Cancer Prospectous Improvisation

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin., #203, 8912-156 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

January Vth, MMX

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA, Minister of Education, Progressive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

I am not sure quite frankly what the overall feasibility of this would be, but what about conducting short term courses & allowing terminally ill kids to write up courses and final exams through distance learning at their hospital/hospice bedside. They should be allowed to have their home addresses typed in on the mailing labels so that they are not reminded that their last place of residence is a depressing medical ward.

It is my sincere belief that dying should not be a barrier to educational opportunity, or at least giving the child(ren) affected the chance to feel that they've accomplished something before they go. So if a kid wants to do Elementary, Junior High, High School, or even Post-Secondary courses while otherwise incapacitated, s/he should be able to do so. Free & clear, of any barriers.

I am sure that the Alberta Distance Learning Centre would be glad to provide the lesson materials at a discounted rate. Perhaps with a subsidy from Alberta Education or the Heritage Fund or Sustainability Fund. I am sure that rich folks and the corporate bigwigs who donate to these terminal units would gladly kick in a few bucks to keep the program sustainable.

As I am in the process of trying to get 200 High School credits & to prove I can graduate High School twice, we encourage prisoners to complete their studies from their jail cells & even go onto technical or post-secondary pursuits so that they become rehabilitated citizens, why do we not encourage kids to dream & believe that learning more might take their mind off of their stresses, even for just a few hours a week. They might even think that they are being healed both intellectually & spiritually.

Always Greatful,

Rory J. Koopmans

Souce: The Cross Cancer Institute.