Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Academic Petition Committee,

I am writing to request permission to exceed the maximum number of attempts for STAT 263.

I have been experiencing a chronic gastrointestinal illness, SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) and SIFO (Intestinal Fungal Overgrowth), since the age of 17–18. After moving from Sri Lanka to Canada for university, I did not have access to a family physician or family support. As my symptoms worsened over time, I visited walk-in clinics and a naturopath, however, I was unable to receive an accurate diagnosis, as SIBO is difficult to identify. As a result, my condition remained unresolved and continued to worsen.

These circumstances directly affected my academic performance across multiple terms, including each of my attempts at STAT 263. In addition to physical symptoms such as bloating, gastroparesis, nausea, and pain, I experienced significant cognitive effects, including severe brain fog, dizziness, and fatigue, particularly after eating. The brain fog was substantial enough that I struggled to concentrate, read, or engage in conversations for extended periods after meals. These symptoms impaired my ability to focus during lectures, retain information, and perform effectively in timed examinations. Because the symptoms were persistent and often unpredictable, I found it difficult to maintain consistent study habits or perform at a level reflective of my academic ability.

The most challenging aspect was that my condition remained undiagnosed for an extended period. I initially believed my symptoms were normal, and as they worsened, I continued to manage them without understanding the underlying cause. Over time, the cognitive effects became more severe, making it increasingly difficult to balance my health and academic responsibilities. As my illness progressed, the impact on my academic performance remained consistent or increased.

By April 2025, my symptoms had significantly worsened and became more visibly concerning. My family became involved in helping me seek appropriate care, and I began working with a naturopath from April to December 2025, who identified my condition as SIBO and SIFO based on my symptoms. We attempted multiple treatment approaches, however, I was unable to continue one due to severe gastritis related side effects, and another was not effective. He advised me to seek care from a physician for prescription antibiotic treatment.

I am now in a different position. I will be returning to Sri Lanka to begin treatment with a physician and undergo a structured treatment plan over the next two months. For the first time, I will have consistent access to medical care and a clear plan to manage my health.

STAT 263 is a foundational course within my mathematics program, and my current performance does not reflect my academic ability under stable conditions. If granted permission to retake the course, I will do so while being treated and with consistent access to medical care. The course being offered online in the summer will also allow me to better manage my health while completing it. I completed my previous attempts while managing an undiagnosed condition that significantly affected my cognitive functioning, and I do not believe those outcomes reflect my true academic potential. I am seeking the opportunity to retake the course under improved conditions so that I can build a stronger statistical foundation and more accurately reflect my academic ability in my overall record.

Thank you for your time and consideration.
Saira Cader
20325717