Mary-Jane Lakota Ali Pierce, an infant born with severe medical issues who was allegedly taken custody of by the Ministry of Children and Family Development against her parents’ wishes, passed away last week.
Pierce, whose cerebral palsy forced her to spend much of her short life hospitalized, came into the public spotlight after her parents, Justin Pierce and Michelle Arnold, accused officials of pressuring them into giving up custody of their daughter.
Her parents also treated her medical issues with CBD oil, a treatment the BC government refused to follow once in their care.
Justin Pierce posted the sad news to the Baby MJ Preemie Princess Journey Home Facebook group, Feb. 20, asking friends and family time to heal after the loss.
“To all my friends and family, I am so sorry to break the news. Mary-Jane Lakota Ali Pierce sadly passed away in my arms yesterday at 7 p.m.,” wrote Pierce.
To all my friends and family, I am so sorry to break the news. Mary-jane Lakota Ali Pierce sadly passed away in my arms…
Posted by Baby MJ Preemie Princess Journey Home on Saturday, 20 February 2016
The news came as a shock to those following Pierce’s journey on Facebook, where, in January, photos were posted of the young child interacting with her parents off of any breathing support.
In February, Pierce had returned to the Children’s Hospital, but was said to be in stable condition.