Initiative Towards Changing Laws related to Multiple Sclerosis

Canada has one of the highest rates of Multiple Sclerosis which is a disease that attacks the central nervous system and the symptoms of the disease cause weakness that includes impaired speech, extreme fatigue, and vision problems. The disease is classified as an episodic disability because the symptoms appear and disappear.

Fort McMurray-Cold Lake MP David Yurdiga introduced a motion before the House of Commons that will protect people who suffer from multiple sclerosis and other episodic disabilities. He ensured that this motion would have a safety net protecting people suffering from this disease. The reason behind him taking this step is that he is affected personally because his wife Kathy lives with multiple sclerosis. His wife worked as a bookkeeper but once she was diagnosed with MS she could no longer work.

“I was instantly disabled, I went from a healthy working person to a person who couldn’t function.” Said Kathy

A much-needed change in the government policy

Almost 77,000 people in Canada have the disease and according to The Conference Board of Canada, 60 percent of people suffering from multiple sclerosis are unemployed. So, the MS Society is supporting the initiative taken by Yurdiga completely and has already surpassed the first step towards success as it passed the first reading on 2nd November 2018. To know more about the initiative read here.

People suffering from MS want to work but they are not able to continue working as it causes extreme fatigue they can be provided with jobs with flexible arrangements that can keep them employed and support their families.

“Most government programs, like EI and the disability tax credit, have high eligibility requirements that don’t offer enough flexibility for people living with MS and episodic disabilities” said Julie Kelndorfer, director of government relations for the MS Society.

A change in the government policy is much required as everyone is not as lucky like Kathy as she had a family-run business that was able to accommodate her and support her needs.

Furthermore , Kelndorfer says “We know that people with MS want to work but they struggle to continue to work”

A step towards success

If the initiative taken by Yurdiga is passed by the House of Common then the standing committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities will start reviewing all the policy changes that could benefit people with MS and other episodic disabilities.

Disability Credit Canada helps disabled Canadians qualify for Disability Tax Credit, Long Term Disability, and CPP Disability Benefits. Read the guidebook for more information or call us today for free assessment at 1-844-800-6020.