THEY WILL BE HAPPY AGAIN - IT STARTS TODAY / 605

Josiah is six months old and he has been living with Zabeth and Paul for the past month.

His siblings, Kent, Baden and Bethany have been visiting the family home off and on for a few days and nights at a time as part of the reintegration programme agreed upon by the Baynes and the Ministry of Children and Family Development.

BUT, TODAY IS THE DAY!!! YES TODAY. 
BY NOON TODAY, THURSDAY AUG 25, 2011, the eldest three children will be received into the Bayne home and care. The Bayne Family will have their chance for a restart.

Zabeth and Paul were so excited last evening when we chatted. They wondered whether they would be able to sleep, and perhaps they haven't slept much but their pensive rest will have been filled with happy thoughts. The children too have been counting down the days. This is right and good.

It was close to four years ago when a quake rocked their world culminating in newborn Bethany being retained by the Ministry and the two older but still little boys being apprehended as well. It's old news now and I won't retell it this time. The Bayne path became rockier before it ever was evened out to this point.

Bethany cozy on the couch

This past Father's Day

Soon this happy little Josiah who was born early in 2011 will be joined by three other smiling children looking forward to their familiar places and possessions at 'home.' Soon the two boys will don their new school uniforms and be ready for first day at class in the school where they are now enrolled. Normalcy may come easier to the children than to Paul and Zabeth whose lives were child-empty for so long. I am sure that the children may ask about their foster mom and family. The Baynes will need to work through that. I am sure the daily demands of four children plus a business work schedule will require degrees of patience and stamina from Paul and Zabeth that are taxing. I expect that the accumulated tolerance and fortitude acquired through these past four years has equipped them fairly well. And they themselves are made of the right stuff.

Zabeth and Josiah

I believe that they will be a very happy and contented family.

On Saturday, family and friends in great numbers will join them in a grand party celebrating the occasion of this reunion and taking time to thank God whom the Baynes ultimately credit with this result.   

I MAY BE WRONG BUT I DOUBT IT / 588

I have written about the Baynes for two years. I will stop soon. I only recently wrote several posts about Derek Hoare and his daughter Ayn. I won't need to write for him because he has an army at work for him.

The Bayne case differs remarkably from that of Derek Hoare and daughter Ayn. Bethany Bayne was removed from parental custody when she was seven weeks old. She had been injured. Her two sibling brothers were removed at the same time. Because of Bethany's injuries the Bayne case launched amid solemn suspicion that one of the parents was a child abuser. That Ministry suspicion was generated and fueled by medical opinion. RCMP investigated but dismissed the matter. MCFD's suspicion was unrelenting. Derek's daughter, nine-year old Ayn is autistic and upon her removal the hospital examination reported no evidence of harm or abuse but rather good health. Her two sibling brothers have been permitted to remain with their father. Ayn was removed from her father’s care and custody when she wandered away from her home one day as many autistic children are prone to do.

THE GROWING CHILDREN / 513

Grown up dressed up Bethany

The time has not flown by but it has passed. So much time. Bethany is showing that she, like her mom, will be a tall girl. She is into her fourth year of life now. Doesn't she look pretty? Yes she is fortunate to have had caring foster parents.

CHRISTIE'S FINAL SUBMISSION installment 8of10 Profiles of Paul and Zabeth / 496

Paul and Zabeth Bayne spent 2010 in court trying to prevent MCFD from taking forever, their three children who were removed on October 22, 2007. The judge did not return their children to them but let MCFD keep the children for 6 more months. Doug Christie is their legal counsel.

Yesterday you read points 18-20 from the transcript of Doug Christie's final SUBMISSION IN RESPONSE to Finn Jensen's closing summation delivered on Nov 4, 2010. This is the eighth installment of quotations from this public document. Submissions and Analysis, points 21-26 in Christie's own words…. "Mr. Jensen tries to facilitate and to be conciliatory."

THE JUDGE INTENDS RETURNING THE CHILDREN / Part 471 / For Love and For Justice / Zabeth and Paul Bayne

I continue to be grateful for the readership response to this GPS blog. It is kind of you to stay informed here. Many of you are media personnel, social workers, Ministry employees. It is imperative that the seriousness of the breach of justice be understood, acknowledged and addressed in a virtuous manner.

Paul and Zabeth Bayne received from Judge Thomas Crabtree an 'opportunity' as he termed it. Ostensibly it was a nudge to the Ministry and to the Baynes to do something that has not worked for 3.5 years – that is, work together to bring the children home to the Baynes.

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 37 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

Five Years Ago - The Hughes Inquiry into MCFD Performance

There were grave concerns about the management of the Ministry of Children and Family Development when in November 2005 a Panel was named to review B.C.’s Child Protection System.

A Vancouver Sun article of December 29, 2005 was titled ‘BC Foster Children at Risk.’ That piece mentioned that the beleaguered MCFD was undergoing a sweeping review by Judge Hughes following the recent deaths of two children in care and the mishandling of child death reviews. There was an alarming shortage of foster homes. MCFD was acquiring more children than it had foster parents and homes. The Liberal government had restructured MCFD and the number of foster homes was reduced further. To its credit the Liberal regime sought other alternatives like mediation to allow children to remain with parents or relatives or be adopted. Nevertheless, overcrowding in some foster homes resulted. While so many foster parents regard their roles as a responsible trust, it is not reckless to imagine that recruitment standards for foster parents became relaxed in face of the need. Hence the title of the Vancouver Sun article and the suggestion of risk to children in foster care.

The panel’s mandate was to independently examine B.C.’s system of oversight, public reporting and advocacy with respect to the protection of children and youth.
Panel members were:
• Ted Hughes Q.C. (Chair)
• Grand Chief Ed John, former B.C. Minister for Children and Families and former law professor
• Jane Morley Q.C., lawyer and mediator, Child and Youth Officer
• Terry Smith, Chief Coroner, served with the RCMP for 35 years
• Joyce Preston, former Child and Youth Advocate, former director of social planning for Vancouver
• Ms. Maureen Nicholls, former commissioner of the Public Service Employee Relations Commission
• Thomas Gove, a provincial court judge who was commissioner of the Gove Inquiry into Child Protection 10 years ago, was available to engage in discussions with the panel if requested to do so by the panel.

A compelling term of reference was the review of deaths of children. The panel reviewed the roles and responsibilities of the Ministry of Children and Family Development, the Child and Youth Officer, the Chief Coroner, the Ombudsman, the Public Guardian and Trustee as they related to advocacy for children and youth and to monitoring and public reporting on the government’s performance in protecting and providing services.

It is the public reporting that chiefly interests me. That honesty and sincerity is essential to increasing trust and reducing fear. It appears that another review is required. Perhaps Mary Polak can generate that internally. I am sure she will want to as she acquits her responsibility to the best of her ability.

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 36 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

Doug Christie is representing them and he stands for truth, freedom and justice.

He is not the conventional lawyer. He has a nation wide reputation. Mr. Doug Christie has come alongside this troubled couple when all their resources were consumed and they were left without legal representation in contesting for custody of their own three children. His involvement makes this story take on a new and hopeful dimension.

Mr. Christie has many critics, understandably because he has chosen to defend some of the most controversial defendants in Canadian history. Because he specializes in cases where the issues are freedom of speech and individual rights about which Christie is passionate, he has represented James Keegstra, Ernst Zundel, John Ross Taylor and Malcolm Ross before the Supreme Court of Canada, David Ahenakew before the Saskatchewan Court of Queen’s Bench and the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal, and Lady Jane Birdwood before the Queen’s Bench and the Court of Appeal in London, England. Mr. Christie also draws fire because respecting his personal liberty and his own right to free speech; he speaks against big government, and speaks for an independent western Canada and speaks against Ottawa deciding unsuitable immigration, two official languages, banking, international trade and unpatriotic foreign policy. Sure he sounds like a separatist. He views himself as a reformer for whom a new nation of Western Canada is the only option. His website Western Canada Concept details these views. He founded the Western Block Party in 2002.
He writes a blog called Authenticity
This is one of many YouTube videos he produces and this one is called 'Overcoming Threats to Freedom' Once on that YouTube site, you will find a list of his online commentaries.

So why should the Baynes be comfortable with this renowned lawyer given the publicity he has garnered to himself? He has answered his critics with comments on his website. Here is a sample of the thinking that inspires hope that he will do his utmost to assist his clients.

“I know defending Dr. Ahenakew, Mr. Keegstra, Mr. Zundel and others has made me a target for my enemies. It is a lever to trick people into condemning me. But I reasoned that if I did not have the courage to defend the unpopular, free speech would die and Western Canada would be as corrupt and shallow as Canada has become.”

“I find bullies repulsive and gang violence most offensive. The one thing I find in common among the thousands of people I've defended in the past 35 years as a lawyer, was the fact they needed a defender because they were weak. I became their defender so they would not stand alone against the mob.”

In reference to the challenges he has faced he writes.
“After the many clients I have represented, I have been perceived as a right-wing extremist, Nazi, or anti-Semite. These smear words are inaccurate, unfair and obscure in their meaning. That's how smear words work. …I am an individualist. I assert my right to be measured as an individual and I recognize every other person's right to be so assessed, as well. “

“My major challenge is to have myself and my thoughts and words assessed on their individual merits, rather than being stereotyped, slandered and written-off as most people in the media have already done. I am not in fact as I am represented by my enemies. I am a complex person with an essentially altruistic, generous, intelligent nature, upon which is superimposed a genuine desire to be a follower and servant of Jesus Christ.” … “I seek to build a better world for my people (Western Canadians) and all mankind. My major challenge in brief is to be taken seriously after what has been said about me.”

“It has liberated me from fear of what others think. I know the truth and the truth knows me. I serve the God of Truth. The opinions of men are sadly and perpetually misinformed in this world and there is little or nothing I can do about it.”

“So come what may, I will stand for truth, freedom and justice. These three are really one, combined like the Holy Trinity.”

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids/ PLEASE SIGN FOR THE BAYNE FAMILY!

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 35 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

BETHANY
Bethany is a little older than two years of age. Bethany Bayne was born August 3, 2007. She was a few weeks old when she was removed from her mother’s and father’s home and she has not been back since then. She has been in the custody of the Ministry of Children and Family Development and in the care of foster parents within a childcare system that does not require all foster parents to be licensed or registered.

Bethany was born prematurely. At the time of the accident that her parents reported in late September 2007, Bethany’s tiny body was dealing with the rigors of this early introduction to the world. She was anemic at birth and had milk intolerance like her two brothers when they were born. Bethany’s slow progress was interrupted by a head trauma caused by the accidental tumble of her small brother as he came around a corner into the room in which Bethany was lying on a blanket on the floor. Zabeth witnessed this mishap. Of course the incident was alarming and Paul and Zabeth delivered CPR as they rushed her to emergency at Fraser Valley Hospital in Hope. At the hospital she was unable to breathe and unresponsive after vomiting and she was hooked to oxygen and monitors. The hospital was unequipped for infants so she was sent home after a one hour observation. Some hours later her parents returned her to Fraser Valley Hospital because she was not moving her limbs, was not feeding or crying. She was transferred to (MSA) Matsqui Sumas Abbotsford Hospital where an examination failed to find anything wrong with her and she was released next day. Three days later she was taken back to Fraser Valley Hospital because she was vomiting and not crying and she was diagnosed with constipation and released. She was still in trouble.

In early October Zabeth and Paul took their baby to Chilliwack Hospital where she was given a bowel x-ray which was inconclusive. She was transferred to MSC Hospital where from October 6th to the 9th her increased head circumference was noted and a CT scan considered but not done. Her monitors indicated breathing stoppage a couple of times. She was checked, stabilized and was sent home. Then on the 13th of October the Ministry of Children (MCFD) now instructed Zabeth and Paul together with their doctor to take all three children to the Apple Clinic. Of all things, a neighbour, concerned about the children’s physical sizes, had reported that the children were malnourished and neglected. Their family doctor later termed this citizen’s call as malicious. The stresses continued. Three days later mom and dad took Bethany to the Hope Clinic which then ordered a CT scan which was accomplished at Chilliwack Hospital. The scan results were sent to Sick Children’s and finally after all that had preceded, the scan results were reviewed by two doctors, one of whom delivered the life changing diagnosis.

This doctor was knowledgeable with Shaken Baby Syndrome Research. Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is, in essence, a medical diagnosis based on the presence of a diagnostic triad: retinal bleeding, bleeding in the protective layer of the brain, and brain swelling. Bethany had all three. She was a sick baby girl. A well informed doctor when faced with an injured child with no evidence of physical abuse other than the triad of SBS symptoms will consider it his/her duty to be cautious for the sake of both the child and the parents. This respected physician diagnosed Bethany as, what else, a Shaken Baby. A Shaken Baby has to have a Shaker, and who would be the most likely Shaker? One or both of the parents.

The consequence was the removal of all three children from the Bayne home, a harrowing arrest of Paul and Zabeth, resultant charges of aggravated assault on both of them; the unpleasant interrogations that insinuated that they, loving parents of two little sons, chose to maliciously shake up a baby daughter who was two months old. No wonder Zabeth went into alarming shock and a brief hospitalization.

What was learned only later was that Bethany had osteopenia of prematurity. Osteopenia is a decrease in the amount of calcium and phosphorus in the bone. This can cause bones to be weak and brittle, and increases the risk for broken bones. While in the womb, fetal activity increases during the last 3 months of pregnancy. This activity is thought to be important for bone development. During the last 3 months of pregnancy, large amounts of calcium and phosphorus are transferred from the mother to the baby so that the baby's bones will grow. A premature infant may not receive the proper amount of calcium and phosphorus needed to form strong bones. Most very premature infants have limited physical activity, which may also contribute to weak bones. There may be an increased risk for fractures throughout the first year of life for very premature infants with osteopenia of prematurity. As for prognosis, fractures will usually heal well on their own with gentle handling, and increased dietary intakes of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D. However, Bethany was also lactose intolerant (couldn’t digest milk product) and therefore lacking in vitamin D. Lactose intolerance is sometimes seen in premature babies whereas children who are born at full term generally do not show signs of lactose intolerance until they are at least 3 years old.

Today Bethany is doing well. The shunt was removed several months ago. Her vision which was an earlier concern is normal according to a disclosure report. Perhaps due to her premature birth she is developmentally average. At her age she is using a fork and spoon and cup. She is understanding of most conversation but her speech is below average and includes only a few words like “Daddy” “Mommy” “doggy” “milk” “cookie” “amen” “bumpa” for Grandpa and “Gammy” for Grandma.

Finally after two years Bethany is with her two brothers. Bethany was moved recently into the same care home as her two brothers Kent and Baden. That's a good thing relationally. She knows them because of occasional family visits together but it is uncertain that she understands that they are family.


http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids/

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 34 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

I interact via email each day with Zabeth and Paul. On Monday I wrote to her and didn't hear back until evening. I was gripped by what she wrote to me privately and asked for her permission to share these thoughts. This is what it feels like to be them.

"We didn't get to see our children on Sunday, but did see them today from 1:00 until 4:00. We are emotionally drained before and afterwards as it is so traumatic for all of us to meet under supervision and then have no choice but "walk away". Our children don't understand and we shudder to think of the possible damage to them emotionally with their stability, security and the feelings of being wanted by their parents. It is barbaric to continually withhold a family's God ordained privilege to be together.

All of our hearts weep silently during the visit as we all try to relish the moments we have together. After we leave, the tears freely flow as they are now when I write. It is helpful to share with you, as you understand the joy we had when we had our children with us and how we treasured every moment. We kept daily diaries on our little ones and what may have seemed unremarkable to an observer was a miracle to us as they grew. Now after hearing our story and reading what is in our hearts, I know you understand a little of the pain that is embedded in our hearts, but not without hope.

Like Abraham laid Isaac on the altar we have had to lay our children before our Lord to protect and care for and as we do we anticipate His intervening hand to walk all of us down that mountain again."

Zabeth's reference to Abraham and his son Isaac is an allusion to the sacrifice God called Abraham to make as he tested Abraham's faith. The story is a classic, because Abraham's obedient faith empowers him to do the unthinkable, offer his own son as an actual sacrifice in Old Testament style. It's horrific in the extreme. It's unimaginable. It's a poignant story because Isaac is the offspring from whom God's promises to Abraham concerning a family and a future should come. Abraham realized that if God demanded this, He could also raise Isaac to life again if necessary to affect the promises. God keeps his promises. There on that distant mountain top, God stopped Abraham an instant before the act was accomplished and provided for the father and the son, a ram to be presented as the needed offering.

We don't present such offerings any more. Christ became that for us, is the Christian belief. The Heavenly Father making the same sacrifice of his own Son. Christians like Zabeth and Paul offer themselves as a daily living sacrifice so they can honour God by their living. That's commendable isn't it? Clearly Zabeth and Paul draw strength from the application of this ancient text to their own present hardship - knowing that God can supply what their children need and what they themselves need right now, and ultimately redeem this situation and give them back their family. God has given them you and other advocates, and a sympathetic lawyer and other supportive resource people, and medical professionals, and His own deep abiding presence.

Please sign the petition and pass it on. It's free, no donation required, just do it!
"Bayne Campaign for Justice Petition"

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 33 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

SOCIAL WORKERS EXPRESS CONCERN ABOUT MINISTRY OF CHILDREN AND FAMILY DEVELOPMENT

I have just read the submission of the BC Association of Social Workers to the BC Liberal Government with respect to the Budget 2010. The Association does not merely request - it reprimands.

When serious criticism of the B.C. Ministry of Children and Family Development comes from an entire association of people inside the Ministry establishment, it is very significant. I am aware that their frustration and concern stems from the shortcomings they see, the reduced funding, the increased workloads and the suffering reputation of child care services generally. Yet the expressions of dismay in this presentation resemble the faults that generate heartache for people like Paul and Zabeth Bayne. At the same time the concerns you read here help to explain why the Baynes have still not been united with their three children. The declarations are disturbing.

You can read the entire submission at this title, THE HIGH COST OF NOT CARING Submission to the 2010 BC Budget Consultation. I am giving you some excerpts that stand out to me.

“We have witnessed the rapid erosion and dismantling of the child welfare and child and family serving systems and its toll on our most vulnerable people in BC.

“Since 2001, the Ministry of Children and Family Development has been reeling chaotically, confused, and stumbling in the dark. The child protection, childcare and child and family supporting systems have been cut to the bone. The entire system of care for BC’s children and families is inadequately funded. We have seen many tragic examples of how MCFD is failing to meet its basic child protection mandate through systemic inadequacy.”

“The Representative for Children and Youth reported the following in her recently released Annual Report: ‘In 2008/09 in BC, approximately 14,500 children and youth lived outside their parental home. About 60 per cent of those were in care and more than half were Aboriginal children and youth. In addition, nearly 4,400 children and youth lived out of parental placements in the home of a relative, over 600 were on youth agreements and 188 were in kith and kin arrangements. In some instances, government takes on full parental roles for these children and youth. In others it is not so clear where responsibility and accountability rests for the day-to-day care of children, their guardianship or their well-being. Many of these children are in limbo and my Office continues to advocate for a stronger system of supports for them, with proper guardianship.’” (p.5)

“MCFD consistently fails to respond to independent reports regarding child safety, well being and monitoring, such as the many reports released by the Representative for Children and Youth.”

“The four most cited reasons for (social workers) leaving MCFD’s child protection front lines include “unmanageable caseloads, a lack of confidence in all levels of leadership and management, high stress levels, and a lack of preventative and supportive resources for children and families.”

“There is internal organizational chaos and confusion as people bump from regions and teams are reconfigured. With the loss of auxiliary social workers, children at-risk and families needing support are pushed to the side for more “restructuring.” Caseloads are not theoretical; they are children at risk of being abused and neglected, and in many areas around BC the state is neither monitoring nor supporting them, except for emergency triaging and reactive, crisis-based band aid work until their files can be closed.”

“We ask the BC government to dedicate the 2010 budget to the interests of dignity, human rights and respect for all our citizens.”

To encourage MCFD to return three children to their parents, perhaps you will sign a petition at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids/
If you yourself have not yet read or signed this petition please take a brief moment now.
"Bayne Campaign for Justice Petition"
Join the growing number of people who are signing a petition to have the children returned to Paul and Zabeth. It's free and takes less than a minute of your time. Please sign your full name, even though the anonymous option is offered. The name counts.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids?e

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 32 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

SPREAD THE WORD
Perhaps you can join me in making a difference by encouraging the Bayne family and exposing this case to the public. If you have a business network or a church network or a neighbourhood network of friends to whom you feel comfortable sending this note, please use it. Please feel free to cut and to paste it or modify the words to suit your circumstance.

”I have wanted to share this burden with you. I am being drawn in by sorrow and becoming an advocate for Paul and Zabeth Bayne. In 2007 a routine hospital visit became a nightmare from which the family has not awoken. They have three children, two boys and the youngest, a daughter. At two months of age Bethany was lying on a blanket on the floor when one of her brothers accidentally fell on her. There was swelling of her head. At the hospital the immediate suspicion was Baby Shaking which was reported. As a protection for the children, the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development removed their children on October 22, 2007. The children have still not been returned. The bureaucratic and legal entanglements and delays would mystify you. The couple has contacted every possible source of help without success. They have sold their home and her grand piano to pay for legal fees. They have given up day jobs to work as night janitors so they can visit the children briefly during day hours. Their story was aired on CBC and Global but got nowhere. A new high profile lawyer, Doug Christie is volunteering time and we have hope that this family can be reunited. Thank you”
You can read this story at http://www.ronunruhgGPS.blogspot.com
Perhaps you would sign a petition at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids/

If you yourself have not yet read or signed this petition please take a brief moment now.
"Bayne Campaign for Justice Petition"
Join the growing number of people who are signing a petition to have the children returned to Paul and Zabeth. No donation required. It's free and takes less than a minute of your time. Please sign your full name, even though the anonymous option is offered. The name counts.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids?e

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 31 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

Such an Easy Resolution is Such a Leap of Faith for MCFD

Never have Paul or Zabeth said they do not want the responsibility of raising their three children.
Never has Zabeth regretted giving birth to her children.
Never has Paul wished that he didn’t have children.
Never have they expressed that they are glad that the children are not in their home.

On the contrary, for two years all that Paul and Zabeth have thought about and all they have lived for was their children, seeing them on visitation days and attempting to do all within their power to persuade the Ministry of Children and Family Development that does have the custody of the Bayne children, that they, the birth parents, are capable, responsible and loving parents with whom these three children will be completely safe and happy.

But a handful of MCFD staff has not been convinced. They have not been persuaded that the medical evidence of Shaken Baby is not conclusive in Bethany’s case. They have not been won over by alternate explanations for the head trauma. After two years of observation of parental faithfulness in difficult conditions, they cannot let go of their concern that these parents are a threat to their children. This is in spite of all assessment and investigatory reports that maintain no evidence exists that the boys were ever harmed or that they might be harmed by these parents.

I still believe that with a fresh and unbiased examination of all the Bayne file information, these officials will make the decision to authorize the return not only of Paul and Zabeth’s two sons but their little daughter. Two year old Bethany must be allowed to go home. She will be secure and happy and loved in the care and custody of her parents who have loved her before she even entered this world.

Please Don't Hesitate to Sign this Petition. Click the Link below..

"Bayne Campaign for Justice Petition"
Join the growing number of people who are signing a petition to have the children returned to Paul and Zabeth. It's free and takes less than a minute of your time. Please sign your full name, even though the anonymous option is offered. The name counts.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids?e

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 30 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

A Guilty Bystander

I did not want to be a ‘guilty bystander’ - a Thomas Merton expression from the title of one of his books, 'Conjectures of a Guilty Bystander.' I could easily be that - a guilty bystander. I am sure there have been other occasions in life when I have stood by and done nothing to assist or aid. This time however, the dilemma of a young family caught in the grip of a regulatory system for which time and emotion seems unimportant, demanded my attention.

Paul and Zabeth Bayne have been living a nightmare for two years. John Grisham could script a narration like this. That’s what this is. A work of fiction based on real life. The fiction consists of what was alleged about the Baynes. Real life unfolded this way.

Two small boys are playing in the house. An infant daughter lies quietly on a blanket on the floor. Suddenly a burst of energy around a corner and one boy tumbling uncontrolled, falls on the baby girl. The baby settles down. Only after some time do symptoms appear in the baby's behaviour that concern the parents. Over a period of several days, the baby is taken to several hospitals because of inconclusive examinations. At the last hospital a diagnosis is rendered – Shaken Baby Syndrome – the opinion of one doctor. Someone shook the baby. The wheels of Child Protection are set into motion. Reps from the Ministry of Children appear at the Bayne household and take custody of the three children. Their mother and father with tearful and terrified alarm are arrested on the charge of aggravated assault and are individually interrogated. She is briefly hospitalized because of the trauma of the ordeal. The police conclude there is no evidence to proceed with this charge. It is dropped, and their arrest record expunged. There is even a police apology. However, the Ministry of Children has the Bayne children. Regardless of the police judgment, Paul and Zabeth are still considered a danger to their children in the minds of the district child protection group. Their story of the accidental collision of one child on top of another is discounted in favour of the one doctor’s Shaken Baby diagnosis. Even though Child Protection espouses the objective of returning children to parents when it seems wise and proper, the proverbial wheels of the Child Protection agency turn slowly, very slowly. The boys are permitted by the Ministry to live with the grandparents. One entire year passes during which time, Paul and Zabeth have been compelled to acquire legal help. Lawyers cost money – lots of money. The legal efforts prove futile and eventually the Bayne home has liens put against it to pay for legal fees. The Ministry learns that another medical assessment of the baby girl suggests she suffers from a rare metabolic condition known as Glutaric Aciduria which resembles shaken baby syndrome. This revelation could absolve the parents of suspicion. The parents are not informed of this condition nor does the Ministry proactively provide medical treatment for this condition. Someone in control of the case either doubts the alternate option or does not care enough to press for truth. The parents learn about it from a caregiver privy to the information. More time passes. Now it is the spring and 18 months have passed when Paul and Zabeth are also allowed to live in the grandparents' home under supervised arrangement. The Ministry has received numerous letters of personal support and character commendation for the Baynes. Regularly for months a protest group holds placards outside the premier’s downtown office to ask for the return of the children without apparent success. The Bayne’s tortuous story gains public attention and television journalists clamour for their chronicle but after the news is aired, without announcing their arrival, the Ministry people accompanied by police, interrupt one of the small boy’s birthday party in the Grandparents’ home. They seize the Bayne boys and once again have custody of all three. The Ministry justifies this action on the basis that the parents contravened an agreement that curtailed media contact. Little attention is paid to the fact that the interview was agreed to and videod days before the Baynes learned that they could live in the same house as the boys. The Network scheduled the airing time which happened to be after the custody arrangement. After some time even the Ministry's lawyer says there is no ground for holding the boys and advises the Ministry to return the sons. The Ministry disregards the advice. The Ministry is moving this to court, but again slowly, very slowly. Unable to afford any more lawyers the Baynes are met by a high profile Canadian lawyer who expresses willingness to represent them. It is now over two years that the Ministry in apparent violation of its own governing ACT and without an updated court authorization beyond the initial order has held three children from their parents.

That is not the end of the story. It is still being written. You have only finished half of this narrative “The Bayne Campaign for Justice.” You are going to help to write the conclusion.
Today, please go to the petition page to sign for them, and send this link to your friends.
Please Don't Hesitate to Sign this Petition. Click this Link or the one below..

"Bayne Campaign for Justice Petition"
Join the growing number of people who are signing a petition to have the children returned to Paul and Zabeth. It's free and takes less than a minute of your time. Please sign your full name, even though the anonymous option is offered. The name counts.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids?e

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 29 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

HELP THEM TO HOPE

I have told you before that Paul and Zabeth are people with a personal faith in God and are committed Christians. Faith plays a role in coping with heartache as great as theirs has been and still is. In fact they would say that without a belief that Someone beyond this realm is looking after their life and their interests, they would despair. Almost everyone in an elected or hired position of authority that might influence this case and to whom they have appealed, has declined, or not answered, or found a conflict of commitments or protocol. But they truly believe that God has introduced into their lives some people who are vitally interested in helping them and who can speak for them to present a reasonable claim for the return of their children. Further, they believe that this agony has extended this long for purposes not yet revealed but that far exceed the expectations of the Ministry of Children and Family Development.

They say that they must purposely entrust their children to God’s care each day and they are comforted in knowing that so many people are praying for them and their children. If not for this comfort they would be overcome with worry not only for the children’s present emotional and physical well being but for the ultimate outcome of this hard passage in their lives. They admit to losing hope or composure at times when they have to say goodbye yet again or they pass a room where the children might be.

They have told me. “We have made each visit with our children one that contains Bible story time, prayer before snacks, prayer before we part, encouraging them to talk to Jesus when they are afraid, lonely, wanting to come home, etc. Time is so short and we do see evidence of the foster homes set of ethics and values. What we had wanted for our children in training as well as in preserving their innocence and growth feels so threatened, but again we have given our children to the Lord to care for and He does watch over them. We will continue to do all we can to foster their love for Jesus and their trust in Him to bring them home.”
While you sip your coffee today, please go to the petition page to sign for them, and send this link to your friends.
Please Don't Hesitate to Sign this Petition. Click the Link below..

"Bayne Campaign for Justice Petition"
Join the growing number of people who are signing a petition to have the children returned to Paul and Zabeth. It's free and takes less than a minute of your time. Please sign your full name, even though the anonymous option is offered. The name counts.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids?e

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 24 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

Zabeth Bayne – Concert Pianist
Piano has been sold to pay legal fees. House is gone to pay legal fees. Children are gone. She needs them. They need her. She wants to have them returned to her. She is planning to play at some fund raising concerts if they can be arranged. She can play… I have heard her.

Zabeth trained with the Royal Conservatory of Music program and completed her ARCT with them. Zabeth has studied with many teachers including:
Dietmar Schmeuker, who is a pianist who has travelled and performed internationally. He is to be her partner at the dual piano concerts;
Alice Enns, who is a professor at UBC;
Walter Bresch who is a pianist, performer and composer.

ZABETH has been a member of the British Columbia Registered Music Teachers Association and has taught piano for over eighteen years. Her music instruction includes music history, harmony, counterpoint, analysis and rudiments of music and she teaches styles that include classical, improvisation, popular, religious and jazz.

ZABETH has taught private and class lesson at Carillon Music, Regent Academy, White Rock School of Music and also started her own studio, The Kristensen Music Studio and also The Hope Art and Music School. The latter School was terminated when this family tragedy erupted in the autumn of 2007.

ZABETH has adjudicated at international and regional competitions at the request of Regent Academy and provided piano accompaniment for solo instrumentalists and vocalists and choirs. Zabeth has worked with a number of churches as pianist and has assisted with many productions for local churches and schools.

ZABETH has performed with chamber groups including members from the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, UBC Orchestra and other classical artists. Zabeth has also performed duets and solo piano on many occasions.

Zabeth is seeking to raise some funds through piano concerts to finance this legal action. She has a friend who is also an accomplished pianist and together they will perform an extraordinary evening of dual piano. Of course she requires a venue or two. It helps when the venue has a grand piano and the musicians are required only to bring one other grand in for such an occasion. The idea is that attendance will be by donation.

One venue is scheduled but one concert is not enough. Time will soon run out in 2009 because Christmas events will prioritize so many venues. It would be a marvelous provision if there are other churches or organizations that will offer to host and publicize a fund raising event for the Baynes. If you have an interest in this please contact Zabeth and Paul Bayne at pzandkids@gmail.com .

"Bayne Campaign for Justice Petition"
Join the growing number of people who are signing a petition to have the children returned to Paul and Zabeth. It's free and takes less than a minute of your time. Please sign your full name, even though the anonymous option is offered. The name counts.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids?e

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 23 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

Paul and Zabeth Bayne have been petitioning to have their children returned to them for the past two years. Sadly they cannot expect grace from the Ministry of Children and Family Development and they will be compelled to go to a court of law to reclaim the custody of children. They have yet to have that day.

Nevertheless their efforts have cost the Baynes so much. They once owned a new home in Hope, B.C. but they have lost that. Liens were put against the house by two lawyers working for them previously. They are now renting in Surrey. They have not been able to sustain day jobs and instead are working as night custodians so they can be free in day hours to visit their children during brief windows of time. Zabeth, a concert pianist, was compelled to sell her grand piano in order to generate funds to assist them with legal debts incurred by their struggle with a government agency which is lacking in the very commodity it espouses to us as tax payers – compassion.

This case will go to court in the new year - 2010. It appears to be the only course of action by which justice will be realized for them.

Zabeth is seeking to raise some funds through piano concerts to finance this legal action. She has a friend who is also an accomplished pianist and together they will perform an extraordinary evening of dual piano. Of course she requires a venue or two. It helps when the venue has a grand piano and the musicians are required only to bring one other grand in for such an occasion. At the present time, a contemporary church called Tapestry Church in Richmond has offered to host one concert in November. The idea is that attendance will be by donation.

One concert is not enough. Time will soon run out in 2009 because Christmas events will prioritize so many venues. It would be a marvelous provision if there are other churches or organizations that will offer to host and publicize a fund raising event for the Baynes. If you have an interest in this please contact Zabeth and Paul Bayne at pzandkids@gmail.com .

"Bayne Campaign for Justice"
Join the growing number of people who are signing a petition to have the children returned to Paul and Zabeth. It's free and takes less than a minute of your time. Please sign your full name, even though the anonymous option is offered. The name counts.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids?e

Zabeth and Paul Bayne – Part 22 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

The Abbreviated Version - Reason Enough to sign the petition

Over two years ago Zabeth, mother of Bethany who was two months old at the time, saw her second son Baden, fall on top of Bethany. Zabeth was coming from her bedroom which opened directly to the living room. Baden was running around a corner at the other end of the room when he stumbled and fell over her baby. Bethany had been resting on a blanket on the floor to the side of the room. That location had seemed to Zabeth to be a safe placed for Bethany to lie as the boys played in their own bedroom. Her husband Paul was assisting with the dinner Zabeth had begun in the kitchen and periodically he came in and out of the living room to check on Bethany. Zabeth had left the kitchen to go to her bedroom for a few minutes to express milk following a normal feeding of Bethany. While the accidental fall and collision alarmed the parents, it was gradually dismissed because in the minutes that followed Bethany showed no indication of health issues.

Certain symptoms occurred later. Zabeth and Paul repeatedly reported this accident to the hospital nurses and doctors. This incident was the only time in the girl’s brief life that something injurious like this had occurred that might cause the symptoms they were witnessing. The recounting of the accident was repeatedly dismissed by the immediate medical service providers and Bethany was consequently misdiagnosed with shaken baby syndrome. Of course I am making this categorical statement based on Zabeth’s and Paul’s testimonies. A court of law has yet to confirm that legally. But here is that allegation status to date, even as Bethany is still in the custody of the BC Ministry of Children, and worse, so are her two brothers.

Only one doctor made that initial diagnosis. It is not confirmed that this doctor will now be willing to testify in a court of law. Upteen other medical opinions dispute that initial diagnosis, have written reports and would testify if asked. An appropriate investigation took place. The RCMP did their analysis and dismissed any liability by the Baynes. Bethany should have been returned at least three months after being taken from Zabeth and Paul. She was not returned. She has not been in her parents’ custody for two years. Two Years! Compounding the Ministry’s culpability in injustice with respect to the Baynes, is their seizure of the boys. All three children were taken initially in October 2007, but the boys were returned albeit in a supervised arrangement whereby Paul and Zabeth had to live with their sons in Zabeth’s parents’ home rather than their own house. Then without cause, the boys were taken on June 2008. No cause has ever been stated or presented. Documentation shows that the Ministry lawyer advised the Ministry to return the boys. They are still held. And here is the appalling coincidence. Because Paul and Zabeth were still trying to get their daughter back, Global TV negotiated an interview with the Baynes, and shortly after that aired, the Ministry accompanied by the customarily assigned RCMP officers showed up to take two crying boys from grandparents and parents. It smacks of vindictive game playing with the lives of children to which the Minister of Children and the Ministry is committed. This Ministry should consider cleaning house quickly before the ceilings come down on many heads in a very public debacle. I believe that very soon newspapers, magazines, television networks will be blasting this story of injustice.

Join the growing number of people who are signing a petition to have the children returned to Paul and Zabeth. It's free and takes less than a minute of your time. Sign your full name. That’s what counts.
"Bayne Campaign for Justice"
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/Baynekids?e

Paul and Zabeth Bayne – Part 16 – The Bayne Campaign for Justice

This photograph of Bethany's arm was taken by horrified birth parents Zabeth and Paul Bayne during one of their scheduled visits with Bethany when they discovered this bruise on her arm, sustained during the safe and protective care she is supposed to be receiving from foster care givers under the administrative authority of the Ministry of Children and Family Development. It appeared to them to be the print of an adult hand which might only be left by applying undue and unnecessary pressure on a tiny girl's arm. With their concern, Paul and Zabeth appealed to every appropriate government official and not one person provided the courteousy of a response. They even requested that their daughter be moved to another foster home for her protection but this request was not given attention. And if this bruise was not caused by a human hand but rather from a fall or some other incident, wouldn't you think this should find its way into a report?

Don't you think the supervision and accountability grid is missing critical social and people skills and leadership here? I have been a professional service provider and care giver and pastor for over 40 years and I would never treat someone this way. I would never 'not respond.' These are the birth parents and they deserve answers and responses from the servants of the people of this province. There is absolutely no justification for silence in this matter. I appeal to journalists everywhere to jump on this story.

People all over this country are anxious to hear that the B.C. Ministry of Children and Family Development is doing the right thing. This treatment of the Baynes by a district division of MCFD is outrageous, deplorable and it must be arrested now. We implore the responsible leadership of MCFD to let this child come home to her parents. Let her brothers come home to their parents! Let these children be together in their parents' home where they are safe and loved and secure.