Breton Ability Centre mourns loss of resident
It’s been a difficult week for everyone at the Breton Ability Centre as they cope with the death of a resident who left the facility Sunday evening and never returned.
Arthur Wells, 71, was last seen leaving the residence at approximately 9:30 p.m. on Sunday but he did not return as expected. He was reported missing by centre staff and Monday morning his body was located in Sydney harbour close to shore in Westmount.
Millie Colbourne, CEO of the Breton Ability Centre, said Wells had lived at the centre for 10 years and was a loved member of their community.
“It is devastating for our staff and our residents because we very much are like a family here,” she said. “Art was a wonderful man and he’s certainly going to be missed.”
She said the thoughts of everyone at centre are with Wells’ family.
Colbourne said it wasn’t unusual for Wells to be outside of the centre on his own. “He was one of those (residents) who would go for a walk in the evenings,” she said. “He was very independent. Most of the people here, they do come and go and are very much part of the community.”
Colbourne said there are social workers on staff to help residents through the grieving process and there are also supports in place for staff who may want to talk about the loss.
Colbourne said they plan to have some type of memorial service for Wells at the centre, and many also plan to attend the funeral. A Cape Breton Regional Police spokesperson said Wednesday they are still awaiting the results of the autopsy to confirm the cause of death. Police do not suspect foul play but their investigation is ongoing.
The Breton Ability Centre provides care and support to people with developmental, mental or physical disabilities.