Statement made on 17 June 2010 by Senator Sharon Carstairs (retired)
Hon. Sharon Carstairs:
Honourable senators, last Wednesday morning, following a speech at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario located in Ottawa, I visited Roger's House, a children's hospice located on the grounds of the hospital. Like all hospices in this country, it is a special place where love and care are provided in equal measure. We do not like to think of children dying but they do and they too require the holistic care that is the essence of hospice care.
While at Roger's House, I met Ethan David, who had been born only five days earlier with half a heart. His parents, dad, Jeffrey Waara, and mom, Kimberly Jordan Waara, knew at about 29 weeks of the pregnancy that Ethan's life would be short but they were determined to enjoy each and every moment.
I met Ethan and his parents in a room at the hospice. Ethan's name was on the door, proclaiming his uniqueness, and the room was appropriately supplied and decorated for a family of a newborn.
Ethan was in his mother's arms, with his father hovering close by. They were rejoicing in every breath he took and every smile that came to his face. We all knew scientifically they were probably gas pains but, to those of us in the room, they were smiles. His parents were able to tell him over and over how much he was loved. A beautiful baby with dark brown hair, he touched their lives and those of his extended family.
He died at only seven days old but he brought to, and shared, love with all who met him. My life was touched by meeting him. I thank his parents for sharing him with me for a few minutes. I thank all the staff and volunteers of Roger's House for providing the care required to this family. I thank all those who have given money in support of this special place, in particular the Ottawa Senators, who, along with the Vancouver Canucks, recognize the importance of palliative care for children. Ethan's funeral, a celebration of his life, took place this morning.