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Ultra low-cost artificial leg developed
BRANDON, Manitoba, Jan. 18 (UPI) -- The federal agency in charge of Canadian aboriginal reservations has refused to pay for insulin needed by a man with severe diabetes, officials said.
Marvin Blackbird, a Keeseekoowenin First Nation resident, had his leg amputated because his blood sugar levels were so erratic, The Winnipeg Free Press reported Monday. There is concern his kidneys will begin to shut down if he does not regularly take the insulin Lantus.
Health Canada has rejected Blackbird's request to fund the insulin because Lantus is not on the approved list of medication for residents for the nation's aboriginal reserves. If Blackbird, 48, lived off the reserve, the Type 2 diabetes medication would be covered, the Free Press reported.
Blackbird, who wants to stay in his town about an hour northwest of Brandon, Manitoba, said his social assistance check is $320 month and his Lantus costs him $200 a month.
Access to medicine to keep diabetics healthy shouldn't depend on where they live, the Canadian Diabetes Association said, calling Canada's approach "backwards."
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