The Saskatchewan Health Authority is currently investigating the death of a 30-year-old woman from Saskatoon in August. The woman, identified as Kirsten Hanke, is believed to have passed away due to complications arising from an untreated broken ankle.
During a press conference in Saskatoon, Hanke’s family, accompanied by NDP Opposition Leader Carla Beck, shared their heartbreaking account. According to Hanke’s partner, Morgan Kirby, she fractured her ankle in three places on August 12 while retrieving a package from her doorstep. Despite being sent home from Royal University Hospital and scheduled for surgery three days later, she was turned away upon arrival due to a lack of record of the scheduled procedure. Tragically, Hanke passed away five days later while awaiting a new surgery date.
Kirby expressed his dismay at the situation, stating that the lack of shock among people is concerning, as similar incidents continue to occur. The family was informed that Hanke’s death was caused by blood clots that traveled from her ankle to her lungs.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority has classified Hanke’s death as a “critical incident,” initiating a formal review process that will involve discussions with the family. The family will also be updated on the review’s findings.
Kirby revealed that the family requested to keep Hanke on life support until just after midnight on August 20 to avoid her passing coinciding with her sister’s wedding anniversary. Describing Hanke as strong-willed and caring, Kirby emphasized her dedication to her beliefs and her fighting spirit.
Amid calls for reform in the healthcare system, NDP Opposition Leader Beck urged for a comprehensive investigation into Hanke’s tragic death. The Opposition highlighted the urgency for change, citing numerous individuals who shared similar experiences following reports on Hanke’s case by Global News. Additionally, the NDP reported that 333 individuals lost their lives while awaiting surgery in Saskatchewan during the 2024-25 fiscal year.
