "we wanted to keep him safe and at home 24 hours a day in case we needed to call 9-1-1; however, the Mikey has allowed us to reopen our world and we are now able to re-enroll him in the sports he loves so much because we have the Mikey supporting us at the sidelines. The unit is so easily portable that he can take it when he plays sports and when he goes to other families' homes. Our friends are all trained in CPR now and know how to use the defibrillator, which gives us tremendous freedom. When Kyle goes out, the Mikey goes with him."

Long QT is a genetic condition, and Jone is undergoing testing to determine if she has it. "Not a lot is known about the type of Long QT that Kyle has," she says, "so we live in a grey area, but the Mikey walks with us and helps us through it. Kyle is a great kid; the gift of the Mikey is the gift of our son's life."

Mikey Saves a Life

As many Mikeys as we place, we always hope they will never have to be used. Earlier this year, we were reminded once again the important work of The Mikey Network. Daniel Terbenche, a 63-year-old Torontonian, suffered sudden cardiac arrest at Variety Village last winter as he rested after a power walk on the fitness track at Variety Village. This facility is the flagship project of Variety – The Children's Charity, which makes a significant impact in the spirit and lives of children with disabilities. Variety Village expands upon the charity's mandate by delivering programs and services to people of all ages and all abilities.

This well-used facility has three Mikeys on site, donated by The Mikey Network, and every staff member is trained in public-access defibrillator use. When Mr. Terbenche's heart stopped, Variety Village staff members rushed to his aid. Dave Henderson, Shane Risto, Joseph Rosgen and Jason Williams were first to respond to the emergency "code red" that was issued. They worked as a team to deliver CPR, get the Mikey going and control the scene.

By the time Toronto EMS arrived, they had delivered two shocks to the victim's heart, which was successfully beating again. Paramedics began treatment and took Mr. Terbenche to Toronto East General hospital, where he received an implanted pacemaker and defibrillator, and was back at work two months later. Lynn Wallace, President and CEO of Variety – The Children's Charity, said, "I am extremely proud of the quick response to this emergency by our staff. Their training and diligence helped save Mr. Terbenche's life, but we also owe a debt of gratitude to The Mikey Network for providing Variety Village with defibrillators."

Toronto EMS currently oversees more than 500 public access defibrillators. Chief Bruce Farr remarked, "Fitness facilities are prime locations for defibrillators, as they are considered high-risk for cardiac events. I would encourage others to follow Variety Village's lead."

In July, Mikey Network CEO Hugh Heron presented Mikey Medals to the four responders who helped to save Mr. Terbenche's life. "The Mikey Network works because our efforts are guided by ongoing inspiration from the legacy of kindness and caring left by Mike Salem, our Heathwood Homes and Heron Group partner and friend who died of sudden cardiac arrest on a golf course," he said. "And, for living proof that The Mikey Network really works, Daniel Terbenche is here at Variety Village, with the four responders who helped save his life using a Mikey."

Mikeys Mean Business

The Mikey Network has been focusing on places Mikeys in public areas that experience high volumes of traffic – sports facilities, community centres, libraries, tourist attractions, schools, etc. Another widespread at-risk place for sudden cardiac arrest to occur is in the workplace. Whether it's a small company with a few employees or a major firm with hundreds or more, we believe all businesses should be equipped with public-access defibrillators and people trained in their use.

In today's frantic working world, employee safety and wellness are major concerns. Many companies are implementing wellness initiatives to lessen the likelihood of things like sudden cardiac arrest – and of course, prevention is the best way to address heart problems. When a heart stops beating, however, being able to deliver shocks from a defibrillator within the first few minutes can mean the difference between life and death. With the proper training, using a Mikey is easier than you may think.

Wouldn't you like to have a Mikey in your workplace? You can place a Mikey directly through The Mikey Network, or hold fundraising events to raise the required funds. We will help to set up the training, place the order for the defibrillator we feel is best for your specific location(s), co-ordinate the installation, and even help with your fundraising efforts if possible. To inquire about obtaining a Mikey for your workplace, call 416-494-2230 or e-mail info@mikeynetwork.com.

How to Use a Mikey

1. Call 9-1-1.
2. Open the Mikey and turn it on. Now the Mikey will walk you through the process:
   
   • Remove clothing from patient.
   • Pull red handle and open bag.
   • Attach the pads.
   • The Mikey will advise you that it is doing an examination.
   • If a shock is required, the Mikey with prompty you.
   • The Mikey will also advise you if additional shocks are required.

What's Happening?

Chiropractic Community Blue Jays Day

On Sunday, July 27, 2008, the North York Chiropractic Society hosted a day at a Blue Jays game, with proceeds donated to The Mikey Network. Approximately 200 attended this fun afternoon. Each attendee from the Association received a special T-shirt marking the occasion. The resulting donations from the event are enough to purchase three Mikeys!

Canada's 911 Motorcycle Ride

Each year, "Canada's 911 Ride," raises money to create scholarship funds for the families of fallen police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, victims of violent crimes, AND to support The Mikey Network. This year's Canada's 911 Ride took place on Saturday and Sunday, August 23 and 24, beginning at Woodbine Race Track. The Ride took participants to Owen Sound for lunch and the donation of two Mikeys, one to Police Headquarters, and the other to a community centre. The Ride will then proceed to Collingwood and The Blue Mountain Resort for the night. On Sunday, riders traveled to Gravenhurst for a ceremony at the Ontario Fire College, and back to Toronto. For more information, visit www.canadas911ride.com.

1st Annual Peel Paramedic Ball Tournament

On Thursday, July 24, 2008, Peel Emergency Medical Services pitched in to help The Mikey Network by hosting a slo-pitch baseball tournament at Diamond Beach Sports Complex in Etobicoke. Teams from Peel, Toronto, York and Niagara participated, and the Toronto Blue Jays Road Crew made an appearance. Net Proceeds were donated to the Network.

Hugh Heron Honoured - Scottish Style

On February 6, 2008, nearly 900 real estate professionals, politicians and celebrities gathered at Toronto's Fairmont Royal York Hotel to celebrate Hugh Heron's accomplishments. To honour his Scottish roots, the event was themed a Celtic "Ceilidh" – a traditional Highlands-style gathering. The Toronto Fire Services Pipes and Drums and the Toronto Emergency Medical Services Honour Guard escorted Hugh and his family. At the podium, Heron expressed his thanks and delight with the evening's success, and summed up the tribute with, "Not bad for a wee boy from Glasgow!" Proceeds from ticket sales were donated to The Mikey Network.

Light and Bright in the Summer

by Marsha Rosen, RD (Registered Dietitian)

Summer is a great time to get into exercise, and we hope you'll consider joining, or even starting a Mikey Walking Club. This time of year is also a great time to eat lighter, with fresh vegetables and fruit so abundant. Here are some recipes and tips that can help.

Mikey Summer Smoothie (Serves 1)

• 1/2 Banana
• 1/2 Fresh Mango
• 6 Fresh Strawberries
• 1/4 cup Orange Juice
• 1/2 cup Frozen Low-Fat Yogurt

Method: Place all ingredients in a blender. Blend well and serve in a tall glass. If desired, substitute other fruits.

Barbecued Chicken Kabobs

• Skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks (4 ounces per skewer – one medium-size breast)
• Vegetable chunks (sweet onion, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, whole mushrooms, peppers, etc.)
• Salt-free rub or herb mix
• Barbecue sauce

Method: Soak wooden skewers in water before using. Plan on one large or two small skewers per person.

Sprinkle chicken with salt-free mix. Alternate chicken and vegetables on skewers. Be creative with colours and textures.

Place on barbeque and after 10 minutes, check chicken for doneness with a meat thermometer. Breast meat should be 170° to 180°F. It may take up to 20 or 30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chunks.

Toward the end of the barbecuing time, brush on some barbecue sauce for added sparkle – but use it sparingly. Many sauces are salty and high in sugar.

Saucy Summer Sangria

For a simple concoction when friends drop in during the summer, keep the following ingredients on hand. Have fun experimenting with amounts to taste.

• Fresh orange juice
• Lemonade
• Something fizzy (sparkling water, diet ginger ale, etc.)
• Splash of grenadine for colour (optional)
• Slices or chunks of fresh oranges, lemons and limes
• Ice cubes

Method: Place all ingredients in a blender. Blend well and serve in a tall glass. If desired, substitute other fruits.

Quick Snack Tip

Thinking of grabbing a cereal bar to take on your Walking Club outing? Read the label first. For every 100 calories in the bar, there should not be more than 3g of total fat. If the bar has 300 or more calories, just say NO – it no longer qualifies as a snack.