Petition Letter
My name is Robert Craig Stover, and I am appealing the ruling that requires me to withdraw from classes for one year. I would also request to acquire credit standing in my courses due to my less than desirable grades for which I feel do not reflect my true potential. I was under extreme levels of stress, feeling a great deal of pressure, and very extenuating circumstances during my first year at Queen's University. I felt overwhelmed from day one, and the stress of a heavy workload did not falter as the year went on. I did not seek help, because I was determined I could in fact work through the academic year on my own. I felt embarrassed that some felt that I needed help and refused to seek it when my coursework, at times, indicated otherwise. I carried on having my ups and downs. Things spiralled when my father became critically ill with a PCP pneumonia and infection in his lungs in late November and December 2013. This time was very difficult for my family and I, but my family stressed the importance of staying in school to finish first year. This was very difficult for me, as I felt my presence in the hospital to be with my father held a much greater priority. I fell behind in my course work to finish the semester and also could not bring myself to study for the impending exams, which in turn caused very poor grades. His illness only worsened in the following months and I felt my presence was needed then more than ever, causing me to miss classes and tutorials alike. I fell behind greatly and still felt the pang of embarrassment when asked if I needed help, I felt I could handle both on my own, when in reality I couldn't. My father was in an intubated, medically induced coma for another few weeks after the winter semester began and his condition did not improve so he was transferred via air ambulance to Toronto General Hospital immediately for emergency procedures that would soon save his life. His condition took a extended period of time to improve, and even post discharge he still received home care. During his time in Toronto, I drove three hours to see him on multiple occasions to be with him as well as supporting my mother. By the time he returned home, he still needed a great deal of assistance, and this still greatly distracted me from school. In lectures and tutorials I could not focus on the content being presented. Things still had not returned to normal by the time winter exams rolled around and I found myself not being able to study and felt that I was too far behind and this eminently overwhelmed me causing my grades to plummet ultimately to where they are now. To say this entire situation put strain on me is an understatement. At the time of winter exams I had only confided in one of my TA's, Christina Salavantis, for which she assisted me to the best of her abilities. She recommended an appointment with an academic advisor within my faculty. I hope it is understood that my circumstances were extenuating, and I feel that I have adequate grounds for my appeal, thank you very much for your consideration.