‘It’s a battle’: Canada Post worker denied long-term disability as strike looms

What’s happening?

A long-service Canada Post employee is continuing to fight for access to much-needed disability benefits as another strike looms at the Crown corporation.

Chantelle Lucyshyn, who has worked at Canada Post for 24 years, was denied short-term disability earlier this year because her cancer diagnosis came during the last job action.

While the decision was reversed, Lucyshyn told CTV News Kitchener that she’s been dealt another blow in the midst of chemotherapy treatments.

“I had received an email stating that my short-term disability [decision] was overturned and I qualified for it, but in the same type of letter, I also received one stating I wouldn’t be eligible for long-term disability,” she said.

“We pay into our pension, we pay into our benefits. How can they take that away from us? It’s very stressful. I’m supposed to be at home stress-free.”

Canada Post claimed in a statement that the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) refused to cover employee benefits during the last strike. A CUPW spokesperson said an investigation has been launched into the situation.

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Can you get disability benefits for cancer?

For Canadians who can’t work due to cancer, short-term disability (STD) and long-term disability (LTD) benefits can provide a crucial financial lifeline.

How do these benefits help?

• STD: Provides temporary financial support for individuals unable to perform their job duties.
• LTD: Offers income replacement for individuals unable to return to work for an extended period of time.

To qualify for STD or LTD benefits, medical documentation is essential to demonstrate how your condition prevents you from working.

Sadly, insurance companies often deny legitimate claims — adding unnecessary stress to an already difficult situation.

SEE ALSO
• What medical conditions qualify for disability in Canada?
• Denied LTD? Seek legal advice before appealing the decision
• Pocket Disability Lawyer: Real-time insights on your rights

WATCH: Disability lawyer James Fireman explains what you need to do if your disability claim is rejected on an episode of the Disability Law Show.

Claim denied? Contact us

If your insurance company prevented you from accessing disability benefits for cancer, or another medical condition, connect with an experienced disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.

Our compassionate team regularly resolves issues involving STD, LTD, critical illness, life insurance, and mortgage insurance claims.

We’ve helped countless Canadians secure the compensation they’re owed. Contact us today for a FREE disability consultation.

Disclaimer: The materials provided in this article are for general informational purposes only and DO NOT constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a legal representative at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.