Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Dear Dr. Bénard:

In response to your letter advising of the Faculty's decision to suspend my enrolment at Queen's University for the duration of the academic year of Fall 2018-Winter 2019.

I hope the following information will help you understand my past condition and that you allow me to continue my studies at Queen's University without interruption.

In 2014, I was diagnosed with Epilepsy as a result of suffering from ongoing grand mal seizures. I advised the university of my condition at the time of my enrolment and thanks to the help and understanding of Ms. Libby Hearn, I was provided a private room at Leggett Hall.

My doctors deduced that the initial medication prescribed for my seizure condition was ineffective. From a personal perspective, the initial medication caused me anxiety and sleep deprivation that added to my inability to concentrate on my University studies.

At my parent's request, I voluntarily withdrew from my studies for the academic year of Fall 2016 to Winter 2017 in order to allow my doctors to trial an alternative medication. I returned in the Fall of 2017 on my trial medication with the hopes of succeeding in my studies. Unfortunately, the second trial protocol did not resolve my health issues. I still suffered from serious bouts of anxiety and sleep deprivation caused by my fear of a possible seizure in public. I feel that my ability to dedicate the proper amount of time to my studies was greatly compromised.

I am in the process of phasing-out of the second medication Divalproex Sodium. It appears that the present medication Lamotrigine has kept me seizure-free and allowed me the opportunity to live a more normal life.

I am requesting that you consider my Appeal falls within Queen's definition of an extenuating circumstance and also defined as an extraordinary situation and on the possible merit of waiving the academic regulation.

This has been an exhausting three year process that has taken much of my natural abilities to endure and persevere. I ask for your compassion and understanding of my circumstances.

I apologize in advance, due to vacation schedules as well as the overburdened health-care system, the participating doctor's letters will be forthcoming.

Sincerely,

Paris Finn

Student 1014828