Seventy-eight members from auxiliaries in Balcarres, Colgate, Estevan, Fillmore, Lampman, Moosomin, Oxbow, Percival, Radville, Regina Pasqua, Regina General, Wolseley and Wawota represented District No. 5 at the Saskatchewan Health Care Auxiliary Association's annual meeting in St. Joseph's Hospital auditorium in Estevan on April 22.

After registration and coffee, councillor Jackie Rutledge called the meeting to order and turned it over to host auxiliary president Marlene Hayward.

Guest speaker Mary Anne Veroba gave an informative and lively discussion on osteoporosis, known as the Silent Thief since it sometimes occurs without pain. This ailment affects one out of 37 Canadians and one of four women. It predominately affects the wrist, legs and spine.

Mary Anne spoke about the causes, risk factors, testing and treatment for this ailment.

A memorial service for the deceased of the district was held under the leadership of the Lampman auxiliary.

After dinner, Blair Wrbleski sang, accompanied by Myrna McCleary on the piano. The second part of the entertainment was singing and guitar playing by Dwight Thompson.

A volunteer appreciation service followed in the hospital chapel.

During the business meeting, President Joyce Nash gave a report on her schedule and the news that two new auxiliaries, Melfort and Central Butte, have joined SHAA.

The councillor report came from Jackie Rutledge. She stressed that formed sent to the auxiliaries should be filled out clearly and returned on time. The need for a co-councillor was again reviewed. This position has been filled by Alice Schaffor, Regina.

Representatives from 13 auxiliaries gave reports.

The 2005 district meeting will be hosted by the Wolseley auxiliary.