By Canadian Press

‘Every bone in her face broken’: woman attacked at youth home needs more surgery

Feb 20, 2017 | 4:45 PM

EDMONTON — The woman who was viciously beaten while working at a youth home northeast of Edmonton has had hours of surgery and faces a long road to recovery.

Heather Vanderzee, 63, was working alone at the Elk Island Child and Youth Ranch facility on Feb. 4 when she was attacked.

In an exclusive interview with CTV Edmonton, Vanderzee says she can’t remember the attack, or being taken to hospital, or the names of the boys who attacked her.

Her injuries include a jaw broken in two places, slashes to her neck and cheek, a broken nose, her right eye socket shattered, and her lower teeth broken.

Officials said there are four plates holding parts of her face together.

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

Two boys, aged 14 and 15, are facing charges of attempted murder, theft of a vehicle, breach of probation and breach of recognizance.

“They haven’t really told us a lot about it, just that every bone in her face was broken and with the repairs they’re doing,” said Larry, Vanderzee’s partner.

For now, Vanderzee is focusing on her recovery and says she’s been told that if she regains her memory she could suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Elk Island Child and Youth Ranch says on its website that it offers an intensive treatment program for child and youth who are covered under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act.

(CTV Edmonton)

The Canadian Press

by Canadian Press

‘Every bone in her face broken’: woman attacked at youth home needs more surgery

What's Happening