Larry Funnell was diagnosed with osteoporosis 鈥� which means means 鈥榩orous bone鈥� 鈥� when he was 48 years old, shortly after moving to the Lower Mainland from Ottawa.

By then, he鈥檇 suffered 10 fractures, all from accidents no more severe than a fall from a standing position.

It was an unexpected introduction to the disease, known as the 鈥渟ilent thief鈥�, that weakens bones, and puts people at a greater risk of fractures.

Funnell鈥檚 quest for more information led him to Osteoporosis Canada and, eventually, a position as chair of the Canadian Osteoporosis Patient Network, becoming a men鈥檚 health advocate.

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On Sunday, June 25, Funnell鈥檚 continuing campaign to raise awareness about the bone disease brought him to the Township 7 winery in South 91原创, whose annual Art in the Vines event is held in partnership with Osteoporosis Canada.

Admission was by donation with all proceeds benefiting Osteoporosis Canada.

Funnell, who is no longer chair of the patient network, described himself as a volunteer with the society.

鈥淚鈥檝e brought a whole team here to raise awareness of osteoporosis and the importance of bone health,鈥� Funnell explained to a visitor at the Osteoporosis Canada booth, while other volunteers handed out pamphlets.

There was also a raffle and a draw for prizes, and more than 30 other booths with oil painters, woodworkers, potters, artists, and other local artisans showcasing their work.

Renowned wine critic John Schreiner held a book signing of his memoir, .

For those who missed the event and the opportunity to learn more about the disease, Funnell suggested a visit to the website.

鈥�,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 easy to remember. We have great resources online and that鈥檚 always a good place to start.鈥�

Osteoporosis increases bone fragility and the risk of fractures, particularly of the hip, spine, wrist and shoulder.

Fractures from osteoporosis are more common than heart attack, stroke and breast cancer combined.

Donations can also be made online at the Osteoporosis Canada website, which has extensive information about the disease that causes low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue.

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Situated on three acres, is host to other popular events like Bard in the Valley, as well as a Father鈥檚 Day event, Easter egg hunt and grape stomp, with proceeds going to local charity.

A second Art in the Vines market is planned for Sunday, Aug. 27.

More pictures from the June event can be viewed online at the .