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Yellowknife Woman's ALS Battle Highlights NWT Healthcare Gaps
24 Aug
Summary
- Woman traveled south after five local doctor visits, costing thousands.
- Diagnosed with ALS, a rare disease with a typical two to five-year life expectancy.
- N.W.T. lacks a full-time neurologist and an ALS support group.
Mary Rose Blackduck, 69, sought medical attention in Yellowknife five times for severe muscle spasms and weakness, leading to falls and even a broken foot. Despite these serious symptoms, Yellowknife doctors diagnosed her with nothing serious and prescribed sleeping pills, causing her to lose faith in the local medical system.
Blackduck then incurred nearly $6,000 in personal expenses to travel to the University of Alberta Hospital. There, she received a diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive and fatal nervous system disease. The typical life expectancy for individuals diagnosed with ALS is two to five years.
The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority acknowledged the complexity of diagnosing ALS due to the lack of a definitive test and variable early symptoms. However, the territory lacks a full-time neurologist, with specialized services relying on visiting private neurologists from Alberta.
Blackduck is now preparing for the debilitating effects of ALS, which include loss of speech, mobility, and the need for life support. She is considering relocating to Edmonton to join a support group, as none exist within the N.W.T. The health department stated that residents needing medical travel should follow the territory's policy and work with their healthcare provider for referrals.
