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Canada to Face Australia in Montreal Soccer Showdown

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Canada Hosts Australia in Montreal Soccer Friendly

Canada will reignite its connection with Montreal soccer fans this fall as the men’s national soccer team welcomes Australia for a thrilling international friendly. The match, scheduled for October 10 at Stade Saputo, marks the team’s first appearance in Montreal since 2017, bringing high-stakes excitement to local fans ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

A Long-Awaited Homecoming

The last time Canada played in Montreal, they defeated Curaçao 2-1—an emotional game where star player Alphonso Davies made his international debut. Now, with the countdown to the 2026 World Cup ticking, Canada Soccer is using this moment to reconnect with its roots.

Coach Jesse Marsch expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming game:
“Connecting the people’s team with the Canadian community is one of our main priorities as we build excitement ahead of our home FIFA World Cup in 2026.”

Why This Match Matters

Canada currently sits 30th in FIFA’s world rankings, while Australia ranks 26th, making this match a competitive and revealing test. The Canadian men’s squad holds a 3-1-5 record against the Socceroos, with their last encounter highlighting tactical battles and world-class athleticism.

This match isn’t just about bragging rights—it’s part of a larger strategy to prepare for 2026. Canada will host 13 matches during the World Cup: seven in Vancouver and six in Toronto.

A Packed Fall Calendar

The October 10 match is just one of many challenges lined up for Team Canada. Four days later, they face world No. 14 Colombia in New Jersey. In September, they’ll head to Europe for friendlies against Romania (Sept. 5) and Wales (Sept. 9).

These matchups aim to sharpen the team’s form and strategy ahead of the biggest tournament in Canadian soccer history.

What’s Next for Montreal?

Montreal won’t just host the October friendly—it will also serve as the training and sendoff location for Canada’s 2026 campaign. A final friendly against an as-yet-undetermined team will wrap up preparations ahead of the June 11 tournament kickoff.

Stay tuned to Maple Wire for all the latest on Canada soccer and World Cup 2026 developments.

AI Helps Couple Conceive After 18 Years of Infertility

After 18 years of infertility, a couple is expecting a baby thanks to AI-powered STAR method that finds hidden sperm in rare male infertility cases.

Breakthrough After Years of Heartache

After nearly two decades of failed fertility treatments, a couple is finally expecting their first child—thanks to artificial intelligence. The pregnancy marks the first successful use of a new AI-based method to overcome a rare male infertility condition known as azoospermia, where no sperm are detectable in semen.

Innovative Technology Used at Columbia

The couple turned to Columbia University Fertility Center in New York, where Dr. Zev Williams and his team developed the STAR method—short for Sperm Tracking and Recovery. The AI system scans semen samples using a high-powered microscope, capturing over 8 million images in an hour to identify even the most elusive sperm cells.

How the System Works

The STAR system connects to a microscope via a high-speed camera and identifies viable sperm—sometimes only two or three in a sample. It then isolates each one into a droplet of fluid, making them available for in vitro fertilization (IVF). In this case, the AI located three hidden sperm, which led to a successful fertilization and pregnancy. The baby is due in December 2025.

Minimal Side Effects, Major Hope

Unlike other procedures that involve harsh chemicals or lasers, the STAR method is non-invasive. “It’s like finding a needle in thousands of haystacks—without damaging it,” said Williams. Side effects are rare, and the AI method amplifies human expertise rather than replacing it.

A Game-Changer in Male Fertility

Azoospermia affects up to 10% of infertile men, yet it often goes undiagnosed because traditional tests can’t detect hidden sperm. Dr. Williams said that even after two days of manual examination, embryologists found nothing—yet the STAR system located 44 sperm in one sample within an hour.

Broader Impacts Across Fertility Care

Experts in the fertility field say AI is transforming how reproductive medicine is practiced. From assessing egg quality to embryo selection, AI tools are enhancing accuracy and personalization in IVF treatments. “AI is helping us see what our eyes can’t,” said Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh, a California-based reproductive endocrinologist.

Questions of Validation and Access

Despite its promise, some experts urge caution. Dr. Gianpiero Palermo of Weill Cornell Medicine—who pioneered sperm injection into eggs—said the method still needs more validation. He also cautioned that some men simply may not have any viable sperm, regardless of how advanced the search technology is.

The Road Ahead

Currently available only at Columbia, the STAR method costs under $3,000 and may soon be made available to other fertility clinics through published research. “Infertility is an ancient challenge,” said Williams, “and now we’re using the most advanced tools to overcome it.”

For the couple who had nearly given up hope, the breakthrough is life-changing. “I still can’t believe I’m pregnant,” the wife said. “Every scan is a miracle.”

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Gene Therapy Cuts Fabry Treatment Cost, Shows Promise

Early Canadian study shows gene therapy for Fabry disease may reduce $300K annual costs, offering long-term benefits and fewer side effects for rare condition.

Promising Results in Halifax-Based Study

A Halifax-led research team studying gene therapy for Fabry disease has reported early success, with results showing significant health improvement and cost savings. The experimental treatment has helped five male patients reduce or eliminate the need for costly enzyme-replacement therapy, which typically costs around $300,000 per person per year.

Long-Term Savings for Public Health

Dr. Michael West, a kidney specialist at Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre and professor at Dalhousie University, says the study’s costs have totaled $4 million, while it has already saved $3.7 million in treatment expenses. The project is funded largely by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. “The early results are promising—not only clinically but economically,” West said.

How the Therapy Works

The therapy involves extracting stem cells from a patient’s bone marrow and inserting a healthy version of the faulty gene that causes Fabry disease. Once reintroduced into the body, these cells start producing the missing enzyme. The study, published in The Journal of Clinical and Translational Medicine, noted no major Fabry-related health events such as heart attacks or kidney failure over five years.

Side Effects and Safety

Unlike other gene therapies that have resulted in severe side effects or even cancer, this study reported only two non-life-threatening complications. Both were linked to chemotherapy drugs used to prepare the bone marrow, not the gene therapy itself. “Overall, the treatment has been well tolerated,” West confirmed.

Impact on Patients’ Lives

Fabry disease affects the body’s ability to produce a crucial enzyme, leading to symptoms such as chronic fatigue, pain, and organ damage. Traditional treatments require bi-weekly, two-hour enzyme infusions, creating a long-term burden on patients. With gene therapy, many of those burdens may be lifted if ongoing trials prove successful.

A Canadian Genetic Legacy

Around 540 Canadians are known to live with Fabry disease, with about 100 patients in Nova Scotia alone. Dr. West says the genetic mutation likely traces back to a French woman who immigrated to Lunenburg, N.S., centuries ago. The same mutation has been found in patients across Ontario, B.C., the U.S., and the U.K., all believed to be her descendants.

What Comes Next

While these early results are encouraging, the treatment must go through larger-scale trials before becoming standard care. A follow-up study with 25–30 patients, including women, is now in development. West also suggests that public health agencies could consider owning the therapy models for rare inherited diseases, helping ensure global access while recovering costs through licensing.

“Given the clinical impact and the financial toll of current therapies, this approach is worth pursuing,” West said.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire. 

Carney’s Fast-Track Projects Law Passes, Sparks Debate

Canada passes Bill C‑5 to fast-track major projects. PM Mark Carney says “the real work begins” amid debate over environmental protections and Indigenous rights.

Landmark Legislation Clears Parliament

Canada’s Parliament passed Bill C-5, the much-anticipated infrastructure law championed by Prime Minister Mark Carney, just before the summer recess. Framed as a national urgency measure, the bill allows the federal cabinet to approve projects of “national interest,” bypassing conventional environmental reviews and federal permitting laws.

What the Bill Enables

The second half of the bill, known as the Building Canada Act, gives the cabinet sweeping authority to designate and expedite major infrastructure projects. This move, Carney insists, is critical to shielding Canadian industries—especially steel, auto, and natural resources—from economic threats posed by a potential return of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Summer Planning Underway

While no projects have yet been officially named, Crown and Indigenous Relations Minister Rebecca Alty confirmed that ministerial consultations with provinces, territories, and Indigenous groups are taking place over the summer. Carney, speaking after the bill’s passage, said, “The real work begins now.”

Pushback from Critics

Despite support from both Liberal and Conservative MPs, Bill C‑5 faces sharp criticism from environmentalists and Indigenous leaders. Critics argue it weakens protections, bypasses public consultation, and undermines constitutional rights. Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak criticized the government for pushing the bill through while many communities were dealing with wildfires.

Industry Voices Call for Speed

Policy experts say Canada’s sluggish project pipeline has long hampered growth. Jay Khosla, former senior official at Natural Resources Canada, said Canada is stuck in “the slow lane” due to a bloated regulatory process. He urged the federal cabinet to promptly release a list of approved projects and eliminate red tape to keep up the momentum.

Indigenous Projects in the Spotlight

Not all Indigenous voices oppose development. One major project—the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link—is led by the Inuit-owned Nukik Corporation. It seeks to connect remote Nunavut communities to Manitoba’s power grid and broadband network. CEO Anne-Raphaëlle Audouin said, “We’re ready to go. We’ve been ready for years.”

What Comes Next

Carney will begin hosting project summits in Ottawa starting July 17 with First Nations leaders, in what he calls “the first step” in identifying top-priority builds. Experts and stakeholders now await the release of a national project list and clarity on how rights, risks, and results will be balanced going forward.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire. 

Army Probes Soldiers in ‘Abhorrent’ Facebook Scandal

Canadian Army investigates members linked to a Facebook group sharing racist and hateful content. Military police reopen probe to assess serious misconduct.

Army Probes Soldiers in ‘Abhorrent’ Facebook Scandal

Command Responds to Disturbing Online Content

The Canadian Army is investigating several members allegedly involved in sharing racist, misogynistic, homophobic, and antisemitic content through a private Facebook group titled “Blue Hackle Mafia.” Lieutenant-General Mike Wright, Commander of the Canadian Army, condemned the group’s activity as “abhorrent” and ordered immediate disengagement by any active personnel involved.

Group Activity Raises Serious Concerns

The Facebook group reportedly contained offensive posts and imagery, triggering backlash from military leadership. Lt.-Gen. Wright stated he was informed about the alleged misconduct on June 25, although reports had been escalating up the chain of command since December. In a message to all ranks, Wright expressed disgust and reaffirmed the Army’s zero-tolerance stance on hate-fueled extremism within its ranks.

Military Police Launch Disciplinary Investigation

The Canadian Forces Provost Marshal confirmed that military police in Ottawa initially launched an investigation, which has since been handed to the relevant Army unit for a disciplinary probe. This process is intended to determine whether a serious offence was committed. The investigation was formally reopened on June 27. Authorities have withheld further details to protect the investigation’s integrity.

Identity of Group Members Unclear

Details about the “Blue Hackle Mafia” group remain scarce, including how many serving Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members were involved. The name “Hackle” may reference the decorative plume worn by some infantry regiments, but its specific meaning here is unverified.

Broader Extremism Issues in the Ranks

This incident has reignited concerns about extremism within the CAF. A 2022 advisory panel report highlighted a growing presence of hate-aligned members and criticized internal mechanisms for failing to detect extremist affiliations. Earlier watchdog and intelligence reports also warned that white nationalist groups actively recruit individuals with military backgrounds or encourage members to enlist to gain tactical knowledge.

History of Extremist Ties in CAF

The military has faced past controversies involving members with extremist connections. These include the 2021 sentencing of Patrik Mathews, a former Manitoba reservist involved in a neo-Nazi plot in the U.S., and revelations about B.C. reservist Erik Myggland, who continued serving despite counterintelligence concerns.

Army’s Message: Zero Tolerance for Hate

Lt.-Gen. Wright’s directive signals a hardline approach amid growing pressure for institutional reform. “There is no place for hate in our ranks,” his message emphasized. The Army aims to restore public trust while rooting out harmful ideologies threatening cohesion and discipline.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

CHS Cases Surge in Canada, Prompt Warning Calls

ER visits for cannabis hyperemesis syndrome in Canada rose 13-fold, prompting a class action and growing calls for clearer CHS warnings on cannabis products.

Sharp Rise in Severe Vomiting Cases

Emergency‑department data show 12,866 visits for cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) in Ontario between 2014 and 2021—a 13‑fold jump that accelerated after retail expansion in 2020.

Daily Smoker’s Ordeal Illustrates Toll

Operations trainer Brittany Ramsey, 35, says a decade of once‑daily smoking left her hospitalised 29 times with relentless vomiting that only hot showers eased. Her three‑year search for answers ended with a CHS diagnosis in 2024, underscoring how easily the syndrome is missed.

Potency and Retail Expansion Under Scrutiny

Researchers link the surge to today’s far stronger products—average THC content has climbed from 3 % in the 1980s to about 15 %, with some dried strains hitting 30 % and concentrates reaching 90 %. Greater store access since 2020 likely magnified exposure.

Class Action Targets Aurora Cannabis

On 14 May 2025 the Ontario Superior Court certified a national lawsuit alleging Aurora Cannabis failed to warn consumers about CHS risks. The case could force industry‑wide label changes if successful, lawyers say.

Experts Press for Better Warnings

Western University epidemiologist Jamie Seabrook notes an “explosion” of CHS presentations in the past decade and urges schools, hospitals and public‑health campaigns to flag the danger so users can make informed choices.

Health Canada already mandates labels on psychosis and dependence. Advocates want CHS added, along with frontline‑clinician training and consumer education. Federal officials have not said when—or if—rule changes will occur, but the lawsuit and mounting ER data keep the issue in the national spotlight.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire. 

Wisdom Tooth Pain Relief: Top Tips for Easy Recovery

Wisdom Tooth Woes? Here’s How to Handle Pain and Recovery

If you’re dreading wisdom tooth pain or facing surgical removal, you’re not alone. Many young adults, like Liv Silver from St. John’s, NL, have tackled this dental milestone—and lived to smile about it. With the right advice, you can make the process smoother and less stressful.

Why Timing Matters: When to Remove Wisdom Teeth

Wondering when to schedule your surgery? Dental expert Dr. Justin Yeoh recommends getting wisdom teeth out while you’re young. Evidence shows that people under 24, especially women, heal faster and have fewer complications. Acting early means you’ll likely avoid infections and recover more quickly. So, don’t wait until pain strikes—be proactive!

Top Tips for Wisdom Tooth Pain and Healing

After surgery, you’ll want to manage pain, swelling, and bruising. Here’s what works best:

  • Follow your dentist’s instructions: Always rinse with salt water, use any prescribed mouthwash, and take pain medications as directed.

  • Apply cold packs: Reduce swelling by gently placing ice packs on your cheeks for 15-20 minutes at a time.

  • Stick to soft foods: Choose smoothies, soups, and yogurt to avoid irritating your healing gums.

  • Rest up: Give your body time to heal by taking it easy for a few days.

  • Keep your mouth clean: Gentle rinsing helps prevent infection, but avoid vigorous swishing.

Pro Tips from Those Who’ve Been There

People who have recovered from wisdom tooth removal swear by a few extra hacks:

  • Prop up your head with pillows while sleeping to minimize swelling.

  • Avoid using straws—the suction can dislodge blood clots and slow healing.

  • Stay hydrated, but sip slowly and carefully.

Always Check with Your Dentist

Before trying any home remedies or hacks, talk to your dentist or oral surgeon. They’ll know what’s safe for your specific situation and can help you avoid complications.

The Bottom Line: Be Proactive for a Smooth Recovery

Getting your wisdom teeth out doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By timing your surgery right, following expert advice, and using smart recovery tips, you’ll be back to normal—and pain-free—in no time. Remember, when in doubt, your dental team is your best resource for a healthy, speedy recovery.

Why Outdoor Play Is the Best Prescription for Kids’ Health

The Secret Ingredient for a Healthy Childhood? Nature

When summer arrives, one question always sparks excitement: “What are your plans this summer?” For many families, the answer includes camping trips, mountain hikes, or simply playing outside. These activities do more than fill time—they help children thrive.

The Magic of Fresh Air and Petrichor

Have you ever noticed that earthy, fresh scent after rain? That’s called petrichor, and it’s just one of nature’s many gifts. Stepping outside after a shower, you breathe in geosmin from soil bacteria and oils released by plants. These small wonders remind us that nature is full of surprises, waiting to be explored.

Nature-Deficit Disorder: Why Kids Need the Outdoors

A few years ago, experts coined the term “nature-deficit disorder” to describe what happens when children miss out on time in nature. The benefits of outdoor play are huge:

  • Better physical fitness

  • Improved motor skills

  • Reduced stress and anxiety

  • Sharper focus and attention

  • Happier moods

  • Stronger self-esteem

  • Deeper sleep

  • Lower risk of nearsightedness

Letting kids get their hands dirty—digging in soil, making mud pies—does more than spark joy. It actually helps build a healthier gut and a stronger immune system. According to the hygiene hypothesis, children who avoid dirt may face more allergies later in life.

Unplugging: Why It’s Worth the Effort

Today’s kids often prefer indoor play “because that’s where all the electrical outlets are.” Yet, memories of mud, grass, and sunshine last a lifetime. Even on chilly or rainy days, embracing the outdoors pays off. Parents who lead by example and tailor activities to their child’s personality find that outdoor time becomes a highlight, not a chore.

For children with ADHD or autism, supervised time in nature can bring noticeable improvements in mood and well-being. Consistency may be tough, but the rewards are real.

Making Outdoor Play a Family Tradition

Southern Alberta’s natural beauty is world-famous, and local parks like Fish Creek Park offer endless opportunities for adventure. Many families camp or hike because it’s a tradition passed down from grandparents. As Wendell Berry wisely said, “When going back makes sense, you are going forward.” By reconnecting with nature, families build healthy habits for generations.

Tips for Parents: Getting Kids Outside

  • Be a role model: Show enthusiasm for outdoor activities.

  • Make it fun: Choose adventures that match your child’s interests.

  • Embrace all weather: Dress for the conditions and enjoy every season.

  • Start small: Even a walk in a local park counts.

  • Stay curious: Explore new places and learn about nature together.

For more inspiration, check out Richard Louv’s blog, which is packed with ideas for families eager to unplug and reconnect with the outdoors.

A healthy childhood starts with a step outside. This summer, let nature be your family’s playground.

How Climate Change Fuels Canada’s Wildfire Crisis

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Climate Change: The Real Driver Behind Canada’s Wildfires

Every summer, as thick smoke clouds Canadian skies, the same question pops up: What’s causing all these wildfires? While many point fingers at arson or careless campers, the real culprit is hiding in plain sight—climate change is turning small sparks into raging infernos.

Ignition Is Only the Beginning

Sure, wildfires can start in many ways. Lightning, campfires, power lines, and sometimes even arson can all light the first flame. However, the way a fire starts is just one piece of the puzzle. What really matters is what happens next.

When landscapes are bone-dry, temperatures soar, and winds whip through the trees, even a tiny spark can unleash chaos. These extreme conditions, scientists confirm, are becoming more common as our planet warms.

Climate Change Sets the Stage for Disaster

Canada’s wildfire seasons are lasting longer and burning hotter than ever. Earlier snowmelt, stubborn droughts, and record-breaking heat waves are making forests more flammable. In fact, climate studies have directly linked these changes to human-driven greenhouse gas emissions.

Last year, Canada saw its worst wildfire season ever—over 18 million hectares burned, six times the usual average. And this year, vast areas across Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories are already ablaze. If trends continue, 2025 could become the second-worst season on record.

The Numbers Tell the True Story

It’s easy to blame “human-caused” fires, but that’s a broad category. It includes everything from campfires and farm equipment to arson, which is actually rare. In reality, lightning-triggered fires are responsible for most of the land burned—93% in 2023 alone. Meanwhile, climate change is causing more lightning strikes, while human-caused fires have actually decreased since 1980.

Solutions: Beyond Blame

Wildfires will always be a part of Canada’s landscape. However, climate change is making them more frequent and severe. To fight back, we need to:

  • Invest in wildfire prevention

  • Modernize forest management

  • Strengthen emergency response

  • Protect at-risk communities

Most importantly, we must cut emissions. Slowing global warming is the only way to truly reduce wildfire risk.

Don’t Let Misinformation Distract Us

Every summer, myths about wildfire causes spread online, distracting from real solutions. Even world leaders sometimes miss the mark—recent G7 wildfire talks didn’t even mention climate change.

The message is clear: If we focus only on how fires start and ignore why they’re getting worse, we’ll never get ahead of the problem. It’s time to tackle the root cause and protect our communities for the future.

Kareem Allam Forms Vancouver Liberals to Run in 2026

Ex-ABC strategist Kareem Allam launches Vancouver Liberals, plans 2026 mayoral run to challenge Ken Sim and reshape city’s political direction.

Former ABC Insider Launches New Municipal Party

Kareem Allam, once a top political strategist for Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim and former chief of staff, has launched a new municipal political party named the Vancouver Liberals. The party, officially registered with Elections BC on Thursday, will contest the city’s 2026 municipal election.

Mayoral Candidacy Confirmed for 2026

Allam has confirmed he will run for mayor under the Vancouver Liberals banner in the October 2026 election. Known for leading ABC Vancouver’s 2022 campaign victory, Allam now positions himself as a challenger to the mayor he once advised. His departure from the ABC administration came just 89 days into his tenure as Sim’s chief of staff.

Party Aims for Broad Political Appeal

The Vancouver Liberals, according to Allam, are designed to attract voters across the political spectrum. “We want the best and brightest, whether they are centre, left, or centre-right,” he said. The party’s logo—a stylized “V” and “L” with Anna’s hummingbird, Vancouver’s official bird—symbolizes inclusivity and political diversity through red, green, and blue hues.

Platform Focus: Affordability, Youth Retention

Allam emphasized the party’s core mission: addressing Vancouver’s declining youth population and cost of living. “Young people are leaving Vancouver in droves,” he said, noting the contrast between Vancouver’s shrinking school enrolment and growth in cities like Surrey. His proposed solutions include cutting red tape, expediting homebuilding approvals, expanding community centre hours, and investing in parks and libraries.

Departure from ABC and Public Criticism

Since leaving ABC Vancouver in early 2023, Allam has emerged as one of its most vocal critics. He has opposed several policy moves under Sim’s leadership, including the abolition of the park board, the city’s handling of Hastings encampments, and the actions of Vancouver Police’s Project Barrage.

Legal Dispute with Mayor Sim

In May, Sim filed a defamation lawsuit against Allam and businessman Alex G. Tsakumis over alleged comments involving a past incident. This week, Allam filed a legal response denying the allegations and requesting the lawsuit’s dismissal. He maintains that the lawsuit is unrelated to his political ambitions. “I’m not running for any other reason than I think I can do a better job,” he stated.

Full Slate Planned for City Governance

Beyond the mayoral race, the Vancouver Liberals will run a full slate of candidates for city council, the park board, and the school board. Allam also signaled openness to former ABC officials joining his team, suggesting a broader realignment ahead of the 2026 election.

Outlook: A New Political Force in Vancouver

Allam’s entry sets the stage for a competitive municipal race in 2026, potentially reshaping Vancouver’s political landscape. With a focus on fiscal responsibility, urban livability, and youth retention, the Vancouver Liberals are positioning themselves as a centrist alternative to the current administration.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.

Kiran Deol Brings Unfiltered Comedy and Zombie Chaos to Vancouver

Kiran Deol Headlines Indian Summer Festival with Comedy and Zombies

If you’re craving a night packed with laughter, wild stories, and a hint of zombie mayhem, Kiran Deol’s upcoming show at the Indian Summer Festival is your golden ticket. The American Punjabi comedian, writer, and filmmaker is set to shake up the Vancouver Playhouse on July 8, and she’s bringing her signature blend of dark comedy and real-life absurdity.

Why You Can’t Stream “Joysuck” in Canada—Yet

Fans north of the border have been clamoring to watch Deol’s latest comedy special, “Joysuck.” So, what’s the holdup? According to Deol, it all comes down to subtitles. “I’m so disappointed that it’s not on Prime there,” she says, explaining that French subtitles are required before the show can hit Canadian screens. The wait continues, but Deol promises plenty of laughs in person.

Surviving a Zombie Apocalypse—Comedian Style

Deol’s not just making waves in standup. She stars in the upcoming film “Didn’t Die,” playing a podcaster navigating a zombie apocalypse. Does she think a zombie outbreak would kill the joy? “One thousand per cent,” she quips. Still, she finds silver linings: more time for introspection and less competition in the podcast world. Even in a world overrun by zombies, Deol finds a way to laugh.

From Harvard to Hilarious

You might expect a Harvard English grad to take a more traditional path, but Deol has always zigged where others zag. After making documentary films, she dove headfirst into standup. Would she change anything? “Honestly, I hope that this call ends with us building a time machine so I can go back and pivot,” she jokes. But her unique journey is what makes her comedy so relatable—and so unpredictable.

Vancouver: A City Close to Her Heart

Deol’s last visit to Vancouver left a lasting impression. She raves about the city’s beauty, its international vibe, and the special connection she feels with its Punjabi community. “When you say ‘Punjabi’ in the act, there’s a different level of recognition that’s pretty special,” she says. She’s been eager to return ever since, and this festival is her chance.

Expect the Unexpected: Comedy Born from Chaos

What’s on tap for her new show? Deol teases a story that’s as dark as it is hilarious—getting hit in the face with a bottle outside a wine bar. “It sounds very dark, and I guess technically is pretty dark. But there were so many moments where you just wish there was another fly on the wall,” she shares. Her comedy always finds the joy in the chaos, and this show is no exception.

Don’t Miss Out—Tickets Are Going Fast

Kiran Deol’s live show promises to be a night of sharp wit, wild tales, and plenty of surprises. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her comedy, you’ll leave with sore cheeks from laughing—and maybe a new perspective on surviving the unexpected.

Event Details:

  • When: July 8, 7 p.m.

  • Where: Vancouver Playhouse, 600 Hamilton St.

  • Tickets: $54 to $75 at showpass.com

Get ready for a night where anything can happen—and probably will.

Surrey Hospitals Foundation Named City’s Health Partner

Surrey Hospitals Foundation named official health-care partner for Surrey, B.C., set to lead fundraising for critical projects including new Cloverdale hospital.

Surrey Foundation Gets Official Recognition

The Surrey Hospitals Foundation (SHF) has been formally recognized as the designated health-care foundation for the City of Surrey. This announcement was made on July 3 at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) in Cloverdale, just steps away from the construction site of the city’s long-awaited new hospital.

Government and Fraser Health Align With SHF

B.C. Minister of Health Josie Osborne, alongside Fraser Health representatives, confirmed the designation during the KPU event. The move solidifies SHF’s role as the city’s primary fundraising body for current and future health-care infrastructure. “This formal recognition reflects the important role Surrey Hospitals Foundation has played—and will continue to play—in supporting high-quality, accessible health care,” Osborne stated.

Driving Critical Investments in Surrey’s Health System

Over the past year alone, SHF has raised over $10 million for local health-care advancements. These include $5.2 million for the Jim Pattison Outpatient Care and Surgery Centre and $1.7 million for integrated operating room technology. Additionally, SHF has funded the development of a robotics program at Surrey Memorial Hospital to treat complex head, neck, and chest injuries.

Osborne emphasized that these contributions directly enhance patient care and strengthen the overall health system in the rapidly growing south Fraser region.

Future Projects and Medical School Plans

The foundation’s designation positions it at the helm of fundraising for upcoming initiatives including:

  • The new Cloverdale hospital
  • An acute care tower at Surrey Memorial Hospital
  • C.’s first new medical school in 55 years, set to open temporarily in Whalley by September 2026, with plans for a permanent campus later

“These projects are a testament to our shared commitment to building a robust and modern health-care system for the people of Surrey,” Osborne said.

Local MLA Raises Concerns

Surrey-Cloverdale MLA Elenore Sturko, who attended the announcement, expressed mixed feelings. While praising SHF’s efforts and donor generosity, she voiced disappointment that no new government services were announced. “It’s disappointing knowing the urgent needs that we have here in Surrey,” she said, highlighting the billion-dollar budget overrun and delays plaguing the Cloverdale hospital project.

Sturko also stressed the need for enhanced hospital safety measures for health-care workers, calling it a priority for her party.

A Legacy of Community-Led Health Care

With more than $210 million contributed over 32 years, SHF remains the largest non-government health-care funder in Surrey. This new designation not only acknowledges its longstanding impact but also entrusts it with shaping the city’s future in health care.

As Surrey continues to expand, this partnership underscores the community’s growing role in funding and supporting essential health services.

For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.