Jordan River Anderson was born on Oct. 22, 1999. Due to complex medical needs, his mother, Virginia, left her home in Norway House and went to Winnipeg for his birth. Soon, Jordan needed extensive medical care and this was available in a foster home, near to a Winnipeg hospital. However, since the federal and provincial governments could not decide who would pay for Jordan’s medical support, Jordan remained at the hospital. Jordan’s short life ended on Feb. 2, 2005 at the Children’s Hospital in Winnipeg and he never was able to live in a home with a family. Learn more about Jordan’s story here.
As a result of Jordan’s tragic death, a movement was ignited to uphold the human rights of all First Nations children through the creation of “Jordan’s Principle”. This organization works to ensure that First Nations children receive the necessary care first and then various levels of government or departments determine who pays for these services. Learn more about Jordan’s Principle here.
So, why am I writing about Jordan’s Principle this month? It is because as Jordan’s Principle has been growing across Canada, we are now able to access this support for indigenous students in Hanover as well. This support may include anything from mobility aids and clinical assessments to more educational assistants. South Oaks has already been approved for supports through Jordan’s Principle, including more EA time and clinical assessments for students.
The photo below is of Jordan Anderson and his mother, Virginia Anderson, during Jordan’s time at the Children’s Hospital. Virginia spent many months away from the rest of her family in Norway House to stay in Winnipeg and care for Jordan. This great love for her son has resulted in over 1 million approved applications for supports/services for indigenous children across Canada. What a wonderful legacy for such a short life.
Dale Martens
Principal
in: General