Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Last Fall, I was diagnosed with a brain tumour (grade II astrocytoma). This, along with pre-existing treatment-resistant depression and anxiety, sent me towards a downwards spiral. I was able to continue on with my studies as a result of my neurosurgeon wanting to watch the growth of the tumour for the time being. However, it is very difficult to function normally. I began feeling like ending my life in Winter 2016, at the time I was enrolled in PSYC 221 and due to write a deferred exam for PSYC 271. I was hospitalized twice and kept at the hospital under Form 42 of the Mental Health Act both times, which legally requires me to stay at the hospital so I cannot harm myself or others. I was juggling longstanding depression and anxiety, and newly-diagnosed brain tumour, borderline personality disorder, and suicidal thoughts. After my discharge, I began intensive transitional treatment at the hospital several times a week. I was making trips to Ottawa, sometimes in the middle of the week, to get an MRI and contrast injection or attend an appointment with my neurosurgeon.

I have finished 60 percent of PSYC 221 (all work save the final exam), so I am requesting AG standing. Going to the hospital so many times a week conflicted with PSYC 221's class times, and my headaches and suicidal thoughts were getting worse and culminated around the time of the final.

I have finished 30 percent of PSYC 271, which makes me ineligible for AG standing for this course, so I am requesting an extension for IN standing so that I may write the exam (70 percent) when I am in better health and able to do so.

I have consulted with my psychiatrist, my GP, social worker, and heads of the transitional treatment program on how I can improve my situation. I am setting up therapy with a licensed clinical psychologist to hopefully set up a treatment plan for my mood disorders and health concerns. I have an appointment soon with my neurosurgeon to discuss a recent MRI. Although my mood disorders are chronic and treatment-resistant, I have been able to manage them before, and I hope that this intervention this summer will help me be successful in my next semester at Queen's.

Thank you so much for your consideration and time.
Bonnie C.