FAN 2021 Spring Bulletin

Greetings to all FAN members,

Families in all areas of the province have been experiencing challenging times during this pandemic. It is especially difficult for our family members with limited understanding to not be able to celebrate special occasions and visit family and friends. Indeed, we miss making plans and attending events. Emotions certainly fluctuate. Despite the challenges families and providers have worked hard to find ways to create activities as well as bring some joy into their lives. FAN hopes that staying in contact with each other through our closed Facebook page has been of value and benefit. 

FAN’s core committee and action groups continue to work on your behalf. Here is some good news:

• FAN played a huge role in changing Shared Health’s policy regarding the need for Essential Care Partners in hospitals.
• Fan is given the opportunity to take part in webinars with Dr. Roussin.
• The Inclusive Education action group has met with the senior staff in the Dept. of Education.
• FAN has been invited to meet with MLA, Wayne Ewasko, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration.   
• The Supported Independent Living action group is moving forward with the U of MB. on developing data, through research, about individuals who “fall through the cracks” because they are not eligible for CLDS or other provincial programs/services. If this is your loved ones experience PLEASE email FAN and share your story.
• The Vulnerable Persons Act (VPA) is under review and a Taskforce assigned to recommend changes to the VPA has included several of FAN’s members in focus groups to address amendments.
• Several members continues to meet with Department of Families’ senior staff and bring your concerns and recommendations to their attention.
• Committee members have joined Inclusion Canada in the efforts to have the federal Bill C-7, Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD), sent to the Supreme Court of Canada for review. This Bill clearly conforms to an ableist judgment that a life with disability is devalued and less worth living. FAN met with a MB. Senator who offered advise on the work needed to “fight” this troubling Bill.
• The Quality Care action group’s work on best practice standards for providers of service is on hold due to restrictions related to Covid but the good news here is that this pandemic has identified the importance of Direct Support Workers (DSW) in the lives of our loved ones.  

Meeting virtually through technology certainly has helped and enabled us to celebrate in a small way. However, it is recognized that virtual meetings do not fill or replace our social needs. FAN looks forward to the time when we can gather together not only to celebrate our good works but also to share a hug, a conversation and a good potluck meal. Until then it is important that we all follow the safety measures and limits necessary to be safe and well. FAN thanks all of you who have helped keep the advocacy fires burning by contributing to our questions and the many surveys, and yes, there are more to come. Your feedback is valuable and so is being a support network for each other.

FAN is – Hope, Unity, Grassroots, Support – HUGS!