Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: Attn: Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to request withdrawal after the deadline for Phil 270 and Phil 351. The effects of my epilepsy and the associated mental health issues have made it impossible for me to continue at this time.

My main seizures are preceded by a sequence of pre-seizures (auras). All of these auras are in the auditory part of my brain. The final aura virtually guarantees a full seizure. This aura is the sound of many voices talking at the same time. As a result, I have become very anxious where there are people because it is difficult to tell the difference between their voices and the aura. I have extreme anxiety and panic attacks on the bus, on campus and in classes and I find it difficult to absorb any of the lecture material.

I am also in week 5 of a 30 week transition to my epilepsy medication. My neurologist ramps me up on the new drug before ramping me down on the old drug. These drugs can have significant effects on anxiety and depression. We are hoping that the side effects of the new drug will be better and that the drug will be more effective.

On November 27th, I was unable to leave the house due to anxiety and panic. My father took me to our family doctor and the doctor has made an emergency referral to a mental health professional (psychiatrist). Please note that we have been on a waiting list waiting for a referral since 2012. Note also that I have been taking a reduced course load to try and make dealing with the anxiety more manageable. My father and brother have changed their schedules to get me to class so that I don't have bus or waiting time. I have tried to choose courses with online content in the event that I cannot get to class. Despite the help, my anxiety has been getting worse. The Doctor gave me a letter confirming that I am unable to attend school pending further evaluation.

I need to focus now, on getting help for the anxiety, panic and depression and I need time to deal with the possible drug side effects. I don't know what will be the plan will be but I anticipate the possibility of being off school while I get treatment. I fully intend to return to finish my degree once I have dealt with these issues.

Please allow my request to drop these course at this date.

Thank you,

Liam McKay
1lm11
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