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In this episode of Freedom Feature, host Barry Bussey speaks with Roger Foley, a Canadian man who has been hospitalized for approximately ten years despite wanting to return to his own fully accessible apartment. Foley explains that he remains institutionalized not because of medical necessity, but because Ontario’s health system has repeatedly denied him access to self‑directed home care funding. He argues that the current model forces people with severe disabilities into monopolized agency care, stripping them of choice, safety, and consistency, while consuming large portions of funding through administration rather than frontline care.
Foley recounts distressing experiences with inadequate and unsafe home care, as well as coercive and demeaning treatment during his prolonged hospital stay, including repeated suggestions of medical assistance in dying instead of providing the supports he needs to live independently. He contrasts Canada’s system with international models where self‑directed funding is recognized as a right and shown to improve outcomes while reducing costs.
Despite these hardships, Foley emphasizes his desire to live, create, and contribute. He shares how he is channeling his creativity—through music, merchandise, and fundraising initiatives—to independently finance the care required to finally return home. The conversation frames his case as a broader human‑rights issue, calling on Canadians to value the lives of people with disabilities and support community‑based, person‑centered care.
Please note the views expressed by the individual(s) in this video are their own, and do not necessarily reflect the views or principles of the First Freedoms Foundation.
Find out more about Roger’s situation and how you can help by visiting: https://rogerfoley.com/
