Written by Dr. Deane Studer, DC

The University of Alberta's Edmonton Transitions Study (ETS) caught my attention for several reasons. I grew up just outside of Edmonton in the 1980s, graduated in 1985, and I'm a Gen X. The ETS was designed to look at how, over time, society changes us. In Canada, this study has turned into one of the longest studies of its kind. In 1985, close to 1,000 graduating high school students signed up for the research survey and over the past 35 years the numbers have dwindled down to approximately 400. The study was designed by a sociologist, psychologist, and human ecologist to better understand the trends and patterns that occur from ages 18 to 50. Life has many defining moments when it comes to employment/occupation, relationships/marriage, children, and happiness/self-esteem. Their findings reveal some interesting insights and some unexpected discoveries. We all have situational bias and project stereotypes upon ourselves and those around us. Science can expose some valuable information about us and has clearly demonstrated that what we think is not always true. As Don Miguel Ruiz writes in his book, The Four Agreements, don't make assumptions and "find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want."

We are going through a pivotal moment in history and there is a change happening around us on a grassroots level. It's time to start asking better questions and not settling for mediocre answers. We must be strong mentally, physically, and emotionally to pursue our fundamental privileges—clean air, food, water, and a health care system that actually supports the therapies that produce results.

When it comes to health care, how do you want to age? Look at how the majority of our grandparents are aging. Does that seem like a path you want to walk down? Who controls the health care industry? Do you know where your health care dollars go? I support local businesses who operate in my community. I want to support people and individuals who share similar interests and believe there is a more sustainable way to live life. Our strength comes from that spark of life from within. The health of everything around us is in our hands and in our actions. My energy and work as a chiropractor in Vernon are dedicated to improving our capacity and resiliency for the challenges that we all face today and into the future.