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Embrace Life and Well-being: "I CHOOSE LIFE" Documentary on World Cancer Day 2024

Embrace Life and Well-being: "I CHOOSE LIFE" Documentary on World Cancer Day 2024

On this World Cancer Day, I am excited to share the impactful and inspiring documentary I CHOOSE LIFE from Bojan Hadžiabdić and Zoran Kubura with you.

In 2015, I confronted my greatest challenge: a breast cancer diagnosis. My personal journey resonates with the holistic well-being mission of Outdoor Against Cancer (OAC).

Mission Statement of OAC:
Outdoor Against Cancer (OAC) is an international NGO dedicated to #health #education and disease prevention. OAC's mission is to educate and inspire people to be in control of their health - to go beyond traditional healthcare and embrace a more holistic view of well-being.
We empower individuals to be advocates of their health through evidence-based and trustworthy information and supportive communities in the four key pillars of a healthy lifestyle: (1) Physical Activity & Outdoor Sports, (2) Balanced Nutrition, (3) Sustainability & Nature, and (4) Physical & Mental Well-being - a holistic approach for human and planetary health.

Vision of OAC:

OAC’s vision is to help create a world where individuals and collectives can take command of their health and pursue holistic well-being - mind, body, and a deep connection to nature. Let’s rebel to be well.
As we navigate the challenges of health, let this documentary and OAC's mission serve as a source of inspiration. Join us in the rebellion for well-being and take command of your health.

So, let's rebel to be well and take responsibility for our own, our beloved ones', and our planet's lives and well-being.

5th European Cancer Forum 2023 - OAC is committed

OAC is committed …
… to uncover the roots of health issues to create lasting strategies for enhancing individual and collective well-being. 
Their goal extends beyond addressing diseases post-diagnosis, aiming to swiftly decrease the curve of new cancer cases. 
The additional value here is that this not only works on cancer it also works on all other NCDs. 
The Power of Prevention has a huge positive impact on human health  especially when we start early, at the very beginning of children’s lives, during and before pregnancy. 

"Prevention is not passive; it's a powerful rebellion against the status quo of reactive healthcare." 

I don't need to point out the costliness of reactive healthcare. We all are aware of that. But we haven't yet implemented alternatives.
Maybe some of you are now thinking, what is she talking about? 
  • We first have to solve the issue of early detection, then 
  • get people to go for screening and
  • not freeze in fear when they have problems until it's often too late. 

Yes you are right, but our host did not invite me to talk about facts we are aware of.
  • I was invited  to talk about the additional problems we are facing and how we can get on track to beat cancer in Europe.
  • Are there solutions to cap the curve? 
  • And the answer is crystal clear: yes there are. 

In terms of cancer I already mentioned the power of an interdisciplinary approach during therapy and afterwards, and the problems we are facing, such as behaviour change. 

What if we don't step in the trap at all? 
In the trap of cancer, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, mental problems, all NCDs?  
 But it is also an important project for teachers and parents to help them to understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

By the way it's a matter of fact that early childhood education reflects in a Return On Investment. 

Excerpt from Petra Thaller's Spotlight Session during the 5th European Cancer Forum in Brussels in December 2023


OAC Annual Report 2022- 2023

OAC Annual Report 2022- 2023
Letter from the President

DEAR FRIENDS & PARTNERS

Since 2015, OAC has empowered individuals affected by cancer to take control of their own health.
From advocating for physical exercise during treatment to implementing initiatives focusing on holistic well-being and sustainability,
our journey reflects dedication and progress.

We firmly believe in the interconnectedness of physical, mental, emotional, and nature's connection to overall wellness.
Nurturing each aspect is essential for true well-being.

Through partnerships and projects like SUN XR, Rock Your Health (RYHEALTH), UCanAct, and Outdoor Against Cancer Connects Us (OACCUs), 
we celebrate our transformative journey as we advance our vision globally.

Events such as the European Cancer Forum, Young Cancer Survivors Conference, and OAC Health Conferences in Morocco inspire and educate, 
shaping a new approach to healthcare.

As we move forward, OAC expands its focus to encompass all 
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). 

With our team growing and expanding, we'll challenge norms and cultivate a culture where comprehensive well-being is achievable.

Petra Thaller
FOUNDER & PRESIDENT

DOWNLOAD THE FULL REPORT

OAC is Growing: Join the Team as an Intern

OAC is Growing: Join the Team as an Intern
Are you looking to gain practical experience in an internationally active non-governmental organization? An internship at Outdoor Against Cancer (OAC) might be the perfect opportunity for you!

ABOUT Outdoor Against Cancer (OAC):
OAC is an NGO with a global network of highly qualified partners and its own experts. We are actively involved in health education and the prevention of cancer and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Our focus lies on a healthy lifestyle, including physical activity & outdoor sports, balanced nutrition, sustainability & nature, as well as physical & mental well-being. The organization stands out for its research, the transfer of scientific knowledge, international networking, and comprehensive communication.

WHAT TO EXPECT:
  • Gain insight into the inner workings of an NGO.
  • Deepen your understanding of the holistic approach in healthcare.
  • Acquire practical project experience and foster autonomous work.
  • Collaborate with a motivated and effective team.
  • Participate in engaging workshops and projects, including ventures with a Montessori school in Munich.
  • Contribute to the development of scalable health projects for schools.

Internship Start Date: January 2024
Compensation is provided in accordance with legal regulations and the duration of the internship.

WHY OAC?
OAC provides the perfect blend of support and challenge, encouraging individual initiative and allowing space for personal growth. Emphasizing interpersonal relationships, a positive working atmosphere, and a sense of appreciation, as described by a former intern. The organization not only offers insights into management applications but also facilitates the transfer of these skills to university life and involvement in student initiatives.

READY TO JOIN THE TEAM?
We're on the hunt for individuals with passion, dedication, and a desire to make a difference. If you're up for the challenge, this internship could be your perfect fit!

HOW TO APPLY:
Let us know your expectations and aspirations and why we should pick you. Please send resumes and brief cover letters to joshua.thaller@outdooragainstcancer.com.

Can’t wait to meet you,
The OAC-Team

Rebel to be Well: Petra Takes the Stage at the European Cancer Forum

Rebel to be Well: Petra Takes the Stage at the European Cancer Forum
Petra Thaller, Founder and President of Outdoor Against Cancer, will hold a unique Spotlight Session at the 5th European Cancer Forum on December 5, 2023.

Titled "Rebel to be Well", Petra’s ‘Ted-talk’ style session promises to delve into the profound impact that preventive measures can have on human health, especially when initiated early in life. As Petra advocates, "Prevention is not passive; it's a powerful rebellion against the status quo of reactive healthcare."

Forum Focus: Patients, Policies, Plans
This year, the event promises to be a platform for critical discussions on an imperative subject: 'Patients, Policies, Plans: Is Europe on Track to Beat Cancer?'. The Forum will bring together diverse panels of academic experts, patient representatives, and policymakers who are all deeply invested in cancer policy. The focus of the discussions will be primarily on:

  • Exploring the next steps in implementing Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan
  • Considering thinking differently about cancer
  • Examining the role of health literacy and patient empowerment in cancer care

The timing of this event is particularly crucial, as it coincides with the upcoming European Elections and the mid-term review of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan slated for 2024. These developments underscore the urgency and importance of the discussions that will unfold at the 5th European Cancer Forum.

Opportunity for Impact
It's an opportunity to generate fresh perspectives and ideas, all with the ultimate aim of enhancing patient outcomes. In a world where cancer affects millions of lives, our collective efforts to improve cancer care are more critical than ever.

The 5th European Cancer Forum is an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, gain valuable insights, and collaborate with like-minded individuals committed to making a difference.

Details about the Event:

When?
  • Tuesday, 5 December 2023 - 10:00 – 15:00 CET
  • Petra’s ‘Ted-talk’ style session from 12:10 to 12:30 CET

Where?
  • Solvay Library - Belliardstraat/Rue Belliard 137A, 1040 Brussels, Belgium


For more information about the event, including the agenda, please visit www.europeancancerforum.eu

OACCUs Partners Meet in Palermo

OACCUs Partners Meet in Palermo
Together for a Healthier Future
 
OACCUs: Empowering Youth Cancer Survivors and Their Network 
Funded by the EU4Health Programme, OACCUs is on a mission to empower young cancer survivors, their families, and friends towards a healthier lifestyle. A collaboration of partners from six European countries seeks to build a supportive network for youth cancer survivors. 
On October 4th and 5th, CEIPES in Palermo hosted a pivotal two-day meeting for the OACCUs project. Partners seized the opportunity to exchange updates, insights, and strategies, advancing the project's goals. 
 
The OACCUs Toolbox: Enhancing Support for Cancer Survivors 
A highlight of the meeting was a comprehensive discussion on the OACCUs toolbox. This resource hub, central to the project, equips cancer survivors and their support networks with essential tools. Enhancements to user-friendliness and accessibility were explored. 
 
Tailoring Support: Addressing the Needs of Young Cancer Survivors 
The meeting delved into the status of literature reviews and scientific insights into end-user needs. This knowledge forms the foundation for tailoring project offerings to the unique preferences of young cancer survivors. 
 
Empowering Ambassadors: OACCUs' Ambassador Training Program 
A pivotal aspect of the meeting was the introduction of the Ambassador training program. This program plays a key role in preparing individuals to become ambassadors for the OACCUs project. 
 
Sustainable Impact: Ensuring OACCUs' Long-Term Success 
Sustainability is a cornerstone of the OACCUs project. Partners dedicated time to strategize ways to ensure the enduring impact of OACCUs initiatives, safeguarding a positive influence for the future. 
 
Exploring Palermo's Rich Culture: A Bonding Experience 
Amidst productive meetings, the consortium took a cultural excursion, immersing themselves in Palermo's rich heritage through a guided tour of the Teatro Massimo. This experience not only enriched their understanding but also strengthened their collaboration. 
 
OACCUs: For a Lasting Impact on Youth Cancer Survivors' Well-being 
As the OACCUs project advances, its commitment to empowering and supporting young cancer survivors remains steadfast. The consortium's collaborative efforts are poised to create a lasting and positive impact on the health and well-being of its target audience. 
 
 
Author: Sara Vivirito 

Outdoor Fun for Health: RYHEALTH Movement Day with Outdoor Against Cancer and Campus di Monaco

Outdoor Fun for Health: RYHEALTH Movement Day with Outdoor Against Cancer and Campus di Monaco
School in motion 

On September 25th, the first RYHEALTH Movement Day came to life at the Utopia adventure playground in Munich, welcoming students from grades 1 to 6 from the Campus di Monaco. This special day, made possible through a partnership with project ally Outdoor Against Cancer (OAC), saw over 120 enthusiastic children embracing the opportunity to embark on exciting physical adventures.

One highlight of the event was the exhilarating experience of scaling a seven-meter high climbing tower. Guided by two seasoned climbers, the students and even teachers of all ages defied their doubts and reached the pinnacle of the tower, a feat that instilled self-confidence and radiant smiles. The children were eager for more, with one student from the 3-4 class exclaiming: "Today I climbed for the first time. At first, I thought the tower was too high, I wouldn't make it. I am very proud and want to try again right now!"

The RYHEALTH Movement Day catered to a wide range of interests with activities like football, hula hoops, juggling, and frisbee, ensuring that there was something for everyone.

At the water station, participants had the chance to learn about the importance of water in the human body and various foods. Who would have imagined that a 7-year-old should aim to consume one and a half liters of water daily? Knowledge about hydration and its significance was a valuable takeaway.

After four hours of exercise, nourishing food, basking in the sun, and connecting with nature, everyone returned to school, a bit tired but immensely content. The event was an all-around success, aligning seamlessly with the four pillars of the RYHEALTH project: The Activity Project, The Food Project, The Happiness Project, and The Sustainability Project.

Rock Your Health (RYHEALTH) is a project of six partners (including Campus di Monaco and Outdoor Against Cancer) from four European countries. The goal is a holistic concept with a great impact on health promotion and disease prevention. The target audience spans from primary and secondary school students, their teachers, and families.

Save the Date: Healthy Lifestyle for Young Cancer Survivors Webinar – October 18

Save the Date: Healthy Lifestyle for Young Cancer Survivors Webinar – October 18
CHOOSE the HEALTHy way! 
1st Outdoor Against Cancer Connects Us-Webinar
TOPIC: Healthy Lifestyle for Young Cancer Survivors
DATE: October-18, 2023
TIME: 17.00 - 18.30 CET
HOST: Outdoor Against Cancer Connects Us – OACCUs
LANGUAGE: English
REGISTER NOW 
 
Join us for our first webinar, connect with like-minded people and together we will uncover the meaning of OACCUs' mission "CHOOSE the HEALTHy way" in the fight against cancer.   
 
Don’t miss out, no matter if you are a survivor, family member, friend, healthcare professional or simply interested in making a difference. In just 1.5 hours, you'll gain a firsthand experience of the true meaning and impact of a healthy lifestyle.  
 
We’ll answer questions like:  
  • What is the Project Outdoor Against Cancer Connects Us about?   
  • What is considered a Healthy Lifestyle and why is it so important for your future? Gain practical insights into the four key pillars and their benefits:  
  • How do Physical Activity & Outdoor Sports contribute to a healthy lifestyle?  
  • In what ways does Balanced Nutrition impact your well-being?  
  • What are the links between Sustainability & Nature and overall health and wellness?  
  • What strategies can help you find equilibrium between Physical & Mental Well-Being?  
  • What is an OACCUs Ambassador and how can I become one? Learn about the journey and training that empowers you to support Young Cancer Survivors most effectively.  
  • How can I make an impact? Delve deeper and support other young cancer survivors on their path to a healthy future.  
 
 
We welcome your questions and constructive feedback, as you are the focus of our efforts at OACCUs – our champions and our driving force. 
 
This is your chance to make a meaningful difference. Reserve your spot now, and let's CHOOSE the HEALTHy way together. 
 
1st Outdoor Against Cancer Connects Us-Webinar
TOPIC: Healthy Lifestyle for Young Cancer Survivors
DATE: October-18, 2023
TIME: 17.00 - 18.30 CET
HOST: Outdoor Against Cancer Connects Us – OACCUs
LANGUAGE: English 
 

REGISTER NOW 

 
 
* the Webinar will be held in English 
 

Outdoor Against Cancer und ESV München e.V. together at the Outdoor Sport Festival in Munich

Outdoor Against Cancer und ESV München e.V. together at the Outdoor Sport Festival in Munich
Event Details
Date: September 24, 2023
Time: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Location: Olympiapark Munich

Key data of the event
When: September 24, 2023
Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: Munich Olympic Park

Health to participate and learn is the motto of the two Munich based organizations: OAC and ESV
A visit to the joint booth is definitely worth it. Our experts on site will be available to answer questions about health and a healthy lifestyle. Thanks to the support of the Prevention Centre Department of Sport and Health Sciences Technical University of Munich (TUM), you can do special health tests to see what is your current fitness situation? And based on the 4 OAC pillars: (1) Physical Activity and Outdoor Sports; (2) Balanced Nutrition; (3) Sustainability & Nature; (4) Physical & Mental Well-Being, you'll get tips that are easy to implement on how you can improve your health every day.

OAC live on the stage of Radio Arabella
Time: 16.15
We are especially looking forward to the presence of Joshua Thaller and Devin Bayer. The two sports scientists are responsible for health consulting and science at OAC.

Projects funded by the European Union

Arrival by public transport:
subway line U3 direction Moosach, via Olympiazentrum, approx. 10 min. walk to the Olympiapark
Streetcar line 20 and 21 stop Olympiapark West
City bus line 173 stop Olympiapark-Eisstadion
or even better, on foot or by bike, that already pays into your own exercise account in terms of healthy lifestyle.

More information about the event

 
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

'I CHOOSE LIFE ' and the Beginning of a Profound Friendship

'I CHOOSE LIFE ' and the Beginning of a Profound Friendship
"In February 2022, I was skiing and ski mountaineering  in the mountains around Sarajevo with two filmmakers from Bosnia-Herzegovina, Zoran Kubura and Bojan Hadžiabdić. And I was deeply impressed and enamored. Enamored with their way of seeing things, their passion for their profession as filmmakers, their humility, and their exceptional cinematic abilities to convey complex subjects with precision. They aren't just empty talkers; they are thinkers and doers working towards a better world. Their focus as directors and filmmakers remains on meaningful projects and their cinematic execution.



Since then, I have been fortunate enough to call them my friends. After the documentary I CHOOSE LIFE, which portrayed my role as the President and Founder of OAC (Outdoor Against Cancer), we collaborated on another project together:




CHOOSE the HEALTHy way - a short film about the healthy lifestyle of young cancer survivors. From over 780 entries submitted, the WHO selected a shortlist of 90 films. OACCUs’ entry “CHOOSE the HEALTHy way” was officially selected as one of the 15 films within the category “Special Prize: Very Short Film

Concept, idea and production of the short film: Petra Thaller, founder and president of Outdoor Against Cancer and cancer survivor.
Directing, camera and editing: Bojan Hadžiabdić and Zoran Kubura from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Our next joint project involves creating videos for the personalized training plan of the Outdoor Against Cancer Connects Us App, or simply OACCUs App.
Until today, it has been an incredible journey of creativity, friendship, and shared aspirations, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such talented and inspiring filmmakers." - Petra Thaller

Outdoor Against Cancer (OAC) Connects Us - OACCUs is an Essential Part of Europe's Beating Cancer Plan

Outdoor Against Cancer (OAC) Connects Us - OACCUs is an Essential Part of Europe's Beating Cancer Plan
Stay Tuned
____________________________________

Nicole Stiegeler
E-Mail
Work Package 4 (WP4)
Project Management | Communication
 
Dr. George Ioannidis
E-Mail
Work Package 3 (WP3)
Network Toolbox | App

Dr. Tom Degenhardt
E-Mail
WP3 and WP3
Medical Director


Joshua Thaller
E-Mail 
WP3 and WP4
Health Consulting | Science & Research


WRITE US
___________________________________




Finanziert von der Europäischen Union. Die hier geäußerten Ansichten und Meinungen sind jedoch ausschließlich die der Autorinnen und Autoren und spiegeln nicht unbedingt die der Europäischen Union oder der European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA) wider. Weder die Europäische Union noch die gewährende Behörde können dafür verantwortlich gemacht werden.

Rock Your Health - RYHEALTH is an Essential Part of Europe's Beating Cancer Plan

Rock Your Health - RYHEALTH is an Essential Part of Europe's Beating Cancer Plan
STAY TUNED
____________________________________

Nicole Stiegeler (OAC Lead)
E-Mail 
Work Package 5 (WP5)
Project Management | Communication

Dr. George Ioannidis
E-Mail
Work Package 3 (WP3)
Network Toolbox | App

Joshua Thaller
E-Mail 
WP5 and WP3
Health Consulting | Science & Research

Sara Thaller
E-Mail
WP5 and WP3
School Consulting | Educational Material

WRITE US 
____________________________________




Finanziert von der Europäischen Union. Die hier geäußerten Ansichten und Meinungen sind jedoch ausschließlich die der Autorinnen und Autoren und spiegeln nicht unbedingt die der Europäischen Union oder der European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA) wider. Weder die Europäische Union noch die gewährende Behörde können dafür verantwortlich gemacht werden.

Mission Of the European Union Co-Funded School Project: Rock Your Health - RYHEALTH

Mission Of the European Union Co-Funded School Project: Rock Your Health - RYHEALTH
ROCK Your Health - Learn, experience and live healthy behaviours in a sustainable way
Rock Your Health (RYHEALTH) is a project of 6 partners from 4 European countries that aims to develop a holistic intervention for students, a socially integrated concept that will spread in society and will have a great impact on health promotion and disease prevention in the EU.
Project priorities include physical activity in a healthy environment, healthy balanced diets, mental health, well-being of students and young people. RYHEALTH starts at the primary school and is permanently anchored in the secondary school. The goal is to learn, experience and live healthy behaviours in a sustainable way. In doing so, RYHEALTH enables the setting of positive, health-promoting triggers related to healthy lifestyles. RYHEALTH reaches children of different socio-economic status and is designed to involve teachers, students, parents having thus an intergenerational impact and meeting totally the EU4Health goal: HealthyLifeStyle4All. The specific objectives are:

  • Supporting the promotion of outdoor activity, a healthy environment, healthy eating, and healthy lifestyle behaviours among students of primary and secondary schools as an effective measure to prevent and reduce the risk of developing cancer and NCDs like obesity and cardiovascular diseases.
  • Improving the competences of teachers, students, and parents to embed health promotion and disease prevention through healthy lifestyle behaviours among students and young people.
  •  Facilitating and increasing the practices of health enhancing lifestyle activities in a healthy environment among people from an early age according to the guidelines of EU4Health.
  • Increasing the awareness of good healthy habits related to a physical active life and healthy diet decreasing unhealthy behaviours with accessible and friendly-user targeted information and communication.
  • Generating a developing European community and network of institutions, schools, students, and families involved in the promotion of sport, outdoor activities, and healthy lifestyle.

Petra Thaller, Founder & President OAC
"As author of this project I am committed to ensuring that this project gradually inspires more schools at the European level with its educational content. I will make every effort to promote the adoption of this project by schools across Europe, encouraging them to incorporate its teachings into their curriculum. Together, we can work towards creating a widespread impact on the well-being and education of children throughout the continent."

Dissemination, Communication, and Toolbox Leader
Outdoor Against Cancer gUG
Dr. h.c. Petra Thaller
Prinzregentenstrasse 97 | D - 81677 München | Germany
ryhealth@outdooragainstcancer.com
Web: https://www.outdooragainstcancer.com | Email: petra.thaller@outdooragainstcancer.com

Project Coordination
University of Coimbra
Prof. Paula Tavares
contact@ryhealth.eu




Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

OAC Connects Us - The Power of Communication And Dissemination

OAC Connects Us - The Power of Communication And Dissemination


Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

OAC Presentation at the Sport4Cancer Congress in Murcia

OAC Presentation at the Sport4Cancer Congress in Murcia

More about the Sport4Cancer Scientific Congress


Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

OAC is Consortium Partner in The Horizon Europe Project: SUN XR

OAC is Consortium Partner in The Horizon Europe Project: SUN XR


Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.


'CHOOSE the HEALTHy way' - Selected by the World Health Organisation (WHO)

'CHOOSE the HEALTHy way' - Selected by the World Health Organisation (WHO)

WHO Health for All Film Festival 2023 officially selects OAC Connects Us - OACCUs short film “CHOOSE the HEALTHy way” in the category "Very Short Film - Special Prize" 






The OACCUs project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

Outdoor Against Cancer 
Petra Thaller, Founder & President
Dissemination and Communication Leader
Prinzregentenstr. 97
D–81677 München
Germany

Impressive Success: OAC at the Sport4Cancer Scientific Congress in Murcia

Impressive Success: OAC at the Sport4Cancer Scientific Congress in Murcia



Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Health and Digital Executive Agency (HADEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

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