Cause of death Letter to the Editor - Globe and Mail Murray S. Katz Thursday, December 9, 1999 Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Que. -- An article in The Globe Review (Nov. 30) stated that "the jury did not find that chiropractic treatment was the cause of the death" of Laurie Jean Mathiason. This statement is totally contrary to the evidence that was presented. I know, as I served as the expert witness for the family of the late Ms. Mathiason at the request of chief coroner John Nyssen of Saskatchewan. The cause of death, as stated by Dr. Nyssen, was that "Laurie died of a ruptured vertebral artery, which occurred in association with a chiropractic manipulation of the neck." Further, pathologist Robert McCauley said Ms. Mathiason's death was due with "99 per cent certainty" to the neck manipulation. This was also my testimony. The coroner clearly explained on several occasions that the inquest would not deal with the question of guilt or innocence. That is the function of a civil trial now under way. The purpose of the inquest was well known to the many chiropractic officials who attended, yet they continue to misrepresent the role of the coroner and the findings of the jury. While the chiropractors may claim what they wish and face the legal consequences, this is the first time I have found a reporter making such a false statement. You can imagine the pain felt when a newspaper misrepresents the cause of death of a loved one. M.D.C.M.

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