Latest news with #LionsClubsInternational
The Citizen
29-05-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Serving over 50 000 individuals annually with Alberton Lions Club
Alberton Lions Club is a registered NPO and was chartered in 1970, serving the community of Alberton and surrounding areas for 55 years. The club is proudly part of Lions Clubs International and currently comprises 49 members, making it one of the largest clubs in the district of 410E. Their motto, 'We Serve',' is how they operate as a club. Respect, gratitude and appreciation are values which they all live by. Their president, LP Mukesh Dayah, chose to make the theme of his year's Strength in Oneness'. His vision is that they all operate from a mindset connected by the spirit of serving. Hunger alleviation is one of their international pillars focusing on assisting the needy. The club serves up to 50 000 meals annually, and its projects include: • 500 warm meals provided a month through soup kitchens with various organisations within their community. • Every quarter, the Alberton Lions Club packs 100 food parcels to assist registered families in need. • Each month, they do a food collection of non-perishable items, which gets included in their food parcels, as well as pet food to feed the cats at the Police Station and dogs at the SPCA. • They currently have a 'Sock and Soup' drive to warm the tummies and toes of their community. • They provide fresh fruit, vegetables and non-perishable items for selected early childhood development centres, taking the financial burden off the teachers and allowing them to focus on educating the children. • Once a month, they deliver smart meals to 100 elderly individuals and families at three government-owned old age homes. With the need increasing daily, they require assistance from companies and individual families to help feed those who would otherwise go to bed hungry. They have sourced a delicious meal, which feeds 10 adults for R44 per kilogram. This meal is quick to cook, tasty, and very nutritious. Should you be interested in supporting their quest to feed those in need within the community, contact service chair Melinda Strydom on 076 036 9499 or email service@ At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Tokyo Weekender
26-05-2025
- Health
- Tokyo Weekender
The Central Japan International Medical Center Is Revolutionizing Cancer Care
Nestled in the heart of Japan , the brand-new Central Japan International Medical Center (CJIMC) stands as a beacon of excellence in global health care. With state-of-the-art facilities and highly advanced technology, coupled with an intense focus on quality of care, CJIMC is emerging as a premier destination for international patients seeking top-tier medical services in Asia. 'Having seen medical care from all over the world, I designed this medical center with a global approach, equipped to treat patients from all backgrounds. The facility is supposed to feel more like a hotel than a hospital,' explains Dr. Jitsuhiro Yamada, the chairperson of Central Japan International Medical Center and a past international president of Lions Clubs International. CJIMC caters to patients of all backgrounds and nationalities — among them, medical tourists who come to Japan specifically to access cutting-edge care at a comparatively low cost. The facility offers a wide variety of services, including comprehensive health screenings and checkups, but what perhaps stands out most is its Proton Therapy Center, which is home to one of the world's most advanced and innovative radiation oncology treatment systems. Varian ProBeam 360° Revolutionizing Cancer Care At the heart of CJIMC's Proton Therapy Center lies the Varian ProBeam 360°, a highly advanced proton therapy system made in the US . Unlike traditional radiation therapy (which uses X-ray and gamma ray particles), the ProBeam 360° uses a proton particle beam, which is able to accurately zero in on tumors; this allows for unparalleled precision in targeting cancerous cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues, proving particularly effective for treating cancers in delicate locations. 'Cancer is the scariest diagnosis a patient can receive,' Dr. Yamada says. 'We've integrated the ProBeam 360°, a highly effective, third-generation proton therapy equipment.' This cutting-edge treatment is offered in very few locations worldwide. 'We're working hard to make it easier for international patients to receive cutting-edge cancer treatment here.' Dr. Jitsuhiro Yamada The Proton Therapy Center is led by Dr. Nobukazu Fuwa, one of Japan's most respected radiation oncology experts, and treatments are delivered on an outpatient basis. Each treatment session usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, meaning that patients spend just a fraction of their day in the hospital. Though it varies based on cancer type and severity, Dr. Yamada says that proton therapy can sometimes conclude in around 21 sessions — for example, in the case of prostate cancer — allowing patients to receive a full course of treatment in a single month. It's an especially appealing option given the high costs of healthcare in America. 'With proton therapy that uses the American-made Varian system, even after purchasing round-trip airfare to Japan and getting gifts for your family here, the total cost would still be lower than just receiving treatment in the US,' notes Dr. Yamada. Elmammo PET scanner A Leading Force in Preventive Medicine Beyond specialized treatment, CJIMC is also a hub for preventive care and comprehensive health screening. The hospital offers full-body checkup packages designed to detect health issues at their earliest, most treatable stages — including full-body cancer screenings, cardiovascular system screenings and brain screenings. As such, it's an ideal destination for health-conscious travelers seeking peace of mind. The full-body cancer screening course includes an MRI, blood testing and a PET/CT scan, a combined imaging test that shows both the metabolic activity and detailed anatomy of one's body. In America, PET scans can cost several thousand dollars, and insurance can refuse to cover the examination if it's deemed not medically necessary. CJIMC is also equipped with an Elmammo PET scanner, a PET imaging system dedicated exclusively to breast cancer detection. This groundbreaking technology delivers highly accurate results without the discomfort of traditional mammography, making it an extremely popular option for female patients. International Support and Accessibility Recognizing the increasing demand from international patients, CJIMC works with English-speaking coordinators to assist with every step, from scheduling and payment to medical interpretation and aftercare support. Patient privacy and comfort are a top priority, and the facility's staff work hard to ensure that every international visitor experiences seamless, compassionate and culturally sensitive care. Although some overseas visitors may not be familiar with Gifu, it's centrally located and easy to reach from any of Japan's major cities. Situated just over an hour from Chubu Centrair International Airport and within easy reach of Nagoya, the hospital is easily accessible by high-speed rail, expressway or plane. Moreover, Gifu's beautiful nature and rich cultural heritage offer a peaceful and restorative environment — ideal for recovery and rehabilitation. Patients can experience the tranquility of Japan's heartland while receiving world-class medical care. Inuyama Inuyama Culture, History and Natural Beauty The medical center is located in close proximity to a number of scenic and culturally rich locations, which patients can explore once their treatment has concluded. Among them is the picturesque mountain village of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its traditional gassho-zukuri thatched-roof farmhouses — an enchanting, fairy tale-esque view. Nearby, the Okuhida region beckons with its dramatic 3,000-meter-class peaks and a wealth of natural hot springs, perfect for relaxation and recovery. Access is convenient: It takes just about 1 hour and 40 minutes by express train from the medical center to Takayama Station, which serves as the gateway to all these areas. The town of Inuyama, which neighbors CJIMC, is also full of things to do. It's home to Inuyama Castle, one of the five national treasure castles in Japan alongside Himeji and Matsumoto castles. Its main keep offers panoramic views of the Kiso River. The area surrounding the castle retains its Edo-period charm, with narrow lanes lined with traditional merchant houses, quaint shops and local eateries. The castle town is domestically known for the Inuyama Festival in early April, where intricately decorated floats are paraded through the streets, illuminated by hundreds of lanterns. Museum Meiji-Mura Museum Meiji-Mura Just a short distance from the castle, Museum Meiji-Mura is an open-air museum showcasing over 60 culturally significant buildings from the Meiji era. Among its treasures is the reconstructed main entrance of Tokyo's old Imperial Hotel, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Visitors can explore historic structures, ride a steam locomotive and wander through all 100 hectares of the whimsical park-museum steeped in nostalgia and historical significance. Elevating Global Health Standards As the world becomes more interconnected, the need for trusted, globally accessible health care providers continues to grow. With its fusion of cutting-edge technology, medical expertise and patient-centered care, Central Japan International Medical Center is poised to become a global leader in modern medicine. Whether it's the quiet dignity of individualized care or the seamless integration of some of the world's most advanced medical innovations, CJIMC embodies the values that have long placed Japan at the forefront of health care globally. 'I always teach new doctors that the center of medicine is not the doctor, but the patient. Patients come to us troubled by illness, and it is our job as doctors to use our knowledge to support them,' says Dr. Yamada. More Info Central Japan International Medical Center 1-1 Kenkonomachi, Minokamo, Gifu 505-8510 T: +81 574-66-1100
The Citizen
13-05-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Make a difference: donate to Alberton Lions Club
The Alberton Lions Club is a community service organisation and part of the Lions Clubs International. They focus on various service projects that improve the local community and support those in need. The club has done so for 55 years. Their pillars of service include vision, hunger, youth, disaster relief, health initiatives and environmental projects. The club appeals to the community to help with donations on their wish list, where possible. Wish list: • Knitting machine and wool to knit scarves; • Wool and knitted baby clothing, booties, teddy bears and beanies for the mommy care bags that go to new moms and babies at the South Rand Hospital; • Fleece material for blankets and toiletries for the mommy care bags; • Food parcels for the elderly and less fortunate. One R44 meal pack feeds 16 adults a nutritious, hearty meal; • Spectacles for better vision because they provide spectacles at a low cost to their community. You can sponsor someone a pair of glasses for R300 or ask them how you can get your next spectacles at a reduced price; • Christmas in July is one of the most liked projects within the club. Entertaining 155 disadvantaged youngsters for the day, they need 155 water bottles, gift bags, stationery, toiletries and any contents to fill the gift bags. On the day, they provide breakfast and lunch, and your help with hot dogs (rolls and Vienna), margarine or cool drinks would be appreciated; • Stationery packs for needy scholars; • School shoes made from recycled IV drip bags are available at R35 a pair. Sponsor a child with a pair and change their life; • For their Soup and Sock Drive in May and June, they ask the community to donate socks and soup for the young and/or elderly. • Toiletries for seniors are needed monthly to help Sassa pensioners. • The Knockers Project collects slightly worn bras for ladies dealing with cancer. The club's knitters knit knockers and hand out bras and knockers to these ladies, along with a lot of love. The club host various fundraisers throughout the year to continue serving their community. One of the biggest is the tasty Christmas cakes, which you can buy from the club from October each year. Keep up to date with the Alberton Lions on their Facebook page or join their meetings at 19:00 on the third Monday of each month at the Reading Country Club. For more details, WhatsApp or call Lion Melinda on 076 036 9499 or email service@ At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
South Wales Argus
08-05-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Chepstow & Caldicot Lions Club wins international award
The Chepstow & Caldicot Lions Club was awarded the Lions International Marketing Award for its "Meet the Lions" campaign. The campaign, which used digital storytelling and social media, was created to spotlight members and their community service experiences. This initiative not only increased local awareness but also led to a boost in membership, demonstrating the power of personal stories in motivating collective action. Brian Waters, marketing officer for the club, said: "Our aim was to make the Lions' message more relatable by showing the real people behind the mission. "To be recognised on the international stage is an incredible honour—and more importantly, it means more eyes on our work, more members, and more service." The club was selected from hundreds of entries worldwide, and in addition to the recognition, the club has been awarded a grant to continue building its marketing efforts and expanding its community service footprint. The Chepstow & Caldicot Lions Club is part of Lions Clubs International, the world's largest service club organisation with over 1.4 million members worldwide. The club continues to support local needs through volunteer service, fellowship, and outreach. The club invites community members who are interested in learning more or getting involved to connect through its ongoing #MeetTheLions series on Facebook and Instagram. The series is part of the club's efforts to engage with the community and increase awareness of its work. It is hoped that the international recognition will help to further increase awareness and membership, enabling it to continue its work in the community. The Chepstow & Caldicot Lions Club remains committed to serving the community and looks forward to welcoming new members inspired by its award-winning campaign.
Hamilton Spectator
06-05-2025
- Health
- Hamilton Spectator
Fort Erie providing $100K toward Wilson House hospice gardens
An additional $100,000 contribution to Willson House, a 10-bed hospice under construction in Fort Erie's north end, has been awarded by town council toward the creation of two therapeutic gardens. Council's decision came after a presentation during its Monday meeting by Carol Nagy, executive director of Hospice Niagara, who asked the town to match the Ridgeway Lions Club's community fundraising efforts. The town had previously committed $150,00 to the hospice project. With the additional funding, Fort Erie's total contribution will be $250,000. Willson House is scheduled to open in late 2026 next to Gilmore Lodge on King Street. It will provide end-of-life care for residents in Fort Erie, with design features aimed at promoting accessibility and a connection to nature. Nagy said limited space on the property led designers to focus on building two internal courtyards that will serve as therapeutic gardens. Both will be fully accessible, with one by a children's therapy centre and the other next to patient rooms. 'We went out for consultation with this community, and it was very important for people living here, as well as the Indigenous community, that they feel the outside come into the building,' she said. 'We know living in these rural areas that nature has healing properties and is so important to our health and mental health.' Ridgeway Lions Club began fundraising for one of the therapeutic gardens in mid-2023. The club has raised $250,000, supported by donations, community events and a grant from Lions Clubs International of $77,544 (U.S.). 'This was a big thing for our (Lions) club to do for the community, for hospice,' said Ron Brummer, a member of the Lions Club. To ensure both courtyards could be built, Nagy asked council to match the Lions' efforts with an additional $100,000. An initial recommendation from town staff suggested referring the request to 2026 budget deliberations. However, Nagy warned a delay could force Hospice Niagara to take out a loan to meet construction deadlines. In response, councillors voted to pull the item from the consent agenda and approved the funding from the town's community health and wellness reserve. '(Making) the decision sooner rather than later is best for you, that would be best for us to move forward,' Mayor Wayne Redekop said. 'This is a fantastic project for the municipality and we have been very supportive of it.' Nagy said donations are still being accepted, and similar funding efforts are underway in other municipalities across the region.
