Technology for Living

09/18/2026

🫁 Monthly Refresher Course: Tracheostomy and Ventilation Management PB560

For people who use a tracheostomy and ventilator at home, having the right knowledge and preparation can make a big difference.

Our online refresher course reviews essential tracheostomy and ventilator management skills to help caregivers feel more confident supporting someone safely at home.

The course is also a helpful refresher for anyone who wants to review these important skills: https://www.technologyforliving.org/refresher-tracheostomy-ventilation-pb560/ #/

09/17/2026

Independence starts with the right tools. 🏠✨

Our TIL program provides Environmental Control Systems that help members with high-level physical disabilities control everyday things like TVs, lights, thermostats, door openers, and smart locks. Members can use switches, voice commands, or touch to operate these equipment.

Our technicians work with members to find solutions that fit their needs, and the services are provided at no cost, including assessments and installation.

Learn more about TIL here:

The devices and technology provided by Technology for Living are intended solely for convenience purposes and should not be used in emergency situations. These solutions are designed to assist with non-emergency requests and daily living needs.

09/14/2026

📰 Our September issue of Balance is here! ✨

In this article, read how Vancouver Police Sergeant Lee Marten, a Technology for Living member living with ALS, became the first Canadian to receive a Neuralink brain implant, and the first person to have it placed using a new, less invasive surgical method.

The implant lets Lee control his computer with his thoughts alone, opening up new ways to communicate as ALS changes what's possible day to day.

As our PROP RRT Michael Bossaer writes: "Working with people like Lee is a reminder that assistive technology isn't just about devices or innovation; it's about preserving independence, connection, and dignity."

📖 Read the full issue here: https://issuu.com/technologyforliving/docs/balancesept2026

09/09/2026

🌿 Accessible Nature Well-being Program 🌿

Join us with EcoWisdom on September 30th at vanDusen Gardens for an afternoon of accessible nature-based activities and well-being.

The program will include:

🌱 Learning about the benefits of forest bathing

🌿 Nature-based mindfulness activities

🌸 Exploring the colours, textures, scents and beauty of nature

Light lunch: 12:00–1:00 pm

Nature Program: 1:00–3:00 pm

The program is designed to be accessible to people living with disabilities, chronic illness and/or neurodiversity.

Registration is required: https://ecowisdom.mykajabi.com/register-for-anwp-vandusen-sep-2026

Spinal Cord Injury BC, South Fraser Active Living

09/08/2026

Last Friday marked Adam’s last day at Technology for Living as our Biomedical Engineering Technologist Summer Student.

We’re so grateful for all of his hard work, enthusiasm, and contributions to our team over the summer. It was a pleasure having him as part of TFL!

We wish him all the best in his studies and everything ahead. We’ll miss having him around and hope to see all the great things he accomplishes in the future.

Thank you, Adam, and best of luck! 😊

09/01/2026

Save the Date! 📣

We’re excited to host the 12th Annual Simon Cox Student Design Competition on April 24, 2027! 🎓💡

The competition brings together post-secondary students from institutions across BC and people with disabilities to collaborate and develop innovative solutions that improve accessibility and independence.

📅 April 24, 2027
📍 Blusson Spinal Cord Centre, Vancouver, BC

🔗 Learn more about the Competition at https://www.technologyforliving.org/simon-cox-competition/

08/12/2026

International Youth Day 2026 💙

"Different Contexts, Common Aspirations"

Today, we acknowledge the voices, experiences, and contributions of youth around the world.

While every young person’s circumstances and experiences are different, many share common hopes: to learn, participate, have opportunities, and build a future where they can thrive.

At TFL, our work reminds us of the importance of creating inclusive and accessible opportunities for young people of all abilities. Through our work with youth, including our Youth Assistive Technology program, we see the difference that access, inclusion, and the right support can make.

This International Youth Day, we recognize young people not only for the future they represent, but for the perspectives, ideas, and contributions they bring to our communities today.

https://social.desa.un.org/issues/youth/events/international-youth-day-2026

https://www.technologyforliving.org/application-for-yat-services/

About International Youth DayObserved annually on 12 August, International Youth Day raises awareness of the challenges and opportunities facing young people around the world and celebrates their role as essential partners in achieving sustainable development.The observance provides a platform for g...

08/06/2026

BiPAP Therapy & Mental Health 💙

Explore the connection between BiPAP therapy and mental health for people living with Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome (OHS) and neuromuscular disorders.

While BiPAP therapy plays an important role in supporting breathing and improving oxygenation, it can also contribute to better sleep, mood, concentration, and daytime energy. The article also highlights some of the challenges that can come with adapting to long-term device use, including discomfort, claustrophobia, and emotional resistance.

In this Balance article, Alex Yu, our PROP RRT, shares supportive strategies that can help make BiPAP therapy more comfortable and manageable, while highlighting the importance of addressing both physical and emotional wellbeing.

📖 Read the full article to learn more!

https://issuu.com/technologyforliving/docs/balance_26_june_2026

08/05/2026

What Members Told Us 💬

This year, we took the opportunity to listen directly to our members and learn more about their experiences with TFL's services. Through four 90-minute focus groups, members shared what TFL does well, what our services mean to them personally, and where there may be opportunities to improve. Their feedback provides valuable insight into the impact of our programs and helps guide how we continue to support the people we serve.

One powerful reflection from a member was: "PROP and TIL have given me my independence." 💙

Read the full story, What Members Told Us, in the latest issue of Balance to hear directly from our members and learn more about their experiences and perspectives!

07/29/2026

TFL Peer Updates: August & Upcoming Events 🌟

Build community, share your story, and connect with peers in supportive virtual spaces designed for creativity, conversation, and connection.

🔹 OHS Peer Meetings (Saturday, August 1st @11 AM PST)

A supportive peer space for individuals living with Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another in a safe and understanding environment. 🤝

👉 https://www.technologyforliving.org/ohs

🔹 Peers on Pages (Thursday, August 6th @ 4PM PST)

A welcoming creative writing workshop where stories, poetry, reflections, and lived experiences come together. Your voice matters and your creativity is welcome. 📝

👉 https://tinyurl.com/TFLPeersOnPages

🔹 AGM 2026 (Tuesday, Sept 22nd @6 PM PST) ✨

You're invited to our Annual General Meeting! Join us to celebrate the past year's accomplishments, hear important organizational updates, and connect with TFL staff, Board members, and fellow community members. No registration is required, simply click the Zoom link below to join the meeting.

👉 https://tinyurl.com/TFL-AGM-2026

We look forward to seeing you at these events!

NOTE:

🔹 Peer Hub Update: There is no Peer Hub meeting in August. Thank you for being such an important part of our peer community, we look forward to reconnecting with everyone at our next session in September!