Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: April 12th, 2021

Attention:
Dr. Jenn Stephenson
Associate Dean (Academic),
Re: Aegrotat Standing/Mackenzie (Kenzie) Kash
Student ID: 20162431

Dear Dr. Stephenson,

I am processing this appeal on Mackenzie (Kenzie) Kash¿¿s behalf as he is experiencing vision problems (among other things) that make it not possible to read, or write at this time. He has signed the Delegate Consent section of the Request for Academic Consideration for Extenuating Circumstance, authorizing me to liaise with Faculty. To that end he would like to communicate with full transparency, as the situation is dire enough, no need to add unnecessary layers.

He began having a consistent headache at the back of his head in the beginning of March, and both eyes were suddenly very red, we thought he might have pink eye, he saw an MD virtually from Kingston and was prescribed antibacterial drops. The redness and headache persisted for two more weeks, and then his vision became blurry. We brought him to Toronto to see an Optometrist and run diagnostics as we thought he needed glasses. He returned to Kingston, however, the situation worsened quite quickly so we brought him back to see his Family Doctor, Noah Vale. He ruled out vision, via a second Optometrist same day, Kenzie then went to NYG Emergency for a CT scan as he started seeing black dots. They ordered an MRI, which he finally had on Thursday (we are awaiting the results). He has since been referred to Dr. Mandelcorn, a neuro-ophthalmologist at TWH, where we hope to get a diagnosis and treatment plan. This rapid onset has been very worrisome for everyone involved, but of course, terribly troubling for Kenzie. Additionally, he is a committed student who diligently completes all work well before it is due, and to the absolute best of his ability. The added stress of this occurring at the end of the term is overwhelming. With very little work left to complete preceding this health issue effecting his vision, we feel the best route to take is to Appeal for Aegrotat Standing, as outlined by the Undergraduate Chair, Scott-Morgan Straker.

I want to add that navigating this sudden health issue during lockdown/stay at home orders has been challenging as Kenzie must attend all hospital appointments solo, however, the readiness and support of the various departments, Professors, Undergraduate Chair and Student Services at Queens has been exceptional, and greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,
Hayley Kash

VP of Global Operations
Canadian Health Systems Inc.
1.888.225.8310 (Support)
647.225.5370 (Cellular)
hkash@chsinc.ca www.chsinc.ca