Researchers at the University of British Columbia are interested in talking to patients and/or their family members from diverse economic, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds about their views on making important and/or difficult healthcare decisions.

You may be eligible to take part in the study if you are an adult who has a physical disability and/or chronic health condition and have engaged in complex decision-making about your own healthcare, or has been a surrogate decision maker on behalf of a loved one.

The study will involve one 45-60 minute (longer if interpreters are used) in-person interview at a time and location that is convenient for you.  You will receive a $15 gift card in appreciation of your time and participation.

This research study is funded by the Canadian Institute of Health Research (CIHR), and has received approval from UBC’s Behavioural Research Ethics Board.

If you would like more information about this research study and/or to arrange to participate in the research, please contact the project research assistant, Kim Taylor: taylorka@exchange.ubc.ca.  You may also contact the Principal Investigator, Dr Anita Ho: anita.ho@ubc.ca

Starting October 31, 2012

A support group has begun for people living with ME/CFS (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) and FM (Fibromyalgia).

The main focus of the group is for members to support each other through acceptance, compassion and understanding, around the challenges of living with ME/CFS and FM. They do this through sharing of personal experiences, emotions, thoughts and reflections. Members look to each other not so much for advice as for empathy, connection and recognition of our shared experiences.

The group meets once a month, in the BCCPD Board room. Skype attendance is available for people who are physically unable to make meetings.

BCCPD is pleased to support this new group by providing meeting space.

For details, please visit the group’s website at mefmgroup.wordpress.com.

BCCPD’s Wellness & Disability Initiative/AIDS & Disability Action Program is delighted to announce two new resources featuring well-known Vancouver meditation instructor, Deborah Prieur. Mindfulness Meditation for Stress Reduction and Self Care is a video introduction and Guided Meditation on the Breath and Body Sensations is an audio guided meditation.

We are excited to offer this compelling and accessible introduction to Mindfulness meditation and welcome your feedback (email wdi@bccpd.bc.ca).  Access these resources through the links above or visit BCCPD’s YouTube channel for our complete collection of videos: http://www.youtube.com/user/TheBCCPD.