Ontario cancer patient denied entry to bingo because breathing hole in her neck had no mask

Elaine Arbeau, aged 67 and currently engaged in a pitched battle with lung cancer, doesn’t really get out much anymore. Her big passion in life is bingo, and she was looking forward for months to the reopening of Delta Bingo en Pickering, Ontario close to her.

However, things took an unfortunate turn moments after reuniting with her friends at the bingo hall. She was asked to leave because of the hole in her neck.

The bingo hall’s management expected her to cover the hole up with a mask or something similar, but of course, this isn’t medically feasible in this case, as it’s not like wearing a mask over your mouth and nose.

Joe Gilbert, her son, said when interviewed, “She was told to leave by management if she didn't cover up the hole on her neck. She explained that was impossible to do. That's how she breathes." Gilbert went on to say, "My mom was beside herself and floored.”

Arbeau left without saying anything the first time, even though the manager invited her back in at that point. She stated that she felt too embarrassed and humiliated.

She then did some research at home which led her to feel that she was treated wrongly, as she had a medical excuse. In all of Durham region, people who would have their ability to breathe impeded by masks in any way aren’t required to wear one.

She went back and this time was stopped at the door. They gave her the number to the head offices of Delta Bingo and turned her away, saying that they can make their own rules, as they are a private institution.

Delta Bingo CEO Dan Johnston said he was currently reviewing the case, and commented, "I'll make a judgement shortly, but we would prefer that people who are unable to wear masks do not attend. I think it's best for them." Johnston mentioned that safety has to be the first priority for the company, legal exceptions notwithstanding.

In the video, the employee tells Arbeau the bingo hall is private property and they can "mandate any rules that they want." She struggles to tell the employee that she believes she has a right to be there but is still denied entry.

If a mask "inhibits a person's ability to breath in any way" they are not required.

"My poor mom has no voice so I'm hoping by getting this out there many people will join me to give her one," Gilbert said. "This should never happen to anyone in my mom's position."

Speaking over the phone to CTV News Toronto on Sunday, Delta Bingo CEO Cam Johnston said he will take a "hard look" over the case but said people who can't wear masks shouldn't be visiting their establishment at this time.

"I'll make a judgement shortly but we would prefer that people who are unable to wear masks do not attend. I think it's best for them."

Johnston said he empathizes with Arbeau but said safety has to be his "number one priority at this time."