Man who considered assisted death after bedsore tells coroner’s inquiry ‘you have to fight’ for care
Claude Labelle, a quadriplegic man who understands the struggles faced by Normand Meunier, testified at a coroner’s inquiry into Meunier’s death. Meunier, also quadriplegic, requested medical assistance in dying due to a severe bedsore he developed during a four-day stay in the ER at Saint-Jérôme Hospital. Labelle, who shares similar challenges, emphasized the importance of proper care to prevent bedsores, which can be excruciatingly painful.
Labelle highlighted the difficulties he has faced in accessing specialized care, including pressure mattresses that help prevent bedsores. He described how he often has to advocate for himself and fight to receive the necessary care from hospital staff. In a moment of desperation during a hospital stay, Labelle requested medical assistance in dying, feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of being bedridden for the rest of his life.
Despite considering assisted death, Labelle ultimately decided against it after discussing with his doctor and family. However, he acknowledged the fragility of his situation and the constant fear of developing bedsores. An advocacy group representing individuals with spinal cord injuries, MEMO Quebec, testified that Meunier’s case is just the tip of the iceberg, with several members requesting assisted death due to inadequate care for bedsores.
MEMO Quebec recommended creating dedicated wound clinics, improving communication between home-care services and hospitals, ensuring access to pressure mattresses, providing training for healthcare workers, and valuing the expertise of patients with pressure wounds. The group also highlighted the challenges faced by patients with specialized needs following healthcare reforms in 2015, leading to an increase in serious bedsores.
Coroner Dave Kimpton will consider all testimonies and deliver a final report with recommendations in three months. Labelle expressed optimism about the inquiry’s outcome, praising Kimpton’s attentiveness and dedication to seeking solutions. He believes that the inquiry will lead to meaningful changes and is committed to advocating for improved care for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
The testimony of Claude Labelle sheds light on the critical issue of preventing and treating bedsores in vulnerable populations. His experience underscores the importance of adequate care and support for individuals with specialized needs, ensuring they receive the necessary resources to maintain their health and well-being.
