Chrystal Venator employs multiple security measures in her residence, including surveillance cameras, specialized door locks, and a doorbell that alerts her to any motion. These precautions are not intended to keep strangers out but to prevent her 11-year-old son, Stalen, who is autistic and non-verbal, from wandering off unsupervised. Stalen’s lack of safety awareness poses a constant risk, as Venator highlighted scenarios where he could easily slip away even during simple daily activities like using the restroom or tending to the front door.
The recent tragic incident involving the death of Parker Wells, an autistic and non-verbal child in Calgary, struck a chord with Venator due to the shared vulnerability of children like Stalen. Parker went missing from his day home, prompting an extensive search effort that tragically ended with the discovery of his remains. Venator expressed profound emotional connections to the tragedy, recognizing the ongoing fears and challenges faced by families like hers on a daily basis.
In response to the need for improved emergency response systems for vulnerable individuals, Venator joined the Indigo Alert Initiative, a nationwide campaign spurred by Parker’s death. This initiative advocates for a public emergency system similar to the Amber Alert but tailored for cases where a vulnerable person goes missing without involving abduction.
Recognizing the urgency of timely responses when dealing with missing individuals, Venator emphasized the critical need for such an alert system, not only for the autistic community but also for individuals with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other cognitive conditions. The Indigo Alert petition has garnered significant support nationwide, including endorsements from political leaders.
Jennifer Ball, the national director of Indigo Alert Canada, highlighted ongoing efforts to expand the initiative’s reach, particularly in Eastern Canada, including engagement with the New Brunswick government. While provincial spokesperson Bruce Macfarlane acknowledged the existing alert systems in place, such as Amber Alert and Alert Ready, he affirmed the government’s openness to considering new ideas for enhancing emergency responses.
In parallel initiatives, Breanna Mazerolle, a parent of an autistic child who also wanders, established Every Minute Matters to advocate for improved local emergency preparedness. Mazerolle emphasized the importance of proactive measures and community collaboration in enhancing search and rescue efforts for vulnerable individuals. Public education and community-led initiatives play a vital role in creating safer environments for individuals with diverse needs, as highlighted by advocates and experts in the field.