This CTV story needs much, much more coverage.
This mama adopted four children, all with very significant special needs, as babies. Her doctor expresses that she is an “angel” sent to care for these children. He is effusive about the quality of care that she provides and her devotion. She also has a Masters in Special Education and has been a foster mother for 25 years.
According to the CTV coverage, it appears that the Quebec Department of Youth Protection took two of the children away from their mother because the mother put the children on a gluten-free and dairy-free diet. The children have Down Syndrome and autism. One of my doctors has a large autistic patient clientele. Just from sitting in the waiting room and picking up the various autism-related magazines and books, this appears to be a fairly common diet adopted by parents exploring different avenues in hopes of helping their kids. Regardless if you believe in the benefits of the diet, is this really a reason for the state to step in and take children from their mother?
(I’ve been on a gluten-free and dairy-free diet due to allergies for years. Trust me, you can eat healthy without gluten or dairy.)
Additionally, it appears that the Department didn’t follow its own policies when it comes to removing children from their parents. Allegedly, they did not contact teachers, family members or the children’s doctor to verify whether the children were receiving appropriate care, as is supposed to be the case. The mother wasn’t even notified that the children would be taken from her, apparently a very rare move. The Department just took the kids from school and put them in foster care.
The comments made by the mother’s lawyer, Politimi Karounis are insightful. Watch the interview here. Here’s an interview with the mother.
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