A Montreal toddler is undergoing crucial treatment in the U.S. after a near-drowning, highlighting gaps in Canadian healthcare access.
Arthur is now receiving hyperbaric oxygen therapy. This treatment helps heal brain injuries by increasing pressure. Dr. Paul G. Harch, who runs the clinic in Louisiana, says it’s been effective for many kids.
Nicolas shared that after five weeks in Montreal, doctors suggested unplugging Arthur. But now, after seven weeks in New Orleans, he’s breathing on his own and improving. Nicolas believes there’s a big difference between the healthcare systems in Canada and the U.S.
Dr. Harch has treated many post-drowning cases. He explained that Arthur had severe injuries but was still better off than some kids he’s seen. In Montreal, doctors didn’t perform a tracheostomy, thinking Arthur wouldn’t recover.
After a month of care, Arthur was approved for hyperbaric therapy. Unfortunately, this treatment isn’t recognized in Canada for brain injuries. Dr. Pierre Marois, a pediatric rehabilitation doctor, says it should be offered to kids with brain damage.
He mentioned that two hospitals in Quebec have hyperbaric chambers, but Health Canada only allows their use for specific conditions. The Montreal Children’s Hospital stated that hyperbaric oxygen isn’t recommended for chronic brain injury treatment.
Dr. Marois believes many studies show improvement in brain-damaged kids with this therapy. He’s seen some children recover significantly. Nicolas feels they could have done this in Montreal, given the resources available.
Now, he’s advocating for better access to this treatment across Canada. He plans to push for changes to help not just drowning victims but also kids with cerebral palsy.
Nicolas will be in the U.S. for at least six more months, which will cost a fortune. But he’s grateful that Arthur is alive and improving. He’s hopeful for a future where Arthur can walk and talk again. “At this rate, I’m convinced it’s going to work,” he said.
