Retired Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin lends name to arthritis research

VANCOUVER, Nov. 8, 2018 /CNW/ - Arthritis Research Canada is excited to announce that Beverley McLachlin, O.C., P.C., will be the first Honourary Patron of Arthritis Research Canada/Arthrite-recherche Canada. McLachlin served 28 years on the Supreme Court, including 17 years as Chief Justice, and has had a resounding impact on rights and freedoms in Canada.

"Arthritis afflicts many people and diminishes countless lives. I am delighted to be associated with an organization devoted to research into its causes and treatment," said former Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin.

McLachlin became a British Columbia Supreme Court judge six months before the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms took effect. In 1989, Brian Mulroney appointed her to the Supreme Court, and in 2000 Jean Chrétien appointed her Chief Justice.

"Beverley McLachlin has left an impressive mark on our justice system and country as a whole," said Dr. John Esdaile, Arthritis Research Canada's Scientific Director. "We are truly honoured to have her join our organization in an honourary capacity to help promote life-changing arthritis research."

McLachlin's court has touched all Canadians in the 35 years since the Charter of Rights took effect. Most can probably recall a decision from her court that they agreed or disagreed with and certainly debated among friends.

In a Globe and Mail article about McLachlin's life and career, Sean Fine, the paper's justice reporter, wrote: "Her legacy, covering virtually every area of the law – from strong protections of due process for suspected terrorists and criminals, to a new legal footing for Indigenous peoples, to the resounding independence of Canada's highest court, to the vibrant growth of the 'living tree' of constitutional rights – is now part of the country's foundations."

McLachlin has been recognized internationally for her contribution to the law and holds more than 30 honorary degrees.

"Beverley McLachlin is an extraordinary Canadian who has done much to promote and protect the rights of every Canadian through clear interpretation of the law," Esdaile said. "Arthritis Research Canada is truly blessed to have such an accomplished person as its first honourary patron."

About ARTHRITIS RESEARCH CANADA:

Arthritis Research Canada is the largest clinical arthritis research centre in North America. Our mission is to transform the lives of people living with arthritis through research and engagement. Led by world-renowned rheumatologist, Dr. John Esdaile, Arthritis Research Canada's scientific team of over 100 are creating a future where people living with arthritis are empowered to triumph over pain and disability. Within British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec, Arthritis Research Canada is leading research aimed at arthritis prevention, early diagnosis and treatment, and quality of life issues.

SOURCE Arthritis Research Canada