The Michael Matthews case is heating up in Vancouver! Thanks to all the wonderful people around the world who helped to bring attention to this issue and who took the time to write to the powers at Riverview Hospital, where Michael receives unwanted electroshock.

I was contacted by an employee at Riverview, who asked that s/he remain anonymous for fear of his/her job. This person expressed concern about Michael and his continuing deterioration from the ongoing ECT.

News media and activists in Canada have continued to apply pressure to Riverview Hospital, and a psychiatrist was fired last year after speaking out about the hospital's increased use of ECT after payment increases were approved by the Canadian government.

In March, Support Coalition International released this alert, asking for the public's help in helping Michael fight back.

From the Vancouver Sun, Apr. 17, 2002, front page: 130 shock treatments: 'They hurt, I don't want it' Public trustee's office investigates Riverview case.

April 23, 2002: Vancouver Sun: Advocate banned from Riverview

April 30, 2002: Vancouver Sun: New health authority to probe shock treatments.

May 6, 2002: The Province: Rally at Riverview Hospital draws attention to man, 71, who's had 130 shocks in 3 years.

More about forced ECT, and how you can fight back if someone you know is being forced into this.

next: Margot Kidder Pushes Alternative Mental Health