Inhale the present, exhale the past.

Now, let your breath guide you back to the present moment, where peace and mindfulness reside.

Thank you for reading today’s edition of Grateful Gazette 😌

Here’s what to know for Friday:

• Brampton teen keeps hockey dreams alive despite cancer

• How ‘sponge cities’ could change urban design

• 94-year-old’s inspiring quest to see the world

CHASING HOCKEY DREAMS DESPITE CANCER DIAGNOSIS

Eli Craig is a 13-year-old hockey player from Brampton, Ontario, who's facing off against a rare form of cancer with one goal in mind: playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Yup—nothing, not even radiation and chemo, can bench Eli's hockey dreams!

Last June, a dirt bike tumble led to doctors discovering his first tumor while treating his abdomen.

After treatment, he was back, gliding across the ice like a pro. However, life threw another curveball in December when Eli found out the cancer had spread.

But guess what? Eli's resilience is downright inspiring.

Despite facing chemotherapy, he managed to suit up and join his team for a playoff game last February.

And here's the heartwarming part: Eli isn't just playing for the love of the game. He's out there to inspire other kids facing similar battles.

But Eli's not alone in this fight.

His family and friends are rallying around him, cheering him on every step of the way.

And his return to the rink?

Eli's coach was blown away when he showed up for a playoff game straight from the hospital.

Teammates couldn't help but notice Eli's infectious energy and determination, even after battling it out in the hospital for eight days straight.

Last weekend, Brampton Hockey organized a special coaches versus coaches game in honor of Eli's journey.

The stands were packed with folks donning #EliStrong hoodies, showing solidarity and support for their hockey hero. Even Wendel Clark, yes, THE Wendel Clark, joined in on the action.

Despite the hurdles, Eli's tumors have finally hit pause on their growth, giving him some much-needed relief. With radiation on the horizon, Eli's positive outlook continues to shine as bright as the ice under those skates.

🦁 South Africa commits to ending cruel lion breeding practices

🐢 Jekyll Island witnesses historic sea turtle release event

🍲 Canada’s quest for a national school food program

🙊 Thailand takes action: Monkeys in Lopburi face animal control measures due to anthrax outbreak

💦 Sponge cities: A radical approach to urban flooding

🐮 Nature Foundation acquires cattle property to safeguard malleefowl in South Australia

Joy Ryan, spunky 94-year-old from Duncan Falls, Ohio, isn't letting her age slow her down one bit.

Last year, she made headlines as the oldest person to conquer all 63 U.S. National Parks.

And now?

Well, she's taken her wanderlust to a whole new level by setting out to visit every single continent on Earth.

With her grandson Brad Ryan by her side, Joy's adventures have become even more epic.

Brad, a veterinarian with a love for exploration, teamed up with his grandma to turn her dream into a reality.

Their bond is one for the books.

From catching frogs in streams to climbing mountains, their journey has been extraordinary.

Their adventures have taken them from the majestic mountains of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the icy glaciers of Alaska, and now, to the stunning landscapes of Chile and the Galápagos Islands.

With plans to conquer Asia, Australia, Antarctica, and Europe next, Joy and Brad are showing the world that age is just a number.

And their message is clear: adventure knows no bounds.

Take a page out of Joy Ryan's book — roll down that sand dune, embrace the unknown, and always think positive!

Feeling a bit like a human pretzel today?

Fear not! Let's stretch our bodies out.

Take a moment to breathe in deeply, let it out slowly, and stretch those limbs like you're reaching for the last slice of pizza!

Feel the tension melt away as you stretch towards the sky or touch your toes (or at least try to, no pressure!).

So, roll out that yoga mat or just find a cozy spot, and let's get flexy!

Remember, it's not about being the bendiest bean in the bunch, it's about treating your body right and giving yourself some love.

- Thank you for reading Grateful Gazette. Remember to breathe deeply to bring your mind back to your body 💜

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