Victoria-Beacon Hill MLA Grace Lore says her four-year-old son, Asher, has been diagnosed with a brain tumour and she will be stepping back from work to care for her family.
In a statement posted on Facebook and Twitter, Lore said the tumour was discovered in February.
“I remain your MLA for Victoria Beacon-Hill, but am relying on the incredible support of my staff, the public service and my colleagues for stepping up to make sure my community is cared for while I take care of my family during this difficult time,” she said.
Lore, who is also the NDP parliamentary secretary for gender equity, was first elected last October in the riding previously held by Carole James. She said people can still access her community office by phone and email in line with COVID restrictions, and she is in regular touch with her staff to make sure that constituents are getting the support they need.
She thanked medical professionals, B.C. Children’s Hospital and Ronald MacDonald House for their “incredible care” and support.
“Thank you to all the front-line workers, including those cleaning our hospitals and keeping our ferries running, who have made sure we can safely access that care for Asher,” she said.
“To our neighbours, friends, and family, who’ve delivered food and activities for our kiddos — thank you. And to all British Columbians — you’ve kept COVID under control over this last year by missing all the things you love so that we can keep each other and our families safe — thank you! Please keep it up, we’re almost there.”
Lore’s posts elicited an outpouring of support from community members and fellow MLAs.
“We’re thinking of Grace and her family during this difficult period,” said Premier John Horgan.
“We will continue to be here for you and to support you and your family …. this is what it means to be a part of #community,” said Finance Minister Selina Robinson.
“So very sorry to hear this,” said interim Liberal leader Shirley Bond. “Wishing you and your family nothing but the best in the days ahead.”
Last year, Lore ran a full marathon with her friend Lise Berube, a 38-year-old mother with stage-four cancer. The pair completed more than four laps of the Elk/Beaver Lake trail to raise money for a cancer charity.
