Dr. Ali Khakpour gives evidence remotely; screen grab courtesy Desmond Fatality Inquiry webcast
A doctor who saw Lionel Desmond twice in our province, after the former soldier’s return from New Brunswick, says he didn’t show signs of being actively suicidal.
Dr. Ali Khakpour, who served as an Emergency Room and family doctor in Guysborough Co. between 2014 and 2018, appeared on the 14th day of the Desmond Fatality Inquiry in Port Hawkesbury.
He says he sutured a cut on Desmond’s finger and represcribed sleeping medication for the former solider.
Dr. Khakpour says Desmond was positive both times.
“He was taking care of himself positively,” he says. “Looking positive to [the] future to become well.”
Dr. Khakpour says Desmond’s mental health situation was stable.
He says, despite previous suicidal episodes, there was nothing indicating the former infantryman needed emergency mental health care.
“Because you have had a thought of suicidality five years ago, then I have to admit you to the psychiatric ward?” he says. “This is nonsense.”
Testimony continues Thursday.
