‘I COULDN’T SPEAK… BUT NOT BECAUSE I WAS EMOTIONAL’ – Bjorn Formosa

Aug 23 2024

A middle-aged man diagnosed with ALS, who lost his voice to the disease, is now preparing to open his third home dedicated to helping others facing the same devastating condition. Despite his silent struggle, he continues to lead efforts to provide care and support to ALS patients, driven by a deep passion to make a difference.

In a heartfelt message, he shared how last year, during his marathon fundraiser, he was overwhelmed by the success of the event. Many thought his speechlessness was due to emotion, but in reality, it marked the beginning of his battle with losing his voice. Now, completely voiceless, he remains undeterred in his mission to help others, organizing his ninth marathon to raise funds for DAR Bjorn Respite, the third home in his growing network of care facilities.

Over the past nine years, his marathons have raised significant funds, resulting in two homes that have provided therapy, counseling, and support to thousands of ALS patients. DAR Bjorn Respite will offer temporary relief to patients and their families, giving them a safe place to turn to in times of need.

Though ALS has taken his voice and weakened his body, his determination remains stronger than ever. He calls on the public to support his upcoming marathon on September 22, to help continue his vital work—one that he vows to pursue until his last breath.

#MaltaDaily

Restaurant “Nanna’s Place” Brings Maltese Tastes To Melbourne

Aug 23 2024

A Mediterranean restaurant named “Nanna’s Place” in Melbourne is bringing Maltese flavours down under to Australia!

The restaurant, found in the South of Melbourne serves a variety of European cuisines, namely Spanish, Italian, Greek and Maltese.

A wide range of traditional Maltese dishes may be found on the menu including Rabbit Stew and Bragioli, Pulpetti and Pastizzi and one may even find traditional desserts such as Imqaret and Puddina.

But the Maltese flavour isn’t to be found only in the food items, as the decor and the namesake of the eatery is all Maltese inspired.

Traditional Maltese doors and balconies can be seen on the older artwork of the restaurant, with a smiling grandma – sorry, NANNA, making up the newer logo.

#MaltaDaily

This Sweet Spot In Malta Makes Ħelwa Tat-Tork Doughnuts

Aug 23 2024

A beloved delicacy in Malta is ‘Il-Ħelwa tat-Tork’, otherwise known as the Halva or, when literally translated, the ‘Turk’s Sweet’.

Probably having been imported to Malta when it was under Arab rule and continuing to be served at thinned of meals or during celebrations, the delicacy has found its way onto a local shop’s doughnuts.

Dolcicreazioni, a shop located in St Venera and Mosta, has incorporated the sweet onto – and into – the doughnuts served at their outlets.

Besides your typical chocolate, pistachio and numerous other flavoured doughnuts, the Ħelwa tat-Tork doughnut is an interesting spin on a tried-and-tested local favourite that’s sure to capture the attention of many wanting to spice up their taste buds.

Would you try it?

#MaltaDaily

Photo Source: Dolcicreazioni St Venera & Mosta (Alan Abdilla)

10,300 Domestic Violence Charges Issued In Past 2.5 Years

Aug 23 2024

The Police domestic violence section issued nearly 10,300 cases in the past two and a half years, according to Police Commissioner Angelo Gafà.

Speaking before the Joint Committee of the Social and Family Affairs Committee, Gafà highlighted the increase in reports since the section was established in October 2020.

The unit has expanded its resources and now has 60 officers stationed at the Santa Luċija hub and Police headquarters in Floriana, continued the commissioner.

The committee meeting was convened following the tragic femicide of Nicolette Ghirxi, who was fatally stabbed by her former partner.

Commissioner Gafà emphasized challenges posed by the Schengen system, which allows individuals to travel between countries with minimal oversight.

He called for a unified judicial system and urged courts to ensure victims testify against their aggressors.

During the session, parliamentary deputies raised issues from the inquiry into Bernice Cassar’s femicide, which pointed to systemic failures due to resource shortages.

Commissioner Gafà responded that 100% of the inquiry’s recommendations have been implemented, with plans for a new domestic violence hub in Imtarfa by next June.

Domestic violence commissioner Samantha Pace Gasan confirmed that 70% of the recommendations are in progress and urged victims to report incidents.

Source: TVM