Examining the Death of Ruthann Quequish

The inquest into the death of Ruthann Quequish, a 31-year-old First Nations woman from Kingfisher Lake First Nation, opened on Monday in Thunder Bay, Ontario. This inquest aims to shed light on the challenges of delivering healthcare in remote communities, particularly in the context of addiction and limited resources.

Quequish died on April 1, 2017, from ketoacidosis, a complication of diabetes. In the days and hours leading up to her death, she had visited the community nursing station several times. Testimony from her family revealed a history of diabetes in the family and Ruthann's struggle with oxycontin addiction.

Her sister, Samaria, highlighted the lack of a comprehensive support system for addiction in the community, despite Ruthann receiving suboxone to manage her opioid dependence. Deputy Chief Lott Sainnawap spoke about the prevalence of drug abuse in Kingfisher Lake, linking it to intergenerational trauma and the scarcity of resources for those seeking help.

He also emphasized the community's lack of a permanent doctor, stating that individuals experiencing emergencies often receive only Tylenol and are sent home from the nursing station. Crown counsel Carolyn Leach confirmed that Quequish visited the nursing station multiple times over ten days, including the day before her death, and was sent home each time.

Jordan Quequish, Ruthann's brother, believes her death was preventable. He stated, "I think if somebody had really listened to her or took their job very seriously, I think she would be alive and here with us today."

The presiding coroner, Dr. Michael Wilson, stressed that the inquest is not about assigning blame but rather learning from the past to create a better future. A five-person jury will deliver their verdict after hearing from an estimated 20 witnesses during the 14-day inquest.