Bringing Justin home to rest in peace with Family

Hi, My name Seana, I was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I have always tried to be a happy and supportive person. I tend to keep my struggles to myself and fight my way through them so asking for help is very difficult for me but I don’t really have a choice at this time so here it goes - Myself and my little brother, Justin, had a tough childhood often depending on each other for support during very difficult times creating a strong bond between us. As preteens, Manitoba CFS separated us as we were permanent wards of the province and in many different foster homes as children prior to the separation. This had devastating effects to both of us at the time, but especially for Justin as he struggled with making friends and was often bullied by his peers. I was placed with an amazing family outside of the city and had the opportunity to truly feel supported and loved. Unfortunately, Justin was not given the same type of placement and was transferred to a group home. During his teenage years Justin was introduced to the wrong crowd and got involved with things most people would turn away from as I was no longer there to protect and support him. When he was about 20 years old he decided he wanted to move out west to discover himself and start over. Justin ended up in Vancouver BC often battling demons some families know all too well. Unfortunately, Justin, has not yet made it back to Manitoba and it has been 17 years since I last hugged my little brother.

On December 2, 2024 I was sent a message through Facebook by a friend of his that informed me my little brother Justin had passed away. This friend of his told me it happened on September 3, 2024 due to liver failure and he was only in hospital for Seven days before he passed so it happened very suddenly and unexpectedly. I would often send him messages on Facebook and post on his wall especially on his birthday but hadn’t gotten a reply since 2022.

After many tears and whole lot of phone calls, messages, and emails, I located my brother. Now, three months later, I start the process to have him brought here so he can be with his family once again. Unfortunately, the hospital was unable to locate me during his brief stay and upon his passing they had him cremated and placed in a public cemetery in Surrey BC.

The cost to have him disinterred and respectfully shipped back to Manitoba is pretty steep, especially right before Christmas so the funds I am requesting will help cover those expenses. Also, the only way to have him shipped to me is through Canada Post and they are on strike so I will have to fly to Vancouver to bring him home in time for the holidays.

I want to bring my brother home for Christmas, he was loved very much and deserves to rest in peace surrounded by love and family. If I had known what was happening back in September, I would have been with him and made sure he came home but was not given that opportunity.

Thank you for taking the time to view this, every dollar helps and will go towards finally bringing Justin home! I know times are tough and many people are struggling financially due to our current economy so thank you in advance for you thoughts, prayers and contributions. I appreciate you and I see you!

Happy holidays from my little family to you and yours!