Lack of Necessary Care and Attention Led to Raphael André's Death, According to Coroner's Findings

Lack of Necessary Care and Attention Led to Raphael André's Death, According to Coroner's Findings

Raw and Real: The Tragic Death of Raphael André, a Homeless Man

Coroner Stephanie Gamache's investigation concluded that Raphael André, a homeless man found dead in a portable toilet in January 2021, did not meet his grim fate due to neglect or negligence. This heart-wrenching tragedy serves as a harsh reminder of the inadequacies in our society's care system, particularly for the most disadvantaged.

Gamache's report underscores the chilling circumstances surrounding André's death, expressing that he would surely have survived if he had received basic shelter and care. "We've got some pretty harsh truths to face as a society," Gamache shared at a press conference last Thursday. "Raphael André wasn't given the support he desperately needed, and it's a call to action for each and every one of us to recognize the desperate state of our outreach programs for the homeless."

In her lengthy report, Gamache illustrates that it's impossible to place the entire responsibility for André's demise on his own shoulders. "With the right resources and a proper support system, Mr. André would have lived to see another day," Gamache wrote passionately. "He didn't stand a chance, my friends, and it's a cold, hard wake-up call to our society."

Raphael André's untimely death shook Quebec. Despite his challenging circumstances, he unwittingly became the face of the system's shortcomings for homelessness resources. "The challenges experienced by Mr. André between 2019 and 2021 mirror the difficulties faced by all homeless Indigenous individuals who venture from their ancestral lands to urban centers," Gamache added.

Gamache examined the care and support trajectory of Raphael "Napa" André from 2019. On the evening he was found lifeless, André visited the La Porte Ouverte shelter, where he fell asleep. Due to pandemic health guidelines strictures, the organization had to halt operations at 9 p.m. Routed out onto the cold streets, André sought refuge in a portable toilet during the icy winter night. The 51-year-old Innu man from Matimekush-Lac John had probably huddled there to avoid the harsh winter chill and, perhaps, evade a fine for violating pandemic curfew regulations. The post-mortem examination revealed that alcohol intoxication and hypothermia caused his death.

Read More- André's Death Unmasked the Fragile Shelter System During the Pandemic- André's Tragic Demise Indicted Alcohol Intoxication, Hypothermia- André Had Seen Medical Staff Shortly Before His Final Breath

Cracks in the Safety Net

Although the public inquiry into André's death did not emphasize homelessness, Gamache highlighted the need to address the deficiencies in the community's existing infrastructure against homelessness. "We need to crack the hard shell that's formed around the system to support those without shelter," Gamache remarked.

Over the two-year period preceding his death, André crossed paths with numerous healthcare workers, as documented by his extensive, 4000-page medical history. Despite diligent attempts by various professionals, Gamache revealed that André's case suffered from several gaps in care and services. "Our healthcare network simply wasn't armed to help Mr. André," she wrote. "I believe the lack of an orchestrated approach to tackling complex cases resulted in his repeated setbacks."

In her recommendations, Gamache urges the Ministry of Health and Social Services and Santé Québec to allocate resources specifically for individuals experiencing homelessness with multiple issues. She also emphasizes the importance of providing culturally-sensitive support for Indigenous people and integrating traditional healing practices into the services offered. Gamache highlighted that André had expressed a strong desire to tackle his alcohol addiction, but the scarcity of available services presented a memorable obstacle.

Heartfelt Cries

Matimekush Chief Réal McKenzie was onsite during the press conference and expressed his intent to thoroughly discuss the report's contents with André's family and community. "This report was extremely well-received by all," McKenzie said. "I implore our elected representatives to adhere to Gamache's recommendations and ensure that similar incidents do not occur."

McKenzie also implored authorities to show substantial commitment to addressing homelessness. "I don't wish to single out the government for blame, as I recognize the efforts they've made. But we must all do more to tackle this issue," McKenzie asserted.

Coordinator of the La Porte Ouverte shelter, John Tessier, felt the weight of Eric Latimer's words. "Gamache said it was an inevitable death," Tessier remembered. "And it was inevitable! But it could have been avoided if they listened to us when we pleaded for more time to house vulnerable individuals."

"When Raphael André perished, it wasn't the powers-that-be who wept; it was us, those who could do something to keep him alive," Tessier lamented.

Latimer, President of the La Porte ouverte Commission and researcher on homelessness and mental health, wished for more attention on housing recommendations in the report. "Gamache emphasizes the importance of funding emergency shelter services, which seems to align with our desire for permanent accommodations for homeless individuals. But most of us in the field are advocates of housing, not just emergency shelters," Latimer explained.

Action Plan

Minister Lionel Carmant responded to the media by stating that he "understands" the recommendations put forth by Gamache. "We have yet to wait for the report's publication to initiate action: several measures have already been taken," Carmant relayed to Le Devoir.

Carmant spoke of upcoming ventures designed to cater to the cultural preferences of Indigenous homeless populations, including a planned housing project by the Projets autochtones du Québec and Mitshuap—a project meant to evolve into a permanent, warming hub in memory of Raphael Napa André.

Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante's office acknowledged Gamache's recommendations and pledged cooperation. "We need to augment our efforts to shelter the homeless populace in Montreal," the official said. "We're reaching out to Quebec's government to launch a nationwide strategy on homelessness to address this mounting crisis plaguing the entire province, particularly Montreal."

Santé Québec announced plans to expeditiously review the recommendations with a focus on concrete and collaborative initiatives with organizations in the network.

1. The following is a call to action for each individual to recognize the current state of outreach programs for the homeless.
2. Science has a role in improving healthcare for those facing medical conditions, such as chronic diseases like chronic kidney disease, COPD, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and respiratory conditions.
3. Workplace-wellness programs could include resources for managing mental health, such as recognizing the signs of depression or anxiety in employees.
4. Sleep is crucial for maintaining good health, and insufficient sleep can lead to chronic diseases and other health issues.
5. Health and wellness entrepreneurs should focus on developing holistic approaches to treating conditions like Alzheimer's disease, autoimmune disorders, and neurological disorders.
6. Renewable energy providers may consider contributing to the healthcare industry by reducing the carbon footprint of hospitals and healthcare facilities, improving cardiovascular health for patients and staff.
7. Industries like manufacturing, automotive, and aviation should prioritize workplace safety and health to prevent injuries and long-term health issues.
8. Mental health has become increasingly important in the workplace, and businesses can support employee wellbeing through programs like employee assistance programs (EAP) and stress management workshops.
9. Men's health advocates should focus on bridging the gap in medical research and screening for conditions like prostate cancer and testicular cancer.
10. Skin care is essential for overall health, and individuals should take care to protect their skin, especially from sun damage and environmental pollutants.
11. Therapies and treatments for skin conditions, such as psoriasis, can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life.
12. As people age, they may face unique health challenges, such as digestive health issues or eye health concerns.
13. Women's health advocates should focus on providing access to reproductive health services, such as contraception and breast cancer screening.
14. Parenting can be a stressful time in a person's life, and mental health resources can help parents manage stress and promote healthy child development.
15. Weight management and fitness are crucial for preventing chronic diseases and maintaining overall health.
16. Multiple sclerosis is a debilitating autoimmune disorder that can affect mobility, vision, and cognition.
17. Migraines can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life and may require medical intervention to manage symptoms.
18. Finance and economic stability are critical factors in maintaining overall health, as economic hardship can lead to food insecurity, housing instability, and increased stress.
19. Energy regulations and policies can impact the cost of healthcare, as well as the availability of resources like medical equipment and facilities.
20. The retail industry can play a role in promoting health and wellness through product promotion and partnerships with health-focused brands.
21. Public transit can help address environmental concerns related to commuting and transportation, reducing air pollution and carbon emissions.
22. Entrepreneurship can provide opportunities for self-sufficiency and financial stability, improving mental health and overall quality of life.
23. Leadership is critical for driving change and creating a culture of wellness in the workplace.
24. The automotive industry can prioritize safety features and technology to reduce accidents and improve road safety.
25. Small businesses can invest in employee wellness initiatives, such as wellness programs and employee benefits, to promote a healthier work environment.
26. Aviation can prioritize clean energy solutions to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to overall environmental health.
27. The banking and insurance industries can support health and wellness by offering products and services that promote financial stability and reduce health risks, such as critical illness insurance.

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