Ottawans are tough people. Let’s face it, most winters (with the past few winters being the exception thanks to global warming) we bundle up in layers of hideous clothing to brave some pretty vile weather. But somehow, we embrace it, pull down our tuques and hit local slopes, toboggan hills, [...]

“As someone who has grown up with dogs, I am so passionate about educating Canadians on why they should turn to a shelter when looking to add a dog to their family,” said Kurt Browning.“

Hoopla Guru Lainie Towell gave the gift of Ottawa Life, and introduced her new company Stunt Woman
in a Pencil Skirt, on one of December’s most frigid mornings.

A lot has changed over the last fifty years around the Disabled Persons Community Resources (DPCR). To reflect its contemporary role and character, in June, 2009, DPCR changed its name to The In Community, inspired by its 50th anniversary theme: Inclusion, Integration, and Independence.

In a quiet corner of the Canadian War Museum, Julian Krajewski stares at a poster from the Second World War. “Yes, you boys and girls can help win the war,” the poster declared. Krajewski, a 16-year-old resident of suburban Montreal, scrutinized the poster with 21st-century eyes. “That’s actually a really good ad,” he said finally. “It hits everyone. It’s cool.”

Jody Mitic, a soldier who lost both legs below the knee after stepping on a landmine in Afghanistan two-and-a-half years ago, has set his sights on completing his first-ever half marathon, in Canada Army Run, on September 20. Fitted with two prosthetic legs, Mitic will be joining 10,000 civilians and military personnel in what many describe as the most unique running event in Canada. From the canon used as a “starter’s pistol” to the dog-tag finishers’ medals, this run has a military theme from start to finish, and provides a great opportunity to say “thanks” to the men and women who do so much for us at home and abroad. Find out more at www.armyrun.ca

Feeling Your Pain
Dr. Hillel M. Finestone, an Ottawa doctor and specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Bruyère Continuing Care, Elisabeth Bruyère Hospital, is the author of a new book called The Pain Detective, Every Ache Tells a Story: Understanding How Stress and Emotional Hurt Become Chronic Physical Pain.