The caretaker responsible for Florence Girard, who tragically died of starvation in 2018, testified that Girard would experience significant distress during medical appointments. Astrid Dahl recounted how she informed the management at Kinsight Community Society about Girard’s behavior, but no actionable solutions were provided.
Girard, a woman with Down syndrome, was reported to have weighed less than 50 pounds at the time of her death while under Dahl’s supervision. In 2022, Dahl was convicted for failing to provide essential care, and the ongoing coroner's inquest aims to explore the circumstances surrounding Girard's care within a program catered to individuals with developmental disabilities.
Reflecting on the past, Dahl expressed that her approach would have differed upon learning of Girard's demise; she initially believed that avoiding medical appointments would reduce Girard's stress levels. During the inquest, Girard's sister mentioned her willingness to care for her if she had received adequate financial support.
Advocacy for greater funding was highlighted by Tamara Taggart, president of a Down syndrome support organization in British Columbia. Taggart pointed out that many parents and caregivers face severe financial burdens when securing essential services, such as speech therapy, which are crucial for individuals with Down syndrome. She shared her family's experience of spending $12,000 annually for therapies necessary for their son to learn to eat solid food, noting that provincial support is often unavailable for families in similar circumstances. Taggart lamented the disparity in access to essential care, suggesting that many families are unable to afford the necessary services due to high costs.
14 Comments
Coccinella
This is a horrifying story and a wake-up call for our society. We need to ensure that everyone has access to the care they need, regardless of their abilities. 🙏
Rolihlahla
Sending love and support to Florence Girard's family and loved ones. We stand with you in demanding justice and change. ✊
G P Floyd Jr
This story has sparked important conversations about the needs of individuals with special needs. Let's keep the momentum going and work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society. 🤝
Martin L King
Speechless. This poor woman suffered needlessly and it seems like no one lifted a finger to help. This is a disgrace to the care system and those who failed Florence Girard. 🤬
Coccinella
Sharing Tamara Taggart's message about the need for greater funding for individuals with Down syndrome. Let's work together to make a difference! ✊
Muchacho
Thank you to Astrid Dahl for coming forward and sharing her experience. It takes courage to speak up, but it's essential for ensuring justice for Florence Girard. ✊
Habibi
Beyond heartbroken for Florence Girard and her family. This is a clear example of how our system fails the most vulnerable. We need to do better! 💔
Mariposa
So important to amplify the voices of those advocating for individuals with special needs. We need to listen and take action to improve their lives. 🙏
Bella Ciao
This is truly heartbreaking. We must do everything we can to prevent tragedies like this from happening again. RIP Florence Girard. 💔
Coccinella
This is a heartbreaking story that highlights the need for greater support and resources for individuals with special needs. We need to do better! 💔
Africa
Let's honor Florence Girard's memory by working towards a future where individuals with special needs receive the care and support they deserve. 🙏
Muchacho
This story makes me sick to my stomach. It's clear that Florence Girard was let down by so many people. We need to demand justice for her and ensure this never happens again. 🤬
Donatello
This story is a tragic reminder of the importance of advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves. We need to speak up for those who are vulnerable and ensure their voices are heard. 🙏
Raphael
This story is a call to action. We need to do better for individuals with special needs and ensure they have the opportunity to live fulfilling lives. ✊