Jennifer Desroches is a 37-year old mother of two who has Huntington’s disease. Jennifer has been at Au Chateau Long Term Care Home (LTC) in Sturgeon Falls, Ontario since 2020. 

Because of respiratory virus restrictions, she has seen her life, routines and relationships completely turned upside down.

Whenever her home declares respiratory outbreaks, they limit access to “essential caregivers” only. Jennifer’s two sons are often prevented from visiting because they are not “essential caregivers”. 

Jennifer has not been able to have her boys inside her home for Christmas day for two years now and risks facing the same unfortunate circumstances this year as outbreaks are declared.

We are proposing the following motion ahead of this organization's next board meeting on December 19th. 

MOTION

WHEREAS, Au Chateau LTC home frequently declares respiratory outbreaks and limits visitation to “essential caregivers”.

AND

WHEREAS, Minor children of residents in long-term care homes cannot and should not be designated as “caregivers” and are frequently prevented from visiting their parents.

BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Au Chateau LTC Home amend outbreak policies to NEVER restrict visitations between a resident and his or her child under the age of 18.