Submit an Academic Petition or Appeal

Petition Letter: November 19, 2019
Faculty of Arts & Sciences
Attention: Dr. Jenn Stevenson, Associate Dean (Studies)

Re: Lauren Franzoni Student 20069251

I am appealing to drop the following courses (Fall, 2019) past the Nov 1 deadline.
Econ 111-001
Econ 112-700
Ensc 103-001
Math 126A-001 (Math 126B-001 has been dropped)

I am experiencing a severe depressive episode. I have been prescribed anti-depressants, and am being closely monitored by my health care team in Toronto. Although excited to pursue my major in Economics, a vague unease marred Frosh Week and I took little pleasure in it or seeing old friends. I attended only the first lectures. I quickly became smothered by persistent, pervasive feelings of sadness and frustration. I cocooned in my room, avoiding roommates, close friends and especially my family who would have immediately reacted to my mood, weight loss and excessive sleeping. . I had a similar episode in 1st year while at BISC which should have flagged my own awareness of the situation but that, followed by the concussion and broken leg in 2nd year only compounded my sense of hopelessness and the impossibility of catching up.

When I couldn¿¿t return following mid-term study break, my parents sought immediate medical attention. My Doctor originally felt I would be able to resume classes with the assistance of academic accommodation and arrangements were underway to hand off ongoing care, medication monitoring and counselling to Health Services at Queens. This was changed after follow-up appointments with no noticeable improvement in my symptoms. My medical team was reluctant to change meds or include adjunct medications as there is a very strong familial medical history of Bipolar Disorder. They have determined that it is best that I remain in Toronto under close medical supervision and with a strong support network. Dr. Chang has prepared a Verification of Personal Heath Condition as well as a letter to substantiate this appeal indicating my inability to fulfill all or most academic obligations and requesting time off from academic commitments until at best December 21, 2019. This will be reassessed over the coming weeks.

Currently, this is day by day. Until my symptoms are stabilized, my future is uncertain. When appropriate, I will be seeking support and assistance with private therapy and with TAO.

I hope to return to my studies at Queen¿¿s as quickly as possible or re-enter gradually through on-line or distance studies. Through both 1st and 2nd years¿¿ unexpected medical and academic setbacks, Student Services and Health Services have been very supportive.

I trust the information above will result in a favourable decision.

Lauren R. Franzoni
(With Assistance)