By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A health advocate, cyclist and physician who died along the trails he loved near Nordegg has received another tribute in a long list, this time from the floor of the Alberta legislature.
Dr. Darren Markland, 54, was “one of the best humans I’ve ever known,” the NDP’s deputy house leader told the assembly Tuesday.
Describing Markland as a husband, father, cyclist, poet, philosopher and public health advocate, David Shepherd said the Royal Alexandra Hospital physician “lived and loved with abandon, with a ready laugh, infectious smile, and a heart as big as the outdoors he loved so much.”
Known for his unconventional but endearing lifestyle, Markland died Sept. 21 in a mountain biking accident in the Black Mountain trail network, about 105 kilometres west of Rocky Mountain House in the west-central reaches of Alberta.
Born in Rimbey but raised in Stony Plain, Markland had become a minor celebrity over his posts, interviews and advocacy for cycling, science-based public health and healthy living. He shared stories on the impact of COVID-19 — and shared free coffee via his creation, the barista bike.
Despite his popularity, Markland remained humble. “Darren didn’t seek the spotlight, but I’ll say that his soul shone too bright to be hidden,” said Shepherd, the member for Edmonton-City Centre.
“He was a fixture in the ICU at the Royal Alex, where he saved countless lives and provided solace and support at the end of many more.
“There he faced some of the darkest, most difficult things imaginable, but in staring into that abyss, he never failed to bring light to those he served, to truly see them, because no one was anonymous for Darren.”
Shepherd continued: “Everyone was fully human, and he cared for them, every part of them: body, mind and spirit. Even those who rejected his knowledge and resisted his help received his care. Darren cared a lot, which is why he chose to fight for public health and our public health care system.”
After news of Markland’s death broke, tributes and condolences flooded social and legacy media, from friends, colleagues and leaders alike.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said he was “deeply saddened” by the loss. “His compassion and dedication made our country stronger.”
Markland was “more than a healer,” said Amarjeet Sohi, the then-mayor of Edmonton. “He was a champion for kindness, justice, community spirit and had a deep appreciation of the nature that surrounds our beautiful city.”
