“Imagine telling a dying man that you’ll help cover his end-of-life care, only to send him a bill and tell him to separate from his wife,” said Keith Jorgenson, Saskatchewan NDP Shadow Minister for Seniors.
“The Sask. Party government is causing unimaginable stress for the Sandeski family.
“The Saskatchewan seniors who built this province like Fred and Teresa should at least be able to age with dignity.”
The Sask. Party government initially promised to cover Fred’s end-of-life care, only to later reverse their decision and bill him, telling Fred’s family that he is “not sick enough.” His doctor has only given him weeks to live.
While Fred’s Weyburn community stepped in to fundraise, helping him to stay in a special care home, Fred remains deeply concerned about the costs, including the costs of care for his ailing wife, Teresa.
Instead of the promised financial aid, the Sask. Party suggested Fred and Teresa undergo an involuntary separation to qualify for a small benefit. The couple reluctantly separated on paper, adding stress to their final days together.
Medical assistance in dying was also previously suggested to Fred in light of his financial situation.
Fred founded and operated the Community Low Income Centre for two decades.
-30-