Sandra Bullock vs. Sun Life — Standing Up for Disability Rights in Canada

When Sandra Bullock, a single mother from Georgetown, Ontario, needed her long term disability benefits the most, her insurance company turned its back on her. Despite clear medical evidence confirming she could not work due to major depressive disorder, anxiety, and recurring migraines, Sun Life Financial cut off her benefits.

The insurer’s reasoning? If Sandra could care for her severely disabled 9-year-old son, Jacob, then she must also be able to return to a demanding office job. This argument ignored the devastating toll Sandra’s caregiving responsibilities took on her health. Jacob requires round-the-clock care because of his developmental condition — even at night, Sandra had to remain by his side to ensure his safety. The exhaustion left her unable to function in a workplace environment.

The legal definition of “total disability” in Canada focuses on whether a person can realistically perform the duties of their job — not whether they can care for a loved one at home.

Our Legal Response

Faced with Sun Life’s refusal, Sandra turned to Samfiru Tumarkin LLP. Toronto disability lawyer and Partner James K. Fireman filed a $5.3-million legal claim in Ontario Superior Court, challenging the insurer’s arbitrary decision.

Our firm argued that Sun Life had:

• Disregarded medical evidence from Sandra’s treating doctors, all of whom confirmed she was unfit for work.
• Mischaracterized caregiving as proof of employability, setting a dangerous precedent for parents of disabled children across Canada.
• Caused unnecessary hardship, leaving Sandra without financial support during her most vulnerable time

Her case highlights one of the most common reasons for LTD denial in Canada — insurers misinterpreting or dismissing legitimate medical restrictions.

Public Scrutiny and Justice Restored

The case gained national attention through Global News and Corus Radio coverage. This media spotlight, combined with our powerful legal strategy, pushed her insurer to reconsider its position. Shortly after, Sun Life reinstated Sandra’s LTD benefits.

Sandra’s story is not unique. Many Canadians face wrongful denials when applying for benefits like Sun Life short term disability and long-term disability coverage through Sun Life. Understanding your rights is critical, especially when dealing with complex claims.

What This Case Teaches Other Canadians

• If your LTD benefits are denied, you don’t have to accept the insurer’s decision. You may be able to appeal or pursue legal action to protect your rights.
• Coverage often depends on medical conditions insurers try to dispute or minimize. Learn more about the conditions that qualify for disability benefits in Canada.

Sandra’s victory is more than just a personal win. It is a message to all Canadians: insurance companies can’t deny legitimate claims simply to protect their bottom line.

At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we are proud to have stood by Sandra and ensured she received the justice and support she deserved.

Denied Long Term Disability? We Can Help

Sandra’s story is a reminder that if your LTD benefits are denied or cut off, you don’t have to accept the insurer’s decision. Samfiru Tumarkin LLP has helped thousands of Canadians win their disability benefits.

Our team undertands how insurers operate — and we’ll work to ensure you get what you’re entitled to.

At our firm, we have:

• ⚖️ Settled over 99% of cases quickly through negotiation or mediation
• 👥 Helped 50,000+ clients nationwide
• 💰 Secured millions in compensation
• 📱 Free Consultations for insurance claims
• ⚖️ No win, no fee — you don’t pay unless we succeed
• ⭐ Earned 3,063 5-star Google reviews (4.7 average)
• 🏆 Recognized as one of Canada’s Best Law Firms (Globe and Mail)