Remember this child.

There are few things in life more heartbreaking than the death of a child. When a child dies, hopes and dreams for the future of that child die as well. When a child dies in preventable circumstances and while in the care of those entrusted to protect that young life, the tragedy is compounded. A judge in New Brunswick reflected on just such a tragedy recently and took some brave and unusual steps to remember and honour the dead child.

The facts in the case of R. v. Janes are remarkable and horrible. Jacqueline Dawn Brewer died at the age of 28 months on December 17, 1996. She died in her crib of dehydration and severe neglect. Medical testimony showed that she had received nothing to drink for at least two days and possibly as long as six. Her parents, who were both of borderline …