Yona M. Harvey

Isolated in a room for 21 consecutive days with barely enough space to move around in. Windows that cannot be opened, no fans allowed. Walks forbidden, even in the hallway outside. No visitors or family members permitted to enter the room, except for…

As Bushra Sbahi, 55, recounted how her family escaped Syria, she didn’t want the details known, just that it was “dangerous,” with “houses flattened,” and that she still fears for the safety of her three adult children left behind. “We were afraid. A…

A cancer diagnosis for an Ontario resident has a significantly higher price tag and out-of-pocket expenses than residents of other provinces such as British Columbia or Alberta. “They are facing hundreds, if not thousands of dollars of out-of-pocket…

Editor’s note: This story is part of a series on the LGBTQ+ community in the Ottawa Valley. Next, we will hear from members of Queer Connection Lanark. A parent’s job is to love and protect their child. When Jill Holroyd’s son came out to her 10…

With the cooler temperatures these days, hot pumpkin-spiced drinks are a-frothing, fuzzy warm sweaters come out of hiding, and nature starts to put on quite a show. Forget Broadway, the best show in town is happening right outside your door! So go…

Let’s face it: the last thing parents need to fret about when sending kids back to school during these challenging times is what to pack for lunches. With most elementary and high schools banning peanut butter, eggs and nuts, most parents’ choices…

Laurent's Ice Cream and Cafe in Burnstown not to be missed When a five-year-old boy comes back with flowers as a thank you gift for making great ice cream, you know you’ve made it. Laurent Coulibaly, owner of Laurent’s Ice Cream and Café in…

In late February of this year, we were all just going about our business — making plans for March break, going to the gym, eating out, working, going to school, hanging out with friends and travelling. High school seniors were trying on prom dresses,…

First Person is a daily personal piece submitted by readers. Have a story to tell? See our guidelines at tgam.ca/essayguide. He was curled up in a ball at the foot of his bed, wrapped tightly in a blanket, when I found him. On this sweltering summer…