The Saskatchewan Health Authority is currently investigating the recent passing of a 30-year-old woman from Saskatoon, who is believed to have succumbed to complications arising from an untreated fractured ankle. The family of Kirsten Hanke shared their devastation during a press event in Saskatoon, attended by NDP Opposition Leader Carla Beck.
According to Hanke’s partner, Morgan Kirby, the incident occurred on August 12 when Hanke sustained a triple ankle fracture while retrieving a parcel from her doorstep. Following a discharge from Royal University Hospital and a rescheduled surgery that was ultimately not recorded, she tragically passed away five days later while awaiting a new operation date.
Expressing deep concern, Kirby highlighted the repeated occurrence of such incidents, emphasizing the need for immediate change and improvement in the healthcare system. The family was informed that Hanke’s demise was due to blood clots originating from her ankle and traveling to her lungs.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority has classified Hanke’s death as a “critical incident,” prompting a formal review procedure that will involve discussions with her family and the communication of review outcomes to them. The family requested for Hanke to remain on life support until just after midnight on August 20 to avoid her passing coinciding with her sister’s wedding anniversary.
Describing Hanke as resilient, caring, and determined, Kirby believes her death was a result of the untreated ankle injury, although no official medical confirmation has been provided. The family called for a comprehensive probe into the circumstances surrounding Hanke’s passing and urged for systemic reforms within the healthcare sector.
Kirsten Hanke, who held a psychology degree from the University of Saskatchewan and was employed at the College of Medicine, was remembered fondly by her loved ones and colleagues. NDP Leader Carla Beck also demanded reforms within the healthcare system and a thorough investigation into Hanke’s untimely death.
The NDP received numerous messages from individuals sharing similar healthcare experiences after learning about Hanke’s case, citing statistics showing 333 deaths while awaiting surgical procedures in Saskatchewan during the 2024-25 fiscal year.