British Columbia Finance Minister Carole James discloses diagnosis of Parkinson's disease; announces plans not to seek re-election

BC Finance Minister and Deputy Premier Carole James has disclosed
a medical diagnosis of Parkinsons, outlining her plans to step aside
from politics at the call of the next election

One of the most popular of provincial political figures from any side of the Legislature disclosed some personal news today, announcing that following a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease that she will take her leave from political life at the call of the next election.

In a statement released today, Carole James, the Finance Minister and Deputy Premier who is among the Premier's most trusted of Ministers outlined the signs that led her to seek a consultation with her doctor, followed by testing that confirmed the Parkinson's diagnosis.

And as has been the case through much of her career, her statement and decision to go public was to serve the public; providing support for families that may face a similar situation today or in the future.

I’m sharing this news now because I believe it’s important to be open about what I am facing. Between 10,000 and 13,000 people in B.C. live with Parkinson’s. Many of those people worry about stigma and what will happen if they reach out for support. If sharing my story can help others, that’s a good thing. As the symptoms of this very visible disease do surface, there is no need to hide them.

Noting how it was life changing news, the Finance Minister further observed that she will serve out her term of office as long as she is able to give 100 per cent towards her work, adding that she will not seek re-election in the next provincial election as the MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill.

Her news will no doubt serve to bring all sides of a very fractious Legislature to rally to her side with best wishes as she faces the challenges ahead.

Sentiments that will also be shared a by many, many British Columbians

Ms. James shared her news through her Social media feeds of Twitter and Facebeook as well.

Her announcement bringing an ever increasing volume of well wishes, a testimony to the impact that the NDP member has had on the political scene over the years.

For more notes on events at the British Columbia Legislature see our archive page here.