Health
106-Year-Old Manchester Woman Credits Long Life To Laughter And Steering Clear Of Men
Mary Spiers of Manchester turns 106, celebrating more than a century of life with a spirit as vibrant as ever. As she reflects on her incredible journey, Mary shares the wisdom and choices that she believes have contributed to her longevity choices that include a life free from alcohol, smoking, and men. Her philosophy is simple: embrace each day with humor, even when life is tough. “I’ve got a sense of humor, and it gets you through some difficult times. It’s not been all happy. It’s been sad in lots of ways.
Mary’s life story is one of resilience and independence. After losing her boyfriend, an RAF man she met during World War II, Mary chose a different path, one filled with adventure and self-sufficiency. Instead of settling down with a partner, she lived with her two sisters, Ruth and Dorothy, who, like her, had lost their sweethearts during the war. The three women created a close-knit family, sharing a home in Cheshire until just a month ago.
“No one would have me!” Mary joked about her single status. “But I’m here to tell the tale. I had two lovely sisters, and we were very close. We were what you call a close-knit family. At times it wasn’t easy, there wasn’t much money coming in. But we did everything together.”
Mary’s life was far from ordinary. From surviving the bombings of Southampton during the war to working 14 different jobs across the country, including stints as a cleaner, weaver, cinema usher, and even working on General Montgomery’s car while employed at Chrysler, she embraced every challenge with determination. “I remember the bombs, the incendiary bombs, everywhere shattered. Once you’ve heard one, you never want to hear another one. I’m lucky to be here really. Lots of those boys who fought, a lot of them were only 17. Let’s hope we never have another war,” Mary recalled.
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As she celebrates her 106th birthday, Mary reflects on the legacy she has built. Although she has outlived her sisters, she is surrounded by the love of her extended family and friends. Her cousin and next of kin, Henry Hesketh, 89, describes her as a beacon of joy. “She’s been wonderful. As a child, she used to do a lot for me. But all my life she’s been there. We’re very proud of her. As a person, she’s always got a joke for you every five minutes. You just have to laugh. She’s just a happy person. And I think that’s why she’s still with us because she looks on the bright side the whole time.”
The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has suspended health contracts worldwide, leaving critical healthcare programs and assistance in jeopardy.
The decision, part of a review aimed at aligning
foreign aid with the Trump administration’s “America First” policy, has resulted in the termination of more than 90% of global health
programs, including those addressing HIV, malaria, maternal health, and other vital services.
The sudden and widespread cuts have sparked
widespread concern among health experts and organizations, who warn that the move will have devastating consequences for millions of people worldwide.
“The US funding cuts are dismantling the system. HIV treatment is crumbling. TB services are collapsing… Lives are on the line,” said International AIDS Society President Beatriz Grinsztejn, whose organization is not directly affected by the cuts.
In South Africa, several of the largest US-funded HIV/AIDS programs have been informed that their funding will not resume, leaving vulnerable groups, including LGBT+ individuals and sex workers, without access to critical healthcare services.
A major global non-profit working on malaria and maternal and newborn health has also had most of its contracts cancelled.
The US State Department has remained tight-lipped about the criteria used for the terminations, and it remains unclear how many organizations worldwide have been affected.
However, documents reviewed by Reuters confirm that UNAIDS, the UN agency dedicated to tackling HIV and AIDS, has had its contract with USAID cancelled.
The move has sparked widespread criticism, with many arguing that the cuts will undermine global health progress and put millions of lives at risk.
“This is a devastating blow to global health efforts,” said a spokesperson for the Global Health Council. “The US has long been a leader in global health, and these cuts will have far-reaching consequences for some of
the world’s most vulnerable populations.”
CARICOM and the UNEP World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC) have partnered to strengthen biodiversity monitoring and conservation efforts across the Caribbean. This collaboration aims to enhance data collection, support sustainable ecosystem management, and protect the region’s rich biodiversity. By advancing the understanding of ecosystems and species trends, CARICOM and UNEP-WCMC are empowering Caribbean nations to make more informed environmental decisions. The initiative includes training local experts, integrating cutting-edge technologies, and fostering partnerships to promote resilience against climate change and biodiversity loss. This joint effort supports global conservation goals while preserving the Caribbean’s natural heritage for future generations. Join us in celebrating this significant step toward a healthier, more biodiverse Caribbean!
Welcome to the highly anticipated 23rd volume of Diaspora Watch, your indispensable source connecting the vibrant African diaspora around the world! This edition is packed with captivating stories and in-depth analysis.
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Breast cancer is often perceived as a disease that affects only women, but experts are warning that men are also at risk. While the majority of breast cancer cases are diagnosed in women, a growing body of research highlights that men, too, can develop this disease, albeit at lower rates. Male breast cancer may go undetected for longer periods due to a lack of awareness, leading to more advanced stages by the time of diagnosis.
Experts emphasize that early detection is crucial for both men and women. Symptoms like lumps, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or changes in breast shape should never be ignored, regardless of gender. Genetic factors such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations can increase the risk of breast cancer in men, just as they do in women.
In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, health professionals are advocating for increased awareness and education on male breast cancer. Men are encouraged to perform self-examinations and seek medical advice if they notice any unusual changes. Early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
By breaking down gender stereotypes and raising awareness, the medical community hopes to prevent unnecessary delays in diagnosis for men, saving lives and reducing the stigma associated with this disease.
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Aso Villa Rolls Out Red Carpet For Nigeria’s First Super Bowl Winner, Moro Ojomo
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Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
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