Doctor denies racism allegations in Tataskweyak Cree case

A doctor from The Pas is facing a lawsuit filed by a member of the Tataskweyak Cree Nation. The plaintiff, Justin Flett, claims that Dr. Navrup Aery mistook his symptoms of acute appendicitis for a hangover when he sought care in January 2023. Flett's lawsuit, filed on December 19, 2024, alleges that Dr. Aery told him he did not treat hangovers while examining his stomach for pain and nausea. Dr. Aery has denied these accusations and has asked the Court of King's Bench to dismiss the case. In his defense statement, Aery claims Flett had reported heavy drinking before his hospital visit. However, he asserts that Flett did not appear intoxicated. He maintains that his medical care was appropriate based on Flett’s examination results. Flett visited the emergency room at St. Anthony’s General Hospital on January 15, 2023, feeling unwell and dizzy. Aery diagnosed him with non-emergent abdominal pain, suggesting he follow up with his general practitioner if his condition worsened. Flett later traveled to Winnipeg, where doctors confirmed a diagnosis of acute appendicitis. He required urgent surgery after his appendix burst, leading to an infection. Dr. Aery denies any wrongdoing or responsibility for Flett’s subsequent injuries and claims the lawsuit should be dismissed due to insufficient grounds and excessive damage claims.