Family files lawsuit against Nova Scotia Health citing discrimination

By CityNews Halifax Staff

Systemic racism is at the heart of a new lawsuit being filed against the Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA).

An Indigenous family from Kentville is seeking justice for what they’re calling their daughter’s preventable death in August 2023.

Destiny Rennie went to the hospital twice in late July but was each time, the family alleges she was sent home.

After finally being admitted on July 31 by ambulance, doctors diagnosed her two days later with fungal meningitis, and infection around the brain and spine.

However, the family alleges her treatment was further delayed by over eight hours.

With support from PATH Legal, the family has filed a lawsuit against NSHA and four doctors involved alleging duty of care was breached when Destiny’s treatment was delayed, suggesting racism played a role.

The family notes a white boy with a similar diagnosis in late July was immediately airlifted to Halifax for life-saving treatment.

The statement of claim alleges doctors failed to correctly test, diagnose and treat Destiny in a timely manner.

A release from PATH Legal alleges the family’s aim to take action against systemic discrimination by holding the NSHA and doctors accountable.

Meanwhile, there will be a public memorial and march to honour the memory of 22-year-old Destiny Angelina Rennie in October with details to be released soon.