The tragic death of Florence Girard, a 54-year-old woman with Down syndrome, is a sobering reminder of the systemic failures in British Columbia's care system. Florence starved to death in 2018 while under the care of a home-share provider, Astrid Dahl, who failed to provide even the most basic necessities of life. At the time of her death, Florence weighed just over 50 pounds and had not seen a doctor in over four years.
Despite being convicted of "failing to provide the necessaries of life," Dahl served no jail time. Instead, she received a conditional sentence to be served in the community—a punishment that many, including Florence’s family, find grossly inadequate.
Neglect is Abuse
Neglecting to provide medical care, proper nutrition, or even basic attention to someone in your care is a form of abuse. In Florence’s case, it was fatal. The fact that Dahl failed to take Florence to the doctor for years while her health visibly declined is nothing short of criminal. Yet the justice system treated this gross negligence as a lesser offense.
What message does this send to other caregivers? That the lives of vulnerable individuals like Florence are not valued? That neglect, even when it leads to death, has no real consequences?
Systemic Failures
The failure doesn’t stop with one individual. Florence was part of a home-share program overseen by Kinsight Community Society, which was contracted by Community Living BC (CLBC). This system, designed to support adults with developmental disabilities, failed to monitor her care adequately. Reports indicate that Kinsight had no contact with Florence for at least eight months before her death. This lack of oversight is unacceptable and points to deeper issues within the care system.
How many more vulnerable people are at risk because of understaffing, lack of funding, and inadequate accountability? Florence’s death is a chilling reminder that these systemic issues must be addressed immediately.
Justice for Florence
Florence Girard deserved better. She deserved care, compassion, and dignity. Her death should not be in vain. Justice for Florence means more than holding one individual accountable—it means demanding systemic reform to ensure this never happens again.
Here’s what needs to change:
- Stronger Sentencing: Neglect that leads to death must be met with meaningful consequences. Without accountability, negligence will continue unchecked.
- Improved Oversight: Programs like home-share must have regular, unannounced inspections and follow-ups to ensure the well-being of those in care.
- Adequate Funding: Organizations like CLBC must receive the resources they need to properly monitor and support caregivers.
- Advocacy for Change: The public must push for legislative reforms that prioritize the safety and dignity of vulnerable individuals.
A Call to Action
Florence’s sister, Sharon Bursey, has been outspoken about the need for change, saying, “There’s all of these protocols and handbooks and rules, but it doesn’t seem like any of them are being followed.” She’s right. Rules mean nothing if they aren’t enforced, and vulnerable lives depend on us demanding better.
Let’s make sure Florence’s story is heard. Share this post, write to your local representatives, and support advocacy groups calling for accountability and reform. Justice for Florence isn’t just about her—it’s about protecting every vulnerable individual who depends on the care of others.
Florence Girard’s death was preventable. Let’s make sure her life, and the lessons from her tragic death, bring about the change we so desperately need.
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