UPDATE SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
We finally located Andrew today. We were extremely worried about him. He was missing almost two days. I must apologize for the bold print. I was very upset this morning. The details of what happened may surprise you. I know I was in a tailspin trying to put out the fires. Hoping for a better day tomorrow.
YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE WHAT HAPPENED TODAY! LLOYD AND I ARE COMPLETELY IN SHOCK!
ANDREW HAS BEEN MISSING FOR OVER 24 HOURS WITH NO SIGHTINGS. I PHONED TORONTO POLICE AT 5:30 A.M. SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 AND WAS DENIED A REQUEST TO FILE A MISSING PERSON'S REPORT.
ABOUT AN HOUR LATER, STAFF SGT. BARNETT, BADGE 5289, TORONTO POLICE DIVISION 12, CALLED BACK AND SAID THAT HE HAD DONE AN INVESTIGATION AND A MISSING PERSON'S REPORT WAS JUSTIFIED. HE SAID THEY WOULD FOLLOW-UP WITH ME LATER.
I FEEL LIKE I WAS PUT THROUGH A TORTURE TEST TO GET THIS MISSING PERSON'S REPORT FILED THIS MORNING. IT SHOULD NOT BE THIS WAY! I HAD TO FIGHT TO GET IT. I AM RUNNING ON FUMES! BUT YOU HAVE NOT HEARD THE WORST!
STAFF SGT. BARNETT TOLD ME THAT THE OFFICERS SAW ANDREW YESTERDAY IN FRONT OF NO FRILLS AND THAT HE IS NOW WEARING GREEN CAMOUFLAGE SHORTS AND A TANK TOP. THIS TURNED OUT TO BE A FALSE REPORT. THE STAFF SGT. DID NOT GIVE ME THE NO FRILLS LOCATION OR THE TIME, BUT HE SAID ANDREW HAS BEEN SEEN IN THE MORNINGS.
AT 2:00 P.M. I RECEIVED A PHONE CALL FROM THE STAFF SGT. TELLING ME THERE WOULD BE NO MISSING PERSON'S ALERT. I ALREADY KNEW THAT A FEW HOURS PRIOR, BUT IT SEEMS THE STAFF SGT. DID NOT WANT TO CALL EARLIER AND GIVE ME THE BAD NEWS. HE ASSURED ME THE POLICE OFFICERS WOULD KEEP AN EYE ON HIM.
THE POLICE BASICALLY TOLD ME TO LEAVE ANDREW ALONE, THAT HE WILL BE JUST FINE! DO YOU BELIEVE THAT? STAFF SGT. BARNETT SHARED THAT HE HAS CHILDREN. DO YOU THINK HE WOULD WANT A POLICE OFFICER TELLING HIM TO WALK AWAY FROM HIS CHILD ON THE STREET, AS THEY WILL BE JUST FINE? I THINK NOT! I WILL NOT ABANDON ANDREW ON THE STREETS I DON'T CARE WHAT THEY SAY!
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
UPDATE 10:30 A.M. Several Facebook friends were telling me that there was MISSING PERSON'S ALERT FOR ANDREW! I was shocked!
I phoned Division 12 and spoke to Detective Daniel Amyotte. He told me that he has no further involvement in Andrew's case. He referred me to Toronto Police Supervisor, Shoni Pattison, Missing Person's Unit. She informed me that there will be NO MISSING PERSON'S ALERT. I asked why, as I was told there would be. She said there was a change in circumstances.
She advised that Andrew does not want to have any connections with us. He wants to live this way. He wants to be left alone. Remember that Andrew has anosognosia. He is not in a mental health state to be making any decisions that could cause him harm.
She said the officers are well aware of Andrew in Division 12 and that there are street navigators who check on the homeless on a first name basis. She was nice but basically told me not to WORRY and not to expect any MISSING PERSON ALERTS. She said that Andrew has an extensive file. That is because I constantly was trying my best to take care of our son. This is the sad stance the Toronto Police are taking. Our hearts were broken!
Just happened to receive this suggestion from Maureen Trask, Advocate Missing Persons this morning. Maureen's son, Daniel went missing and unfortunately was found deceased. She was instrumental in getting the Ontario Missing Person's Act with the assistance of MPP Catherine Fife. Maureen has become a friend over the past six months. She is the facilitator for the online Missing Person's Peer Support Group.
"Respectfully trying to get Andrew the medical attention needed: Many have been helping to keep him safe, healthy and alive on the streets of Toronto to ensure he is treated fairly and with dignity. However, as time goes on trying to achieve this, constantly butting up against institutions that are only accountable for their "piece of the pie"; there is no cohesive, collaborative or humane solution.
I'm starting to wonder: If we stopped making this a serious mental illness issue and started making it a physical issue first, focused on Andrew's physical condition, which continues to deteriorate, would he get better care and attention? If psychiatrists continue to access that Andrew doesn't fit the criteria or Andrew refuses help, what about a compassionate general physician that can address Andrew's physical condition and then once stabilized, arrange a medical transfer between ON and PEI. Does anyone know if this can be arranged through a general physician versus a psychiatrist?
What has been happening over the past months by many standing up to the indignity of Andrew is inspiring, who are calling out indignity. This situation is heart wrenching, and needs whatever it takes to bring Andrew back to health, back to PEI. Would this help to stop the "insanity" defined as doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result? What do you think?"
There are 8027 people who have signed the PLEASE BRING ANDREW BRYENTON HOME PETITION. These are caring and compassionate people from Ontario and P.E.I. that think Andrew should be transferred back home to P.E.I. for hospitalization. Can all these thousands of people be wrong?
I TRULY THANK THE PEOPLE THAT ARE PROVIDING CLOTHING TO ANDREW, HOWEVER, I WOULD APPRECIATE IF YOU WOULD SEND A DESCRIPTION OF THE CLOTHING TO ME, SO I CAN POST IT. BETTER STILL, IF YOU HAVE A PHOTO OF ANDREW WEARING THE CLOTHING PLEASE SEND IT. THANK YOU!
MY BIRTHDAY PRAYER AND WISH
I will be 73 years old on September 21, 2023. I think the best gift I could ever receive is a medical transfer for our son, Andrew Bryenton. God can work MIRACLES. Jesus said, "There are some things that people cannot do, but God can do anything!" Matthew 19:26. Please pray for a MIRACLE to happen this Thursday!
SIGHTINGS TODAY
11:50 a.m. Andrew was walking Rexdale and Queen's Plate, walking eastbound on Rexdale. I asked if Andrew had changed in his appearance. He said no that his hair is oily and that he was wearing the New England Patriot's long sleeve shirt and blue jeans as seen in the last photo at 2995 Weston Road, September 17, 2023.
3:22 p.m. Andrew was walking down Kipling toward Westeway.
3:40 p.m. Andrew was walking on Royal York and Eglinton West walking towards Scarlet and Eglinton.
5:45 p.m. Andrew was walking north on Jane east side towards Tretheway.
6:00 p.m. Andrew was seen by a couple people outside of Shopper's Drug Jane and Tretheway. Kind people got him cold Pepsi and hot pizza from Pizza Nova. He was treated to beef jerky and granola. Thanks so much to everyone. Andrew was in good mood and was friendly and polite. Perhaps he is feeling better today.
Andrew has walked 19.3 km today
LATEST SIGHTING SEPTEMBER 17, 2023
9:38 p.m. Andrew was sleeping in front of 2275 Weston Road. There was a canopy, which may have come in handy, due to rain that was forecast. Andrew is now wearing blue jeans, hat and his long sleeve New England Patriots long sleeve sweater. Looks like he still has the same tattered sneakers. Believe he is carrying a toque in his hand. Thanks to the donor of the new items. A lady who lives in the apartment gave Andrew a drink and covered him over with a blanket for the night! I believe this lady is a mother and I thank her very much for her generosity and compassion.
Update: Andrew slept at 2275 Weston Road until around 4 - 5 a.m. He left in an unknown direction. The lady came out in the middle of the night and put a white blanket on top of the red blanket. He took the both blankets that were given to him as he must have been cold. Many thanks to the two ladies who watched out for Andrew last night and provided him with blankets to keep warm.
We are seeking a compassionate psychiatrist that will assist our son to get a medical transfer home to P.E.I.
A lady associated with Pure Intentions Outreach contacted me yesterday. She will watch for Andrew and offer assistance.
It is our belief that Andrew is exhausted, malnourished and sleep deprived. He may also have stomach and back issues. Andrew needs to be medically examined. There are many people who have experienced our heartache, turmoil and pain.
We believe that Andrew had a bad day yesterday because he was not medically and mentally well.
CATALYST FOR CHANGE
Andrew's heartbreaking story is reaching thousands of people daily. The very public daily postings are opening the eyes of people that never realized the plight of homeless people. Not only that, the daily struggles of loved ones who are trying to care for their loved one.
Andrew's story may be the catalyst necessary to finally challenge the existing mental health system moving forward with mental health reform. The homeless suffer daily for their basic needs that most people take for granted.
Andrew and many others do not have a bed, nutritious meals, clean and proper clothing for weather conditions, and suitable footwear.
When will this unhealthy and inhumane treatment of individuals come to a stop? Will it take countless lives lost before the politicians and medical system step up and make significant changes? You can make a difference by voicing your outrage and opinion. Canada is a wonderful country and proper treatment of the mentally ill should be a given, not something that you have to fight for daily.
Many are suffering and here is an example.
POST RECEIVED: "As someone who was supporting a family member with schizophrenia until his untimely passing, I spoke at length with the coroner, autopsy and police team who all felt that the system needs to change. While they support the rights of individuals to make their own health care choices, they also felt that the pendulum has swung too far. They want people to speak up. It is time for Andrew’s Law."
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I believe the song, "You'll Never Walk Alone" is very fitting for our son, Andrew, and me. The photo of Jesus with a young man looks like Andrew.
Our son's dream to become a Bank Manager was tossed and blown when he became mentally ill five years ago.
Andrew has suffered immensely through snow storms, cold temperatures, darkness, freezing rain, hail, high winds, torrential downpours, thunder, lighting, and heat waves.
But I believe God has walked every step of the way with Andrew over thousands of miles. Andrew was a Youth Leader and Deacon at The First Baptist Church, Charlottetown, P.E.I. He was a much loved and respected Assistant Bank Manager.
Here is the link for You'll Never Walk Alone" by the Letterman:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93KD2fb9EFY
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
PLEASE NOTE
I have missed some sightings because the photo, date, time and location were posted on a Facebook Community Page. Please send PM to me MARLENE BRYENTON - thanks!
I think it best to offer Andrew your generous grocery item. If he politely declines, offer to leave it near Andrew and perhaps he will accept it. It seems Andrew will only accept what he feels he needs at the time and refuses to hoard.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
ADVOCACY
I have been advised to increase advocacy efforts. Please contact Premier Doug Ford at Premier@Ontario.ca 416-327-4300, I left a message. The other numbers were forwarded to this number.
Hon. Sylvia Jones Sylvia.jones@Ontario.ca 416-327-4300
Hon. Michael Tibollo michael.tibollo@ontario.ca 416-327-4300
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
LOBBYING EFFORTS
I have been lobbying since March 2023 for a P.E.I. Missing Person's Act, with the assistance of MLA Susie Dillon. I am happy to announce that the P.E.I. Missing Person's Act became law September 9, 2023.
In addition, I am lobbying for a P.E.I. Community Treatment Order. Dr. Richard O'Reilly, psychiatrist, from London, Ontario believes the New Brunswick Community Treatment Order is the best to both assist the mentally ill and clinicians. In his opinion, it is the gold star, modern standard and should be considered. Deputy Minister, Lisa Thibeau said that she would review it.
I sent this Community Treatment Order to Premier Dennis King, Hon. Mark McLane, Minister of Health, Deputy Minister Lisa Thibeau, MLA Susie Dillon, Dr. Javier Salabarria, Medical Director Mental Health & Addictions, and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Prince Edward Island.
In addition, I am working with MP Sean Casey and former Senator, Diane Griffon, on an Advanced Medical Directive.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
PLEASE NOTE
PLEASE DO NOT CALL ANDREW BY NAME. PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT POLICE UNLESS ANDREW IS IN DISTRESS. MY PROFILE PAGE PROVIDES UPDATES THROUGHOUT THE DAY.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The PLEASE BRING ANDREW BRYENTON HOME TO PEI PETITION has received 8027 signatures so far. These are caring and compassionate residents of Ontario and Prince Edward Island. Here is the link: https://chng.it/TMKMZfHH2p It is fast and free.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
We are most thankful to the people of Ontario who are caring for our son, Andrew, by providing him with food, water, money and clothing as well as giving me daily sightings.
===========================================
MEDIA COVERAGE
The GLOBE AND MAIL story was written by Marcus Gee and published August 25, 2023.
The TORSTAR YORK REGION.COM story written by Kim Zarzour was published Saturday, August 26, 2023. The headline was, "GUT-WRENCHING NIGHTMARE": FROM P.E.I. TO TORONTO MOTHER SEARCHES TO HELP HER HOMELESS SON. The second part was published August 31, 2023. https://twitter.com/kimzarzour/status/1697226704505201017
Kim advised me that Andrew's story was the most read on September 1, 2023!
I was interviewed on CBC Radio and Television by hosts Mitch Cormier and Steve Bruce. I explained the P.E.I. Missing Person's Act and its relevance. I started lobbying for it in March 2023. Thankfully the Act was legislated September 9, 2023.
i+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
MARVIN ROSS BLOG
A blog was written by Marvin Ross entitled, WHY ONTARIO'S MENTAL HEALTH ACT IS DEFICIENT - THE TALE OF A HOMELESS MAN WHO SHOULDN'T BE HOMELESS. Here is the link: https://dawsonross.wordpress.com/
Marvin submitted Andrew's story to the Hamilton Spectator, August 31, 2023. https://twitter.com/dysdads/status/1697221154971279544?s=20
Learn how Toronto has reacted with compassion to the story of Andrew the homeless PEI man with untreated mental illness compared to the sad response to people who suffer from homelessness in Hamilton.
September 11, 2023. My Guest Post appeared in the Marvin Ross Blog. It was titled - A Mother's Plea for Treatment for her Homeless Son.
September 12, 2023. My Guest Post, A Mother's Plea for Her Homeless Son appeared in the WELCOME TO THE NEWSLETTER ON SERIOUS MENTAL ILLNESSES. It also included an article by Dr. David Laing Dawson. The title was, A POSSIBLE REASON WHY MENTALLY ILL AND HOMELESS ANDREW BRYENTON IS REJECTED BY HOSPITAL. It also included an anecdote to the Psychiatry Resident at CAMH.
===========================================
ANDREW'S ANGEL TEAM
I have a team of very gifted and talented individuals who are guiding, encouraging and supporting me daily. The list is extensive.
In particular, I wish to thank Maureen Trask, Advocate for Missing Persons. Maureen's son, Daniel, went missing and unfortunately was discovered deceased. Maureen facilitates a Peer Support Group for Missing Persons. I am a member of that group. Maureen also successfully lobbied for the Ontario Missing Persons Act with the assistance of MPP Catherine Fife.
Also, I wish to thank Kerry McLane, volunteer investigator with the PLEASE BRING ME HOME ORGANIZATION. Kerry helped search for Andrew in Ontario. In addition, Kerry suggested I start the PLEASE BRING ANDREW BRYENTON HOME TO P.E.I. PETITION.
TWITTER ASSISTANCE NEEDED
Joey Killorn's post stated: " I have gone to Twitter on this and lobbying all sorts of people. I am @KillornJoe feel free anyone on this group St Clair West Residents Group to repost, repost and repost again the post on twitter I have put up. When you re post tag politicians, news media and anyone of relevance then please insert the #bringandrewhome2 PEI. Thankyou for all your support that you have given Marlene Bryenton and continued prayers for Andrew, thankyou and Godspeed Thats @KillornJoe X or Twitter." Please also check @M4MHCReform Thank you.
I am a MAMA BEAR and I will protect our son! Furthermore, I WILL NEVER GIVE UP TRYING TO SAVE OUR SON'S LIFE!