Canadians stretch their limits for people with vision loss

CNIB launches new health and wellness and fundraising initiative - The Great Canadian Yoga Stretch

TORONTO, April 26 /CNW/ - As part of Vision Health Month in May, CNIB is launching the first ever Great Canadian Yoga Stretch. The month-long, nationwide campaign hopes to promote eye health and raise funds for CNIB programs and services in support of people who are blind or partially sighted as well as help Canadians get and stay active.

Participants will choose a personal "stretch goal" at the beginning of the month, which could be anything from completing their first yoga class to mastering a difficult pose to a 30-day challenge. They'll then solicit donations from friends and family for CNIB, and spend the rest of May working to achieve their goal.

"Almost anyone can do yoga regardless of age, experience or level of vision," says CNIB President and CEO, John M. Rafferty. "Yoga is an accessible sport and we're encouraging all Canadians to take part in the campaign."

According to the event's creator and chair, Tanya Geisler, the Great Canadian Yoga Stretch is the perfect union of improving personal wellness and supporting the vital services of CNIB.

"As a life coach, I help people get 'unstuck' in life...," says Geisler. "As a yoga fan, I love sharing the mind and body benefits of the practice with people I meet. I conceived of the Great Canadian Yoga Stretch campaign as a means to marry these two notions - and build support for CNIB programs at the same time!"

At the end of the month all participants are invited to celebration events in local communities across Canada. These celebration events will be held on May 29 and 30 and feature a special accessible yoga practice. Those participants who generate the most funds are eligible for grand prizes, including a relaxing yoga getaway at CNIB's Lake Joseph Centre in the heart of Ontario's Muskoka region.

Funds raised in the Great Canadian Yoga Stretch will go toward CNIB's practical support services for people with vision loss, like mobility training, career assistance and emotional counselling.

To get involved in the Great Canadian Yoga Stretch, visit www.greatcanadianyogastretch.ca.

About Vision Health Month

Every 12 minutes, someone in Canada begins to lose their eyesight. But did you know that 75 per cent of vision loss can be prevented? This May, CNIB is launching its first ever Vision Health Month, a month filled with special events and activities designed to educate Canadians about protecting their eyes, preserving their sight and enjoying a healthy lifestyle. All funds raised during Vision Health Month will support vision health research, public education and vital programs and services for blind and partially sighed Canadians.

About CNIB

CNIB provides community-based support, knowledge and a national voice to ensure Canadians who are blind or partially sighted have the confidence, skills and opportunities to fully participate in life. With 900 employees and 10,000 volunteers working out of offices across the country, CNIB serves thousands of Canadians of all ages. For more information, visit www.cnib.ca or call 1-800-563-2642.

Web

www.cnib.ca

www.greatcanadianyogastretch.ca

For further information: To speak to a CNIB spokesperson please contact: Yeena Peng, Specialist, Media Relations, CNIB, T: [phone] ext. 8355, C: [phone], E: [email protected]