The father and step-mother of a man who died at the Royal Alexandra Hospital say they have been living in shock for more than two weeks, seeking answers about what happened.
On May 9, Allan Smith got the phone call no parent ever wants to receive. He was told his youngest son, 33-year-old Travis Smith, had died.
The family said Travis struggled with mental illness and had been homeless in Edmonton for the past three years.
Police told the family Travis was brought to the hospital's emergency department on Friday, May 8, given naloxone, and placed in a waiting room. Alberta Medical Association President Dr. Brian Wirzba said in an interview that Travis received initial therapy but, due to a lack of stretcher spaces, was left in the waiting room. He died a few hours later.
Allan believes his son's death might have been prevented. “If they checked on him, he’d still be alive right now,” he said.
While police provided some details, the family says Alberta Health Services has not. The Smiths said they decided to speak publicly after learning Travis’ death had been revealed without identifying him. “He deserves to have his story told with truth - not as a John Doe,” said Penny Smith, his stepmother.
Travis Smith is among several patients who have died while waiting for care across Alberta’s hospitals in recent months. A judge-led inquiry into another death is underway. Alberta Health Services said an investigation into Smith’s death is ongoing, and a quality assurance review will be conducted. The family continues to demand answers.