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How a Once Forgotten Building Became a Safe Haven For Indigenous Youth
The Noble Court building in Winnipeg was damaged by fire in 2016. It's now been transformed into a home for Indigenous youth. The project aims to reduce homelessness in the Indigenous community. The building can house up to 24 young people in 18 apartments. It also has a cultural hub where residents can access resources.
Score (96)
She Was Diagnosed With Brain Cancer on Her 11th Birthday. Now, Millie Is Helping Others
Millie Butler turned 11 on the same day doctors told her she had an aggressive brain tumor. The diagnosis, which came last September in England, was for primary intracranial sarcoma — a rare and fast-growing cancer that affects the largest part of the brain. According to the National Institutes of Health, the tumor is typically found in the supratentorial forebrain and requires intensive treatment. Since that day, Millie's grandparents, Sue and Brian from Cambridgeshire, have taken the lead in updating the public on her condition through a GoFundMe page set up to support her care. “Millie has now got to have a year of treatment: chemotherapy, radiotherapy and possibly proton therapy,” they wrote. “This is to make sure that the cancer does not come back.” The journey hasn't been easy. In their words, the treatment will make Millie “very ill,” and she was “very upset” to learn she’d lose her hair. But despite everything, they said their granddaughter "is being extremely brave and has agreed to having ... tests for research purposes to help other people.” That generosity of spirit — even in the middle of her own fight — is what’s been resonating with people. Support for Millie has come not just in the form of donations. Comments, shares, and messages have poured in. One local newspaper, the Cambs Times, reported that part of the GoFundMe proceeds may also help fulfill a dream for Millie: visiting a close friend in New Zealand once her treatment is over. There are signs the treatment is starting to work. In a post from November 29, Sue said Millie had finished her first round of chemo and had handled it “extremely well.” Then on December 18, she shared a more personal update: “Millie is about to start her second round of chemo. She's had her head shaved now and is continuing to be the bravest, courageous little girl that we all love.” She ended the post with a plea: “Please keep sharing Millie’s story to help raise awareness.” On January 4, Sue shared that Millie had experienced a two-week delay in treatment due to low blood counts — but that her levels had recovered just in time for the next round of chemotherapy. Then came a bit of good news. A brain scan on January 20 showed that the tumor had shrunk. The most recent update, from January 28, brought another important development: Millie has been approved for proton therapy, a newer and more targeted form of radiation. The Mayo Clinic notes that proton therapy uses energy from positively charged particles and has shown promise in treating several types of cancer. It’s also believed to reduce side effects compared to traditional radiation, especially in young patients. Millie is scheduled to begin a six-week course of the therapy in March. Until then, her family says she’ll continue her chemotherapy regimen — and continue to inspire others. “Millie’s bravery is astounding,” one donor commented. “She’s already making a difference.”
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Researchers Used CO₂ to Jumpstart the Brain’s ‘Sewage System’ — It Could Fight Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
A new study is exploring an unusual way to help the brain clean itself: making people breathe in more carbon dioxide. The experimental approach, called intermittent hypercapnia, involves giving participants short bursts of CO₂-rich air. It might sound uncomfortable, but early results suggest it helps boost the brain’s waste-clearing system — a key process that could play a role in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The study, published in NPJ Parkinson’s and led by neuroscientists from the University of New Mexico and The Mind Research Network, builds on recent discoveries about the glymphatic system — the brain’s own “sewage” network that flushes out toxins during sleep. "We brainstormed how we could boost this response," said neuropsychologist Sephira Ryman from UNM. "That is when we realized that we could reproduce, in the awake state, the glymphatic clearing response usually linked to deep sleep using intermittent CO₂." In the trials, 63 older adults — including 30 people with Parkinson’s disease — were given cycles of CO₂-rich air for 35 seconds at a time, followed by normal air. Brain scans during this process showed changes in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, the liquid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord and supports the glymphatic system. That’s important because cerebrospinal fluid movement is how the brain clears out potentially harmful waste, including misfolded proteins like amyloid-beta and alpha-synuclein. These proteins are linked to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, though scientists still debate whether they're a cause or a symptom of disease progression. In a smaller group of 10 people, researchers ran blood tests after several 10-minute CO₂ sessions. They found higher levels of waste proteins in the blood — a sign those toxins had been flushed out of the brain. One participant, who showed signs of Alzheimer’s disease, had a marked increase in amyloid-beta levels in their blood after the session. That raised an eyebrow for researchers, who now believe this method may help promote clearance of proteins implicated in both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Still, a lot remains unknown. It’s not clear how long these effects last, or if they meaningfully change the course of a disease. Scientists also haven’t determined whether the misfolded proteins are drivers of neurodegeneration or simply a byproduct. Even so, the early evidence is promising. CO₂ appears to work by causing blood vessels in the brain to expand and contract, which might help push cerebrospinal fluid along — and with it, the toxins it carries away. That’s especially relevant for people with Parkinson’s, who often have disrupted sleep and impaired blood flow in the brain, both of which hinder the glymphatic system’s ability to function. The team is now looking into whether breathing-based practices like yoga, tai chi, and qigong — which emphasize deep abdominal breathing — might produce similar effects on CO₂ levels and brain clearance. If they do, it could open the door to low-cost, non-invasive techniques to support brain health in aging populations. For now, the idea that a few short puffs of CO₂ could give the brain’s cleanup crew a boost is still in its early stages — but it’s a development researchers will be watching closely.
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Score (81)
This Cobbler Lost His Thumb at Work — So Doctors Replaced It With His Toe
David Lee was fixing the heel of a shoe when his life changed in an instant. The cobbler from Sutton-in-Ashfield, England, accidentally sliced off his right thumb in a workplace accident in 2019. “I didn't realize how bad it was, and then my thumb just dropped to the floor,” he told the BBC. “I was like, ‘Right, that’s gone.’” He was rushed to King’s Mill Hospital, then referred to specialists at the Pulvertaft Hand Centre at Royal Derby Hospital. There, he was given several options. The one he chose was drastic but effective: surgeons would remove his right big toe and use it to replace his missing thumb. Now, more than five years later, Lee is back at work and says his life is more or less the same. With one exception. “My thumb is a big toe, so I need a larger glove,” he said. Lee shared his story during a recent interview on BBC Radio Derby, where he also reunited with the surgeon who performed the operation, Jill Arrowsmith. She spoke about how hand injuries often change more than just someone’s physical abilities. “They’re how you make your living, they’re how you interact with other people, they’re how you show emotions,” Arrowsmith said. “Then when you have an injury and suddenly can’t do that, you lose everything. It’s a huge impact.” The recovery wasn’t easy. Lee had to rely on his non-dominant hand while healing and re-learn basic tasks like using scissors and holding a spoon. “Trying to just pick up a spoon and put coffee and sugar in a cup with your left hand when you’re not used to it was so challenging,” he said. “There was no power and no grip in the hand because obviously I’d had this major surgery and internally, your muscles have been ripped apart.” Months of physical therapy followed as he worked to regain strength and coordination. There were also moments of self-consciousness. “I’ve got to the stage where, you know what? It’s a part of me and I just don’t care,” he said. The only lasting issue? His right foot still gets tired and tender after long days. “It’s kind of something that I’ve got to put up with and live with,” he added. Still, Lee is grateful. Looking at his hand now, he said, “You wouldn’t know.”
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Rare Leopard Cub Zeya Makes First Public Appearance
A UK zoo has introduced visitors to Zeya, a rare Amur leopard cub born last autumn and now stepping into public view for the first time. Dartmoor Zoo said the female cub, born on 29 September to breeding pair Freddo and Lena, has moved into the main leopard habitat after routine vet checks and vaccinations. Staff moved Zeya and her mother into the on-show enclosure on Monday, and the zoo said both animals are healthy and curious as they explore their new surroundings. For visitors, it is the first proper chance to see Zeya since her birth. The zoo is also urging people to keep noise down while she settles in. “She is still getting used to her new home, so the zoo is asking visitors to be calm and quiet to help her feel safe,” it said. The zoo chose Zeya’s name from the River Zeya in the Amur region of eastern Russia, where the species lives in the wild. Dartmoor Zoo said Zeya is thought to be one of only 15 Amur leopards born in the world in 2025, a figure that underlines how closely conservation groups monitor every new cub. Chief executive David Gibson described the move into the main enclosure as a milestone for keepers and visitors alike. “Moving mum Lena and cub Zeya into the main Amur leopard enclosure here at Dartmoor Zoo is a momentous occasion,” he said. “Our keepers have had the privilege of watching this incredibly important young leopard grow up and explore the world around her over the last few months, but now our visitors will have the chance to share in this enjoyment and see how Zeya develops the skills and ability she will need in years to come,” Gibson added. The zoo’s focus now shifts to helping Zeya adapt to a bigger space and to regular visitor presence. Zoos often take a cautious approach when young big cats first go on show, gradually building their confidence in an environment that includes new sights, sounds, and routines. Dartmoor Zoo said Zeya has only recently begun spending time in the on-show habitat, which means her behaviour may change from day to day as she tests her surroundings and stays close to her mother. Staff will also keep a close watch on how Lena responds, as mothers can become protective when conditions shift. Amur leopards are the rarest big cats on the planet, Dartmoor Zoo said, with only about 120 left in the wild. The zoo added that the population has grown slightly in recent years because of stronger legal protection in Russia and China, but the species remains critically endangered. For many conservation programmes, births in zoos serve as a small but important buffer for a species with such low numbers. Each cub also offers a chance to educate visitors about the pressures wild Amur leopards still face, and why protecting habitat and cracking down on illegal hunting matter. For now, Zeya’s first weeks in public view will look simple: exploring, playing, and learning how to move through her space, with Lena close by. If visitors follow the zoo’s request for calm and quiet, they may also get to watch the early signs of independence that keepers will be tracking as she grows.
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Here's Some Good News We’re Celebrating This Week
In Hamilton, Montana, Daniel Foley started a 24/7 taxi service after a friend died in a preventable crash. Foley said his friend, an elderly and disabled man, had been told by doctors not to drive, but ran an errand anyway and was killed in a head-on collision that also killed a 32-year-old woman. Foley, a former school bus driver, truck driver, and public bus driver with more than 12 years of experience in the Hamilton valley, decided he did not want to see it happen again. What emerged was Giddy-Up Rides, his own round-the-clock taxi service for elderly and disabled neighbours, and anyone else who needs a safe ride. Outside the United States, a different immigration story made headlines in Spain, where the government issued a decree offering hundreds of thousands of undocumented migrants a way to stay legally. The measure allows undocumented people already living in Spain to apply for temporary residency permits, and the government said it would affect “our social cohesion, well-being, and also on the economy.” The move runs against crackdowns happening in several other countries. A long-distance “peace walk” also pushed forward this week despite harsh weather. In late October, a group of 19 Buddhist monks, along with a canine companion, set off on a 3,700-kilometre trek across the United States calling for peace. Their walk is set to end with a gathering at the US Capitol, where they plan to speak about healing and unity. After they passed the halfway point in North Carolina, freezing temperatures and snow hit as a winter storm moved through the southeast. The group shared an update that framed the hardship as part of their message: “We cannot demand that life only bring us comfortable conditions.” In Europe, 10 countries agreed to accelerate offshore wind development in the North Sea through a pact aimed at building a connected network of wind farms and subsea cables. The plan is expected to deliver 100 gigawatts of offshore wind power, enough to supply 143 million homes. The agreement includes building 5 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity each year between 2031 and 2040, and more than 100 companies signed an industry declaration promising cost reductions and the creation of 91,000 jobs. Backers say the plan could attract €1 trillion in investment. There were also smaller headlines in the source material that point to change arriving through policy, business decisions, and culture. A new survey from the British Beer and Pub Association found that 86% of pubs across England now serve no- and low-alcohol beer, as interest grows in non-alcoholic options. Big brands such as Heineken and Guinness have introduced “zero point zero” products, while some newer companies focus entirely on non-alcoholic craft beers. Other mentions included Opal Lee, 99, being honoured with a new Barbie doll, California joining the WHO’s disease network after the United States withdrew, and a judge ruling that a wind farm off Martha’s Vineyard can continue construction after a federal order tried to stop it when the project was already 95% complete.
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18 Dogs Rescued from Missouri Cold, Including Pregnant Mom Who Gave Birth After Arrival
In the middle of a brutal winter storm that swept across much of the U.S., a call for help came from a rural property in Doniphan, Missouri. On the other end was a family who realized they were overwhelmed—and a team ready to act. Animal Rescue Corps (ARC), a nonprofit based just outside Nashville, Tennessee, stepped in and saved 18 dogs from snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, including a pregnant female who later gave birth to a litter of nine puppies. This wasn’t a case of abuse or cruelty, according to ARC Executive Director Tim Woodward, who’s also a finalist for CNN’s 2025 Hero of the Year. Instead, it was a case of people asking for help before things got worse. “The people living on the property recognized that the number of dogs had grown beyond what they could manage and that they could no longer properly care for the animals,” Woodward said. “These individuals also agreed to have their personal dogs spayed or neutered immediately at ARC’s expense.” The situation, ARC says, began as an effort to help a family member—someone needed temporary care for a few dogs. But as those animals reproduced unchecked, it quickly spiraled. By the time ARC arrived, several adult dogs were chained outside, and multiple litters of puppies were roaming freely. Despite the conditions, the property owners didn’t wait for tragedy. They called ARC as temperatures plummeted, prompting a swift response. Team members drove to Missouri late Thursday, met with local rescuers Friday morning, and transported seven adult dogs and 11 puppies back to their Tennessee shelter that same day, according to KFVS 12. Safe, warm, and finally off the chains, the pregnant dog gave birth shortly after arriving—nine healthy puppies, now under ARC’s care. Though ARC doesn’t handle adoptions directly, their model is built around high-impact rescue and recovery. Once animals are mentally and physically ready, ARC partners with vetted nonprofit shelters and rescue groups to find them permanent homes. This rescue was no exception. The animals will soon be on their way to the next step in their journey—out of the cold, off the chains, and toward families who can give them the care they deserve.
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Man Breaks Down in Tears While Fulfilling Special Role at Sister's Wedding After Father's Death
Guy Lawler didn’t just show up to his sister’s wedding—he stepped into their late father’s shoes. In a viral moment shared on Instagram, Guy could be seen breaking down in tears as he turned to see his sister, Demi Lawler, dressed in her wedding gown. The two embraced tightly in what they called their private “first look,” a tradition made more meaningful by the absence of their dad, Andrew Lawler, who died in 2014 at age 45. “Stepping into my dad’s role for a little sister’s wedding after he passed away from depression,” Guy wrote in onscreen text, overlaying the clip. In the caption, he added: “We made it through.” The wedding took place on the South Coast of Australia, and the video—also shared by celebrant Chelsea Lawler—struck a chord online. “She may not have her dad here to see her as a bride,” Chelsea wrote, “but she has her brother, the one who knows her heart, protects her fiercely, and carries a piece of their dad with him always.” Speaking to PEOPLE, Guy described the moment as “magic.” “Having that special moment on video means the world to me and my sister,” he said. “I’ve watched it almost every day since the wedding.” He explained that the bond they share is one where “we kind of just ‘get it’ with a single look toward each other.” That closeness, he added, has been part of his life since their father’s passing. “There has always been this weight since being a young adult of mentoring or just guiding and being there for my sisters,” Guy said. “Not a responsibility they have asked me to have, but one I have felt I need to own.” That sense of guardianship was on full display at the wedding. While their “very proactive and caring mother” and “supportive stepfather” filled other roles that day, Guy’s job was the one that might’ve gone to their dad: the emotional first look. “My sister wanted the closest thing to her dad, which is me, her brother, to fulfill that special part of the day,” he said. He also gave a speech during the celebration, which turned out to be more heartfelt than polished. What was meant to be a short three-minute toast stretched to eight as he paused through tears. Guy has since turned his personal loss into a mission. He’s the founder of The Future Self Coach, a coaching business that, according to him, was inspired by his father’s death and is designed to help others “show up for their future self, through the vessel of health and fitness.” At its core, the moment captured on video wasn’t just about a brother and sister. It was about loss, love, and the quiet, powerful ways people step up for each other when it matters most.
Score (96)
Sauna, Snow, and Stories: The Steamy West Yorkshire Book Club Making Reading Cool Again
Book lovers in West Yorkshire are turning up the heat — literally — with a book club that swaps cosy armchairs for a sauna and cold plunge. Set in the hillside above Hebden Bridge, the iglu book club has become one of the most unconventional reading groups in the UK. Each month, members strip down to swimsuits, step into a Nordic-style sauna, and dive into their latest literary discussion — followed by a bracing cold-water dip. The result? A mix of hot debate, freezing refreshment, and shared love for stories that’s quickly built a devoted following. “It’s really special,” said organiser Shekina Rose. “Going from the hot to the cold adds something that feels really good for your body and your mind.” The idea may sound extreme, but participants say the cycle of heat, cold, and conversation makes for a surprisingly immersive experience. “Sometimes we get so excited about what we’re talking about that it feels hotter than it would usually,” Rose said. One of the recent selections, The Driver’s Seat by Muriel Spark, sparked particularly passionate debate. “The conversation about that was really intense,” she added. “When you’re not talking about things like that, you’re able to be a bit more meditative.” Author and club host Rozie Kelly said the group began as “a bit of an experiment” when it launched in September. “I love books and I love saunas and I really wanted to meet some interesting people and have discussions,” she said. “The result has surpassed my expectations.” With the sauna sessions nestled in nature and often accompanied by a walk to the site, many said the club offers an unusual but welcome antidote to daily life. Book club member Jo Harris called the mix of reading and contrast therapy a perfect escape. “The whole health benefits of doing the sauna and followed by the cold plunge and then adding in a bit of book chat just makes it that bit more fun.” For Rose, the club’s rhythm has been a nudge toward better habits. “Everyone’s lives are so busy nowadays and I’m not very good at reading at home,” she admitted. “So this is forcing me to read things — and also different genres, which has been great.” The walk up to the sauna, the view, the discussions, the freezing water — it all adds up to something that’s not just about books. “It’s extremely wholesome,” she said. It’s part spa, part salon, and part hiking trail — and for those involved, it’s making reading feel less like a chore and more like a full-body reset.
Score (96)
How to Shop for Healthy Food Without Feeling Overwhelmed
Walking into a grocery store with the intention of eating healthier can feel like a good first step. But with endless aisles, loud packaging, and time pressures, it’s easy to fall back on old habits. That doesn’t mean you have to buy expensive foods, ditch entire sections of the store, or aim for perfection. According to Leslie Bonci, a registered sports dietitian and founder of Active Eating Advice, it’s about making simple, informed choices. “It comes down to understanding how grocery stores are organized, knowing which foods deliver the most nutritional value and having a flexible plan that works in real life,” she says. Start with a Plan — and a Short List Before you even walk in, it helps to know what you’re there for. Yasi Ansari, a registered dietitian and certified specialist in sports dietetics, suggests starting with a grocery list based on a few meals you know you’ll enjoy and actually eat. That kind of light planning, she says, helps keep you focused and prevents you from grabbing things that won’t support your needs later in the week. Build Around Whole Foods First Once inside the store, Ansari recommends starting at the perimeter — where produce, dairy, and meats are usually stocked — and focusing on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts, and healthy fats. “Start in the produce section and build your cart around whole foods,” she says. Fresh produce is great, but it’s not the only option. Apples, pears, citrus fruits, onions, and potatoes tend to last longer. Frozen fruits and vegetables are equally nutritious and often cheaper. Bonci says they’re also great for avoiding food waste on busy weeks — especially in meals like stir-fries, soups, and smoothies. She also suggests looking for options that save time, like pre-chopped vegetables or bagged salads. “Pre-chopped vegetables and bagged salad mixes can be great time-savers,” she says. Don’t Skip the Protein Eggs, tofu, chicken, yogurt, peanut butter, lentils, and ground turkey are all practical, affordable protein staples that can be used in different ways throughout the week. Bonci says canned beans and tuna are especially handy, offering protein and fiber with little prep time. Frozen fish like salmon or shrimp is another smart pick: nutritious, budget-friendly, and long-lasting. Whole Grains and Dairy Staples Grains like oats, brown rice, whole-wheat bread, tortillas, crackers, and bran cereals bring fiber and energy, plus key nutrients like B vitamins and iron. In the dairy aisle, milk, cottage cheese, and yogurt offer both calcium and protein. Plant-based eaters can look to soy milk, which has a protein profile most similar to dairy. Buying bigger containers can help save money, says Bonci — especially for families or daily yogurt eaters. The Trickiest Aisles (and How to Handle Them) No aisle in the store is off-limits, but some deserve a bit more caution. The checkout lane is one of the worst offenders. It’s packed with candy, sugary drinks, and impulse snacks designed to trigger quick hits of pleasure — not long-term satisfaction. The bakery and frozen dessert sections can be equally tricky. While the treats are often marketed as “fresh” or “convenient,” they usually pack in a lot of sugar and calories with very little nutrition. Center aisles labeled snacks, candy, or beverages are where most ultra-processed foods live — think sugary cereals, pastries, cookies, chips, and soft drinks. These products are engineered to be hard to stop eating, with lots of refined carbs, added sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats — and very little actual nourishment. But Ansari cautions against assuming all shelf-stable items are bad. “Many shelf-stable items are located in the middle of the store and still offer valuable nutrition and accessibility,” she says, “especially for people managing tight budgets, limited time or cultural food preferences.” Labels Over Layout The real key is knowing how to read nutrition labels, understanding ingredients, and being aware of how your cart shapes your habits. “Health isn’t defined by any one food or which aisle it comes from,” Ansari says. “It’s shaped by the overall variety and balance in how we choose to eat over time.” In other words, you don’t have to avoid the cookie aisle forever — but you also don’t need to live in it.
Score (97)
St. Louis Man Uses Own Money To Clear Snow-Covered Streets, Gains Online Praise
A man in St. Louis is earning widespread praise after taking snow removal into his own hands — literally. Kenneth Harrell doesn’t live in the snow-covered neighborhood he helped dig out. But when he saw how badly the streets were iced over and how stuck people were, he didn’t wait around for the city to do something. He rented a Bobcat-style skid steer loader for about $500 and got to work. “Originally we were putting out a crew to hand shovel and we were charging for sidewalks,” Harrell told KSDK. “It just didn’t make sense to me that people could get out of the house, but not off the street.” Instead of making money, he offered help for free. For several days, Harrell cleared narrow streets that plows hadn’t reached, using the compact machine to carve paths through packed snow and ice. As word got around, neighbors started sharing videos of him in action. Some said they’d heard rumors of “someone with a skid steer” quietly showing up to help before seeing it for themselves. Even business owners took notice. Karen Wiley Vails, who runs a local restaurant, messaged Harrell asking for help clearing her parking area. He got back to her right away. “He inboxed me today and I said, ‘I’ll be there,’” she told reporters. “And I said yay — this is what community looks like.” City officials didn’t seem to mind either. When asked if it was legal for residents to do their own snow removal, St. Louis Streets Commissioner Kent Flake said, “I mean, if they’re helping, I’m not going to tell them no.” Harrell didn’t do it for attention. He says he simply felt connected to the neighborhood and knew how much a clear street could mean for people trying to get to work, pick up groceries, or just get out safely. Now, thanks to his quiet decision to act, the community is moving again. And Kenneth Harrell is being hailed as a hometown hero — no cape required.