3 Reasons to Feel Hopeful This Week
It’s easy to feel weighed down by the headlines we see every day. While staying informed is important, it’s just as valuable to notice the incredible things happening around us that often go unnoticed. This is why we’re taking a moment to appreciate three amazing things being done around the world today!
1. “Incredible milestone” in the prevention of cervical cancer
HPV is a common virus that most people catch at some point in their lives. In most cases it causes no problems, but for a small number of people it can lead to certain types of cancer, including cervical cancer.
According to experts, a future where cervical cancer caused by HPV is a thing of the past is now “firmly in sight”. Research has shown that the HPV vaccination reduces the risk of dying from cervical cancer before the age of 30 to “effectively zero”. The vaccination programme has already saved hundreds of lives in England and is expected to protect many more in the years to come.
Stories like this show how research into disease can make a lasting impact and give future generations the chance to live healthier lives.
2. London’s beavers save a neighbourhood from flooding
A group of 8 beavers that were recently reintroduced to Ealing have helped prevent flooding during heavy rainfall. The flooding problem was a decades-long complication that the council had tried to fix through expensive repairs that accomplished nothing.
But within a few years the beavers have reinvigorated the local wetland, prevented flooding through the building of dams and even encouraged more fish to return to the local streams!
This perfectly illustrates how humans and animals can work together, and will hopefully prompt more reintroduction of animals to English cities and countryside.
3. Blind football team improves the lives of local women
Six football teams have been formed across Mexico to give blind women the opportunity to play the sport they love while building confidence, friendships and a sense of community.
One player, a member of the Chilangas FC, said that football has “changed how I see myself as a blind woman.” As well as helping players stay active, the teams are strengthening connections within the blind community and challenging perceptions of what people with visual impairments can achieve.
By creating opportunities like these, sport can become a powerful tool for inclusion, confidence and connection among all people.
While there are still many challenges in the world, these stories remind us of the progress, hope and connection that’s still happening as a result of amazing people – and beavers! Taking a moment to notice these positive moments can help us appreciate the good that exists alongside life’s challenges, reminding us that even small steps forward have the power to change lives.
If you want to see more uplifting stories visit: https://www.positive.news/
Blog written by Sian Murison
