Colleagues, Darcy Lafferty was born on August 12, 1968. Unfortunately, on November 19, 2023, we said goodbye to Darcy Lafferty who lost his battle with cancer. It was a battle that we were unaware of because he was always putting other people's needs first. In the 18th Assembly, I had the privilege of doing a Member statement about his willingness to help people, especially those on medical travel that needed a non-medical escort.
Colleagues, Darcy was always accommodating and ready to help, whether it was helping my constituent assistant carry things into the office, or countless trips volunteering as a non-medical escort. Some would say he found his calling after being a non-medical escort for his father. It was quickly recognized that Darcy was an invaluable asset to the medical system in the Deh Cho region. I can recall many days Darcy would come into our office to share a coffee and tell us about his latest trip or the ones that were coming up. Listening to Darcy speak about these trips was amazing to say the least. Whether it was about his constant travel schedule or his ability to navigate the logistics of these many trips for his patients.
I remember one of those visits, where he spoke about two upcoming trip to Yellowknife and Edmonton for different people. He talked about having to come home to Fort Simpson, quickly wash his clothes, repack, and head off the next day with the other patient. Darcy would tell us that he always had a bag packed by the door and was ready should he be called upon to help someone needing assistance as a non-medical escort.
Darcy treated it like a job, always on time, prepared, and always willing to ensure the patient was calm and comfortable. He never expected anything in return. You can tell how much it made him happy to do what he was doing. There is not enough words or thanks that can account for all the time, dedication, and compassion Darcy shared with others during his time with us. When we think about Darcy and the impact he left on our life, it's an honour to say we had the opportunity to see and chat with Darcy on a regular basis. We have never met someone as self-sacrificing, unselfish, and kind as he was.
The family would like to thank the following: The Fort Simpson Health Centre, YK Stanton staff, LKFN, and many, many community and family members that were there for them during this difficult time. He will be sadly missed by us all.
Members' statements. Returns to oral questions. Recognition of visitors in the gallery.