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Family Demands Inquest into Malnourished Man's Death
13 May
Summary
- Intellectually disabled man died from sepsis linked to severe malnutrition.
- Family seeks inquest after discovering brother frail and emaciated.
- Autopsy report delayed due to staffing shortages at examiner's office.
Sean Feldsted, a 54-year-old man with an intellectual disability, passed away in early 2024 at a Winnipeg hospital, with sepsis and significant malnutrition listed as causes. His sister, Shelley Shultz, found him in a critical state at his Gimli group home in December 2023. She described him as "pure bones," highlighting her shock at his emaciated appearance.
An autopsy report, which took over two years to obtain due to staffing issues at the Chief Medical Examiner's Office, confirmed the severe malnutrition. The family's ongoing frustration is compounded by the delay in understanding the circumstances surrounding his decline. Community Bridges, the non-profit managing the group home, stated staff sought medical assistance, including an occupational therapist and dietitian, and made multiple hospital visits.
Despite efforts by group home staff and hospital visits, Sean's condition worsened. He was discharged multiple times from Gimli hospital between November and December 2023. The Provincial Investigation Unit's internal report found no neglect at the home but was critical of hospital decisions. The family is now calling for a judicial inquest to fully examine the gaps in his care and prevent similar tragedies.
