NDP leader Todd Hardy was diagnosed with leukemia Wednesday.
Hardy was transported by medical aircraft to Vancouver Thursday for further testing.
He intends to continue as MLA for Whitehorse Centre and will lead the NDP into the fall territorial election.
Mount Lorne MLA Steve Cardiff is serving as acting NDP leader until Hardy’s return.
“It’s a bit of a shock, but we’re going to get through this,” said Cardiff.
“Todd is a powerhouse kind of guy, whether it’s karate or hockey or working hard on the Habitat for Humanity house.
“Other than the diagnosis for leukemia, he’s very healthy. His attitude is very positive, and he has a great family support network.”
Hardy’s choice of a medevac was taken as a precautionary measure, said Cardiff.
“Leukemia affects your immune system, which makes you vulnerable, so instead of putting you on an airplane with 75 or 100 people who might have colds or the flu and risk further infection, Todd decided to go this route.
“In Vancouver he and his family will figure out what treatment regime he’s going to follow.
“Everyone is behind Todd. He’s got a real positive attitude about this like he does about so many other things.
“That bodes well.” (GM)
Body found in river
Birdwatchers in Whitehorse found a partially submerged body floating in the Yukon River Thursday evening.
The body of an adult male of First Nations ancestry was found at approximately 6:20 p.m. in the river adjacent to Quartz Road, across from Wal-Mart, said RCMP Sgt. Ross Milward.
“There was no current where he was found, which is why he came to rest there,” said Milward.
Preliminary evidence suggests the man had not been in the river very long, he said.
Police are working to identify the man, who was probably in his 30s, said Milward.
Foul play is not suspected at this time.
The Yukon Coroner’s office has ordered an autopsy to determine the cause of death. (GM)