February 13, 2012
TO: Rhonda Spivak:
I would like to speak with you to get an update on the story about criminal charges against the Simkin nursing home in the death of one of its residents, Mrs. Lilyan Peck.
Our organization, the Coalition to Support SENIORS AT RISK, advocates on behalf of seniors and their families against elder abuse crimes perpetrated by institutions and by public agencies and authorities.
Despite different laws and different jurisdictions, there are remarkably similar issues arising across Canada and in the United States with respect to the risks, rights and protections afforded elderly people by public agencies. One of those similarities, a growing trend it seems, is the reluctance of authorities to enforce laws on behalf of elderly people, especially in residential care facilities.
One of our associates alerted us to the Simkin story through this Vancouver blog: http://thebernermonologues.blogspot.com/2011/10/important-piece-of-jourrnalism-found.html
I look forward to speaking with you about this.
Thank you,
Lois Sampson
The Coalition to Support SENIORS AT RISK