This week marks the beginning of a coroner’s inquest into the tragic death of Florence Girard, a woman with Down syndrome who passed away in 2018 due to severe neglect in a home-share arrangement. Her story highlights the systemic failures that leave individuals with developmental disabilities vulnerable and underscores the critical importance of relational safeguards—networks of family, friends, and allies committed to their well-being.
At PLAN, we believe these safeguards are essential to protecting the safety, dignity, and quality of life of individuals with disabilities. Florence’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of what’s at stake and why we must act. It also calls us to redouble our efforts to create systems that truly prioritize the well-being of vulnerable individuals.
What Happened to Florence?
Florence Girard tragically passed away in 2018 while living in a home-share arrangement overseen by a contracted organization. Her death was the result of severe neglect, with systemic failures allowing her to go unseen and untreated for years.
Florence’s sister, Sharon Bursey, has since spoken out about the lack of oversight and accountability that contributed to this tragedy. Reflecting on her sister’s preventable death, Sharon shared, “I know it’s going to happen again unless something changes.”
Florence’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need for systemic improvements to ensure such tragedies do not recur.
Why Relational Safeguards Matter
Relational safeguards create an essential safety net for vulnerable individuals. When someone has a committed network of family members, friends, and allies:
- They are less likely to experience neglect or abuse.
- Changes in their health or temperament are more likely to be noticed and acted upon.
- Decisions about their care are made with greater understanding and compassion.
Unlike formal systems, which may involve infrequent check-ins or impersonal oversight, relational safeguards provide ongoing, attentive support motivated by love and connection. This human-centered approach not only prevents harm but also fosters dignity, trust, and resilience.
These safeguards are not a replacement for systemic oversight but a vital complement to it. Building them requires a collective effort to ensure individuals are surrounded by care and connection while also advocating for stronger accountability and oversight within formal systems.
What PLAN is Doing
At PLAN, we are committed to strengthening relational safeguards and working toward systemic solutions. Our efforts include:
Building Intentional Networks
We connect families and communities to ensure that no one is left isolated. By fostering deep relationships, we create layers of support that protect individuals from harm.
Advocating for Systemic Change
We call for policies that prioritize relational safeguards as a cornerstone of care. This includes pushing for transparency, accountability, and sustained funding to ensure safeguards are embedded in caregiving systems. While progress is gradual, every step forward brings us closer to a safer and more inclusive system.
Supporting Families
We provide tools, resources, and guidance to help families build strong, sustainable networks for their loved ones. These networks offer immediate protection while we continue advocating for broader systemic improvements.
How You Can Help
Florence’s story is a call to action. Here’s how you can make a difference:
Share Her Story
Raise awareness about the importance of relational safeguards by discussing Florence’s case with others. Share examples of how personal networks can prevent tragedies like hers.
Strengthen Your Networks
Engage friends, neighbours, and community members in your loved one’s life. Relationships rooted in trust and connection are vital for well-being.
Advocate for Change
Contact your local members of parliament to express the need for increased transparency, oversight, and funding for relational safeguards. Constructive dialogue and collaboration can lead to meaningful change.
A Commitment to Change
Florence’s death was preventable, and her legacy must inspire meaningful reform. As Sharon Bursey said, “This is Canada. How is this still happening?”
At PLAN, we are committed to solutions-based advocacy that emphasizes compassion and practicality. We understand that change often happens incrementally, but every effort—no matter how small—can make a difference. Together, we can work toward a future where relational safeguards are an integral part of care systems, ensuring safety, connection, and dignity for all.
Let Florence’s story be a powerful reminder of the importance of both systemic and relational care, and a call to action for all of us to advocate for a more just and compassionate system.