A Tragic Fall, a Family's Fight: Lawsuit Reveals Harrowing Negligence at Extendicare Oakview Place

In a profound and heart-wrenching legal battle, the family of an 84-year-old man who tragically died following a fall at a Winnipeg long-term care home has launched a lawsuit, alleging systemic negligence and a failure to provide safe, compassionate care. William Klassen, a beloved father and resident at Extendicare Oakview Place, suffered a fatal fall in July 2020, an incident his family believes was preventable and indicative of broader issues within the facility and the healthcare system.

The devastating incident occurred on July 10, 2020, when Klassen, described as a 'high fall risk,' fell at Oakview Place.

The consequences were severe, necessitating surgery for his injuries. Sadly, weeks later in August 2020, William Klassen succumbed, leaving his daughter, Lisa Klassen, and the rest of his family grappling not only with immense grief but also with unsettling questions about the circumstances surrounding his death.

Their pursuit of justice is now enshrined in a lawsuit naming Extendicare, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA), and several individual staff members.

At the core of the family's claim are serious allegations of negligence. They contend that Extendicare Oakview Place, along with the WRHA, failed in their duty to adequately care for Mr.

Klassen. Specific concerns include the alleged inconsistent application of his care plan, which mandated the use of a 'posy' device to help keep him upright in his wheelchair. Furthermore, the family recounts distressing instances where Klassen was reportedly left unattended, and his call bell, a lifeline for many vulnerable residents, frequently went unanswered – critical lapses that they argue directly contributed to his fatal fall.

Compounding the tragedy is the unsettling backdrop against which Klassen's fall occurred.

Just months prior to the incident, an independent report, commissioned by the WRHA itself and released in July 2020, had painted a grim picture of Extendicare Oakview Place. This damning assessment uncovered 'significant deficiencies' and 'substandard' care across various facets of the facility's operations.

The report highlighted rampant staff burnout, a glaring absence of effective leadership, critical communication breakdowns, and pressing concerns regarding resident safety, explicitly mentioning issues related to falls.

The findings of this report eerily echo the family's specific concerns regarding William Klassen.

Given his documented status as a high fall risk, the alleged failures to consistently implement his care plan and ensure timely assistance take on a profoundly distressing significance. The family asserts that the facility's apparent disregard for its own safety protocols and the identified systemic issues created an environment where a preventable tragedy was all but inevitable.

In response to these grave accusations, Extendicare has filed a statement of defence vigorously denying any negligence.

They maintain that their care met acceptable standards and that Klassen's injuries and subsequent death were not a result of any failing on their part. Furthermore, Extendicare has sought to deflect some responsibility, pointing to the WRHA for alleged underfunding and understaffing as contributing factors, suggesting systemic issues beyond their direct control.

Similarly, the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority has also presented a statement of defence, rejecting the allegations of negligence.

The WRHA has invoked 'institutional immunity' and asserted that the care provided by its staff met 'acceptable standards.' This stance places both major defendants in direct opposition to the family's claims, setting the stage for a complex and emotionally charged legal battle that seeks to unravel the truth behind William Klassen's final weeks.

The broader reputation of Extendicare Oakview Place further amplifies the gravity of this lawsuit.

The facility tragically became infamous months after Klassen's death for experiencing Canada's deadliest nursing home COVID-19 outbreak, claiming the lives of 44 residents. This dark chapter in its history underscores a period of intense scrutiny and severe criticism regarding the quality and safety of care provided at Oakview Place, adding another layer of urgency to the family's quest for accountability.

For Lisa Klassen and her family, this lawsuit is far more than a claim for damages; it is a desperate plea for justice and a powerful call for change.

Their ultimate goal is to ensure that no other family endures the profound pain and loss they have experienced due to what they believe was preventable negligence. While none of the allegations have been proven in court, the legal proceedings shine an unwavering spotlight on critical questions about the standards of care for our most vulnerable citizens and the accountability of those entrusted with their well-being.