Driven By ADHD (2026)

17/05/2026

National Nurses Week: Celebrating the Heart of Our Healthcare System

In times where the healthcare system can feel like it’s crumbling, when we're facing critical shortages, and when the cracks in the foundation become too big to ignore – who steps in? It's our Nurses.

Honestly, Nurses are the true unsung heroes of our healthcare. Day in and day out, they take on one of the most important and demanding roles in our society. Even when the weight of a system that sometimes feels like it’s failing seems to press down on them, they still show up. And they don't just go through the motions; they do it with elegance, a gentle touch, and a smile, even when they're completely exhausted.

Think back to when you or a loved one last stayed in the hospital. You were likely at your most vulnerable, possibly in the midst of the scariest, most challenging moments of your life. Who held your hand? Who listened to you? Who fought for you? Who brought a bit of comfort into your room when everything else was uncertain? It was a Nurse. Their compassion is an act of resistance – a defiant refusal to let humanity be stripped away, even when the system around them feels like it’s falling apart. They deserve our admiration, our support, and a loud standing ovation.

On that note, I'd like to take a moment to give a public shout-out to some of the incredible Nurses I know. These folks are spread across the country and beyond, proving that dedication knows no boundaries:

- Serena Mae (Halifax, NS)
- Jace Matthews (Fredericton, NB)
- Christina Sullivan (Fredericton, NB)
- Terri Taylor (Fredericton, NB)
- Adrienne Skinner (Fredericton,NB)
- Nikkia Rideout-Olsen (Hope, BC)
- Katie Peck (Westmoreland, NY)

Let me tell you, these are some of the most kind and compassionate people you will ever encounter. The world is a safer and kinder place because they answered this calling.

To Serena, Jace, Christina, Terri, Adrienne, Nikkia, Katie, and every other nurse out there: We see you. We appreciate you. We're fighting for you, just like you fight for us.

My challenge for you this week: If you know a nurse, or if you meet one sometime in the next seven days, please take a moment to thank them. Let them know that their sacrifices don't go unnoticed. I know for sure that I appreciate them from the bottom of my heart.

Share in the comments below to tag and thank the wonderful nurses in your life!

17/05/2026

It's the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, or IDAHOBIT🏳️‍🌈

Today, May 17th. At its heart, this day is about a simple, human sentiment: compassion. It was on this day in 1990 that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that identifying as part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community is not an illness, but a beautiful, natural variation of human diversity. It's a celebration of how far we've come in creating a world where all people feel welcome.

But compassion is more than a feeling - it's action. And right now, action is what we need.

A Mirror Held to Home

It's easy to look at the world and feel pride in how far we've come. Lately, though, we've seen a disturbing trend. From the politically charged headlines coming from just south of our border in the United States to conversations happening right here at home, we know that progress is never guaranteed.

I am incredibly proud to call New Brunswick my home. I love our communities, our strength, and our welcoming spirit. But my heart aches as I say that our province is currently experiencing a resurgence of homophobia and transphobia. We can't afford to step backwards. No one in our province should ever face the devastating burden of concealing who they are, forced to retreat back into the closet for fear of disapproval, ostracization, or hatred.

A strong community means that everyone feels safe and secure enough to be open about who they are. When we safeguard the rights and dignity of our neighbors, we don't divide - we unify. We create a safer, kinder space for all of us.

Moving Forward, Together

To every person in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in New Brunswick and beyond, please know this: You are loved, you are seen, and you are an integral part of our province. We're not going anywhere. We will continue to stand up for a future that is built on respect and inclusivity. Let's commit to doing better, listening with open minds, choosing understanding over fear, and making New Brunswick a safe place for everyone to belong.

14/05/2026

75 Years Strong: Fredericton International Airport (YFC) is More Than a Terminal

This year, we're not just celebrating another birthday; we're marking 75 years of growth at the Fredericton International Airport (YFC). It's easy to think of our terminal as just a place where planes land and take off. But for us, it's the beating heart of our community – a regional strip that has blossomed into a crucial international gateway. If you live and breathe aviation like we do, this is about more than just the aircraft. It's about our mission to build a stronger, more accessible New Brunswick.

The Future is Taking Off

We're proof that community spirit and global reach can go hand-in-hand.

- A Wider Selection of Flights: Remember when we only had one airline? Not anymore! With five airlines (Air Canada, Porter, WestJet, Sunwing, and Air Transat) now flying out of YFC, we finally have the competition and variety our region deserves.

- Ready for the Future: Our 1,000-foot runway extension is a strategic move to accommodate larger planes and ensure YFC remains a robust gateway for future generations of travelers.

- By the Numbers: Last year, 393,687 passengers chose YFC, reflecting a 4.4% increase in trust and activity from our community.

Everyone's Welcome at YFC

We're committed to social responsibility and personalized service so no one feels left behind.

- Breaking Down Barriers: YFC is the first airport in the province to implement GoodMaps, offering advanced digital mapping and audio navigation for neurodiverse travelers and individuals with visual or mobility challenges.

- Safety is Paramount: Through our involvement with the campaign, we're training our staff to protect vulnerable individuals from human trafficking.

- Bilingual Commitment: Our Official Languages Action Plan ensures that every passenger feels respected and welcomed in both official languages.

Driving Economic Growth & Local Pride

We're building a vibrant ecosystem that benefits the entire Capital Region.

- A Hub of Employment: YFC supports 1,000 local jobs through 20 different companies on site, making us a significant player in our regional economy.

- Celebrating Our Culture: Our terminal is a canvas of local creativity, showcasing 21 pieces of art and hosting 10 local musicians throughout the year.

- Reinvesting in Our Future: As a not-for-profit organization, YFC reinvests its $14.2 million in revenue directly back into our infrastructure and services, ensuring we remain a vital contributor to New Brunswick's growth.

"Having a great airport in our community is critical for business, and for quality of life."
- Morgan Peters, CEO, Fredericton Chamber of Commerce

Our airport is a 75-year-old inheritance that is all yours. Let's keep expanding beyond our horizons.

14/05/2026

🚨 IMPORTANT: Full Province-Wide Burn Ban Is Now In Effect 🚨

Hey everyone, I need to take a minute to talk about something that is going to impact all of us as we approach the May Long Weekend. As of yesterday afternoon, the provincial government has officially put the entire province of New Brunswick under a full burn ban. I know, I know – it's the long weekend, and we've all been so looking forward to finally being able to get outside, fire up the grill, or sit around a backyard campfire with friends and family. It feels like a total bummer for everyone’s plans.

So, why now?

This isn't just a random rule to throw a wrench in our long weekend plans. It's absolutely necessary. We've experienced one of the driest winters in decades, and we've now gone 10 straight months with below-normal precipitation. Our wetlands and streams are running low, and the ground is dangerously parched.

I think we all remember the fear and the smoky haze that enveloped our province during last year's wildfire season. Right now, the data is alarming – we're already seeing three times the number of hectares burned compared to this time last year. Our forest rangers and local firefighters are working around the clock – in fact, last week, they had to respond to more than a dozen fires in a single day.

It's About "Us," Not "Them."

I've seen some chatter online suggesting that this is about "control," or that people should be "above the law" when it comes to their own property. But let's look at the bigger picture:

- Empathy for our neighbours: When it's this dry, a single spark on your property can quickly spread and put the homes, pets, and lives of our neighbours at risk.

- Respect for our first responders: Our forest rangers and firefighters are already working their hardest to keep us safe. Let's not create an avoidable emergency for them.

- Protecting our province: New Brunswick is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Let's not risk losing more of our precious forests due to preventable accidents.

What can we do?

We can still have an amazing May Long Weekend! Let's get out there and enjoy yard games, hike our stunning trails, and soak up the sunshine. We just have to do it without the flames.

Let's be a community that looks out for each other. Let's do the right thing, follow the burn ban, and make sure we don't have a repeat of last year's wildfire season – or worse.

Stay safe, stay vigilant, and let's keep New Brunswick green!

11/05/2026

Hey New Brunswick, it's ELECTION DAY!

Yep, you read that right. Today, May 11th, 2026, is the day where we all decide what the future looks like for our local communities. From the tiniest of towns to the biggest of cities, the people we elect today are the ones who will be calling the shots on our homes, our roads, our small businesses, and our safety for the next four years.

Why Your Vote Matters (Yes, Yours!)

Look, in this day and age of so much change, it's pretty easy to feel like your individual voice doesn't really make a difference. But in municipal elections, that couldn't be further from the truth. These are your neighbours. These are the people who will be making the decisions that directly impact your backyard.

Let's be blunt: If you don't vote, you can't complain. This is your chance to have your say in where your hard-earned tax dollars go and what kind of community we want to build together.

Who's On The Ballot?

Now, there are elections happening all over the province, but just as a little taste, here's a peek at the big race in our capital:

For Mayor of Fredericton:

- Jenica Atwin: She's got experience at the federal level, a former Member of Parliament, and a big heart for social advocacy.

- Steve Hicks: A veteran city councillor with a strong understanding of municipal politics and all the local issues.

- John Reid: With a background in construction, John's bringing a grounded perspective on what our city needs for growth and infrastructure.

For City Council:

There's a great mix of fresh faces and experienced hands vying for your vote in wards across the city. Think names like Heather O'Connell (Ward 1), Karen Matchett (Ward 2), Colin Ebbett (Ward 3), and Manisha Varma (Ward 7). These folks are talking about everything from making the tax system fairer for businesses, to improving public safety, to streamlining the building permit process and supporting the "missing middle" housing options.

Know Your Rights: The 3-Hour Rule

Did you know the law has your back today? The Municipal Elections Act states that any eligible voter gets three consecutive hours to cast their ballot while the polls are open (from 10 AM to 8 PM).

- Got work? Your boss HAS to give you that time if your shift doesn't naturally line up for three hours of polling time.

- No pay cut! They can't dock your pay or punish you for taking the time to vote.

- This is YOUR right! If your employer is preventing you from voting, that's a serious legal issue.

The Nitty-Gritty:

- Polls are open until 8:00 PM TONIGHT!

- Haven't found your polling station yet? Check your voter information card or hop over to the Elections NB website.

So let's do this, New Brunswick! Let's make our voices heard. Whether you're voting for the mayor, your ward councillor, or your district education council – show up and vote!

10/05/2026

Happy Mother's Day to the amazing women in our lives!

Today's not just about the flowers and brunch, but about taking a moment to celebrate the rockstars of our lives - the mothers! Being a mom is, quite literally, the toughest job in the world, and I'm beyond grateful that four women in my life absolutely nail it with every fiber of their being.

For Mom, Our Heart of Gold

Mom(Sherry Currie-Moran), Pamela Urciuoli and I truly couldn't ask for anything better than having you as our mom. You're the definition of selfless; all you want is to see your kids and grandkids happy and thriving. Your heart of gold has been our constant guiding light through it all. Thank you for always being our rock and for shaping us into the people we are today. We love you more than words can say.

To My Sister, Pam

You make me proud every single day. Watching the way you raise Owen Urciuoli and Lucas Urciuoli is like witnessing a Master Class in Love and Patience. You're bringing up two of the sweetest guys I know, and I'm bursting with pride knowing they're my nephews. You're doing a fantastic job, sis.

For My Mother-in-Law, Tammy Grattan

Honestly, I can't imagine what my life would be like if you hadn't brought Andrew Moran into the world. Thank you for everything you've done to make sure Tara, Andrew and Tyler always had a safe place to sleep and whatever else they needed. But even more, thank you for opening your arms and welcoming me into this family so unconditionally. I'm so grateful to have you in my corner.

To My Sister-in-Law, Tara McLaughlin

You're a sunshine in our family. Thank you for being the perfect mom for Violet (and for giving me my first niece - I love her to the moon and back!). Your bond with her is truly special to watch.

To all of you amazing women: I hope you know just how incredible you are. Today, we celebrate YOU - your strength and the unwavering love you bring to everyone you touch.

Happy Mother's Day!

08/05/2026

Forget "Fitting In": Let's Build a World for Everyone.

For far too long, society has treated neurodivergence like a problem to "fix" or a "trend" to argue over. But genuine inclusion isn't about forcing people to be someone they're not - it's about reshaping our environment so it doesn't hold them back in the first place.

If we're serious about creating a neuro-inclusive world, here are four ways we can start to change things up:

1. Focus on the "What," Not the "How"

Seriously, why are we still stuck in the 9-to-5 "butts-in-seats" mindset? For many neurodivergent people, rigid schedules are a hinderance, not a help.

- The Goal: Measure success by the quality of the final outcome, not by the process used.

- The Shift: If a job is done with excellence, it shouldn't matter if it was completed at 2 AM or while pacing around in a home office.

2. Get Radical About Sensory Awareness

That trendy open-concept office? It might look cool, but for a person with sensory processing differences, it can be a productivity minefield. The echoing sounds, bright fluorescent lights, and endless distractions aren't just minor annoyances; they're physical barriers to participation. Let's design spaces that accommodate diverse sensory needs.

3. Celebrate Diverse Communication Styles

Ever been told you're "info-dumping" or "making everything about yourself" when you share a similar story as a way of connecting? In neurodivergent circles, this is often a love language. It's how we show we're listening, validating, and relating.

- Let's stop branding diverse communication styles as "wrong" or "self-centered."

- Let's start embracing the deep passion and unique perspectives that often come with "info-dumping."

4. Bust the "Trend" Myth

"Everyone has ADHD these days!" Nope. What's happening is we're finally recognizing and identifying the people we've ignored, dismissed, and failed for decades. An increase in diagnoses isn't a fleeting trend; it's a civil rights movement. It means more people are finally getting the language and support they need to thrive.

Bottom line: A society that works for neurodivergent people actually works better for everyone.

How can you make a difference? Share this post to spread the word, or drop a comment below: What's one small change you could make in your workplace or community to make it more inclusive?

08/05/2026

The ADHD Tax is Real, and We Need to Talk About It.

If you live with ADHD, it's way more than just being easily distracted. It's a daily, unseen fight against a world that was designed for neurotypical minds - and this fight has a price. We're calling it the ADHD Tax.

This is what happens when your executive functions don't quite get with the program. It's not because you're lazy or bad with money. It's because your brain works differently, and it ends up costing you hundreds or even thousands of dollars every year.

Where Does That Money Go?

- The "Set It and Forget It" Trap: You sign up for a free trial or a one-time service you need. Then you forget to cancel. Next thing you know, you've paid for months of nothing. P**f! There goes your money. The Produce Graveyard: You head to the grocery store with the best intentions of eating healthy all week. But if something's in the fridge, is it even there? You don't even notice it until it's turning into a science experiment, and that produce is money straight in the trash.

- The Replacement Cycle: "Where are my keys? My wallet? My sunglasses?" When it's tough to remember where you put things or to keep them organized, you end up buying the same item multiple times because the first two seem to have vanished into thin air.

- The Dopamine Hit: When your brain is craving stimulation, an impulse buy feels like an emergency lifeline. It's not just shopping - you're trying to give yourself a jolt of brain chemicals the world isn't providing on its own.

It's Time for Understanding, Not Shaming.
We need to stop beating ourselves up for these "mistakes." Society views the ADHD Tax as a personal failure, but it's really just a symptom of how we experience the world.

To my fellow neurodivergent community: If you've forgotten to cancel a subscription or watched your spinach go bad, you are not a failure. You are not "irresponsible." You are doing your best to navigate a world that wasn't built for you.

To everyone else: Support systems, accessible banking, and reasonable accommodations at work aren't "nice-to-haves" - they're essential tools that can help bridge the gap caused by the ADHD Tax.

Let's end the stigma and start the conversation. Have you paid the ADHD Tax this week? Tell me about it in the comments below. Let's remind each other that we're not alone.

08/05/2026

Enough Already: Stop Calling it "Laziness." Start Calling It What It Really Is.

We live in a world that screams "GRIND!" and "HUSTLE!" We tend to judge anyone who can't tick a box on a 9-to-5 checklist with clockwork precision. You see a "messy" desk. You see a missed deadline. You see someone who "just needs a planner."

But you don't see the war raging underneath the surface.

For folks who are neurodivergent - particularly those with ADHD - this isn't a matter of lacking willpower; it's a nervous system that perceives the world a little differently. It's time we pulled back the curtain on the Invisible Internal Struggles that society so loves to slap the "laziness" label on.

The Truth Behind the "Mess"

Task Initiation Paralysis: Nope, it's not "procrastination." It's a weird phenomenon where you know exactly what you need to do, you see the task right in front of you, and you feel physically frozen. Your brain is screaming GO, GO, GO! but your body won't budge. It's not laziness; it's a deficit in dopamine.

- Time Blindness: Forget those perfectly curated minute and hour timelines. Our brains tend to operate on a much simpler spectrum: "Now" vs. "Not Now." Trying to wrap our heads around linear scheduling feels like trying to grab smoke.

Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD): Don't confuse this with simply "being sensitive." This is a profound, almost physical, emotional pain that is triggered by the mere idea of being rejected or criticized. A little white lie about your work can feel like a punch to the gut.

Masking: Of all the ADHD challenges, this might be the most silent and the most devastating. It's the 24/7, energy-draining performance where we hide our neurodivergent traits just to make other people more comfortable. It's a one-way ticket to soul-crushing burnout.

"If a person can't do something, they need support - not a lecture on why they should want it more."

So, How Can You Be an Ally?

1. Lead with Curiosity, Not Judgment: Instead of asking, "Why haven't you started yet?", try asking, "Is there anything I can do to help you overcome this obstacle?"

2. Redefine Productivity: Success isn't always measured by perfectly color-coded calendars and completed to-do lists. Sometimes success is simply getting through the day when your own brain is fighting a war against itself.

3. Validate the Effort: Take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the sheer energy it takes for someone to just show up, day after day.

It's time we stop shaming the "mess" and start supporting the person.

08/05/2026

ADHD isn't a Character Flaw. It's Just How Your Brain is Wired.

You know the drill. "You're so smart! If you just tried a little harder…" Or the classic, "But doesn't everyone get distracted sometimes?"

Let's put the "you're just lazy" narrative to bed, right now. When we talk about ADHD, we're not talking about a lack of effort. We're talking about a fundamental difference in the way your brain is wired.

If you ever feel like you're trying to drive a Ferrari with the brakes of a bicycle, let's unpack the real science behind why your brain works the way it does:

1. The "I'm Bored" Brain: Your Nervous System Runs on Interest, Novelty, and Urgency.

Most people can get things done because of their desire to be important, their need for rewards, or their avoidance of negative consequences. ADHD brains? Not so much. Our internal systems are fueled by Interest, Novelty, and Urgency. If a task doesn't activate one of those three, your brain simply doesn't "switch on" to do it. It's not willful defiance; it's pure chemistry.

2. The Dopamine Drought: You Need a Little (Okay, A Lot) More "Reward."

Your brain is practically "hungry" for stimulation. Since we have less of the "reward" neurotransmitter, dopamine, in our systems, we're constantly seeking out ways to achieve a basic level of focus. That late-night scrolling or the intense focus on a single task? It's not about being distracted; it's an unconscious attempt to feed a starving brain.

3. The "On" Button You Can't Find (DMN Trouble):

Do you feel like your brain has 50 tabs open at once, with three of them blasting music you can't even find? That's the Default Mode Network (DMN) - the "daydreaming" center. For neurotypical people, this network automatically quiets down when it's time to get work done. In ADHD brains, however, it tends to stay buzzing, creating that constant internal chatter that makes focusing feel like an uphill battle.

4. Your "CEO" is Running on Island Time:

The prefrontal cortex, which handles planning, decision-making, emotional regulation, and all that "executive function" goodness, doesn't always mature at the same pace in ADHD brains. We're not being "immature"; our internal "CEO" is just on a different, perhaps more relaxed, schedule.

The Takeaway:

ADHD is a performance disability, not a capability one. We don't need more willpower or discipline. We need environments that acknowledge our unique biology and tools that work with our wiring, not against it.

Share this post to help shatter the stigma. Knowledge is the first step toward radical self-acceptance.

08/05/2026

Behind the Scenes: Why Airlines Don't Just "Close Up Shop"

For those of you who know me, I spent 10 years in the airline industry, and I'm a complete aviation geek (I'll admit it!). The other day, my husband and I were discussing the surprising news that Spirit Airlines had suddenly ceased all operations. He couldn't believe how abrupt it was. From his - and most people's - perspective, it seems utterly wrong to simply stop flying overnight and leave tens of thousands of passengers and crew members stranded across the country.

I completely understand how it looks. It's harsh, and it feels unfair. But having been on the "inside," I wanted to shed a little light on why this happens and why it's never as simple as just "flipping the switch off."

So, Why the Sudden Stop?
When an airline like Spirit "goes out of business," it typically means they've reached the point where they literally can't afford the fuel for the next flight.

Think of it like this: Airlines are operating on really tight margins. Spirit, in particular, was an Ultra Low-Cost Carrier (ULCC). Their whole strategy is to keep prices as low as possible and make money off the "extras." But then the conflict in Iran caused oil prices to skyrocket, essentially doubling the cost of jet fuel.

- The Math Problem: If you're selling a ticket for $50 and the fuel to fly that seat now costs you $100, you're losing money every single time your plane leaves the ground.
- The "Liquidity" Wall: Once the cash runs out and investors or the government (like those failed $500mn bailout talks) stop providing a lifeline, the airline can't legally and practically continue to operate. Continuing to fly while you're insolvent usually opens the door to a whole lot more legal trouble.

A Canadian Connection: Skyservice vs. Sunwing
If you're Canadian, you might be having a sense of déjà vu right now. I remember when Skyservice Airlines went down back in 2010. They were a major charter player, kind of like Sunwing.

Important Distinction: You may have heard about WestJet "taking over" Sunwing recently. That was an acquisition - Sunwing's aircraft are now part of the WestJet fleet. Skyservice, however, was a true "cease operations" situation.

When Skyservice folded, it was actually peak travel season. But here's the really beautiful part of this crazy industry: The "Rescue" Culture. When Skyservice shut down, the airline I worked for at the time - and nearly every other carrier out there - jumped in. In that moment, we weren't looking at them as competitors; we were looking at stranded families and fellow crew members. We operated "repatriation" flights to get everyone home. It's like an unwritten rule in aviation: when one of us goes down, the rest of us hold up the sky.
A Nod to the Crews and Employees
My heart truly aches for the Spirit crews. To go from being on a scheduled pairing to not having a job (or a way home) within a matter of hours is utterly devastating.

The silver lining? The aviation community is incredibly tight-knit. Other airlines are already jumping in to offer "fast-track" hiring for pilots and flight attendants because their experience is invaluable. We look after our own.
The Bigger Picture
It's easy to get angry at the airline, but the truth is, the industry is constantly operating on a knife's edge. Spirit's collapse is a consequence of a global situation - inflation and fuel costs - hitting a business model designed for a much more stable world.

So, the next time you hear about an airline folding, remember it's not just a business failure - it's a colossal logistical puzzle that thousands of people are working around the clock to solve.
Blue skies to the Spirit family. We'll see you at a different gate soon.

Driven By ADHD

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