January 29, 2025

The Printable Pancreas: 3D Printing Better Health

On January 23rd, 1922, a 14-year boy, Leonard Thompson, received a refined form of insulin derived from a cow pancreas and symptoms from his type 1 diabetes rapidly improved. Two Canadian researchers, Banting and Best are credited with...
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Peter Yurek behind bad gifts
January 11, 2025

We Need a Museum of Bad Gifts Too!

We Need a Museum of Bad Gifts Too! Toronto has one and I think the same thing could serve useful purposes right here in St. Thomas. Here are my reasons: We’ve got a good sense of humour I...
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January 8, 2025

Get into the Swing of Pickleball

Growing up, sports were a big part of my life. They allowed me to burn off some of my excess energy. They also taught me lessons in sportsmanship, fair play, how to win graciously and lose with dignity....
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Bear cozy in winter
January 8, 2025

If bears can manage winter, so can we!

If you are someone who’s not thrilled about the arrival of winter, you're in good company with about 400,000 bears across Canada! Bears prepare thoroughly, create a cozy den, and adapt their lifestyle to the season. While they...
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Peter Yurek
December 26, 2024

Winter Hacks for (ahem) Silver Survivors

When I was growing up, I loved the winter — playing hockey, making snowmen, snowball fights with my siblings and neighbours, Christmas holidays and snow days (when school was cancelled). Believe it or not, I even enjoyed driving...
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Peter Yurek
December 7, 2024

How do you get the most out of your weekend?

Did you know we have over 400 blog posts about various healthcare topics? You can find them at https://yurekpharmacy.com/blog/ and search for a topic that interests you. Today, I thought I’d take a sharp turn out of what...
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by Peter Yurek, BSc.Phm
November 13, 2024

Healthspan Over Lifespan

Age might just be a number, though it does dictate how much time we have to do things we love. This has led more people to think: how can I live a longer life? Recent developments in science...
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What Do You Think About Adult Gap Year? — By Rhoda Miller
November 6, 2024

What Do You Think About Adult Gap Year?

Taking an “adult gap year” is an idea that’s gaining traction among Canadians, as more people choose to take extended breaks mid-career to travel, pursue personal interests, or simply recharge. Reported in a recent CBC article by Brandie...
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November 3, 2024

A Pharmacist Knits to Feel Better?

Yes, really! In addition to giving my family a useful present made with love, knitting gives me the following health benefits: The dexterity required in knitting improves my fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Both are useful as...
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November 3, 2024

Benefits of Carrying a Personal First Aid Kit

I am a minimalist and like to travel light.  When going out, I grab my phone, wallet, and keys. However, do believe in preparing for what life throws at you.  That’s why I recommend carrying a personal first-aid...
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October 9, 2024

BROMINATED VEGETABLE OIL (BVO)

What is it and how does it affect the average person? There can be many different food additives in the processed foods we eat and drink. Health Canada makes sure those ingredients are safe for consumers. They rely...
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October 6, 2024

Personal Values = the Rhythm of Your Life

For 30+ years, I have had to juggle many things in life including making thousands of decisions along the way. It’s an empowering, yet daunting task - especially when you have work and family commitments, as well as...
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Steve Bond, Pharmacist at Yurek Pharmacy & Home Healthcare in St. Thomas.
October 5, 2024

The Horrible Health Hazards of Halloween

Halloween is a whimsical holiday where children and adults can pretend to be someone else — a superhero, a ghost, or a character from their favourite show. Canadians will spend billions on costumes, decorations and of course candy!...
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