Our Story Through Dr. Goldberg's Eyes
👨🏼🦲The following text on this page comprises verbatim excerpts from a series of 29 medical letters authored by Dr. Norman Goldberg. Our 'Quotation Replacement System' employs distinct emojis to symbolize each of Dr. Norman Goldberg's 29 letters, enhancing our reference and recall abilities.
≈ In my over forty years of medical practice, I have seldom encountered cases where the protection of basic human rights is persistently threatened by systemic failures from Ontario Works, the Social Benefits Tribunal, and ODSP. The gravity of their situation has necessitated unprecedented levels of advocacy. ≈
≈ I am not only well-versed in the challenges they face within the system due to their medically recognized and documented mental disabilities, but I can also state, with absolute medical certainty, that no other medical professional is more qualified than I am to authoritatively comment on the medical conditions that limit their capacity to work. ≈
≈ Both have uniquely distinct medical conditions that severely restrict their employment options, making traditional work settings counterproductive for their mental and physical well-being. ≈
≈ I have instructed Ms. Fernandes and Mr. Gallagher to persistently forward this and all pertinent prior correspondences to any and all incoming Ontario Works Caseworkers. This is not merely a suggestion, but a medical directive that serves a dual purpose: to accommodate their documented cognitive impairments and to hold caseworkers accountable for recognizing and acting upon vital medical evidence already submitted to Ontario Works. Non-compliance with this directive will be seen as a negligent disregard for their well-being and will be met with the strictest of responses to ensure their rights are upheld. ≈
≈ #1 Professional Relationship and Therapeutic Collaborative Endeavors:
Scott Gallagher and Sameena Fernandes maintain a strictly professional relationship, with no indication of a common-law partnership. Their collaboration began in 2010, and since 2015, they have operated separate, distinct individual businesses and households from 10 Lisa Street #2502. This location also served as the office address for three not-for-profit organizations founded by Scott Gallagher:
All Addictions Anonymous
Addiction Free Youth
Hope and Happiness Wellness Services ≈
≈ #2 Economic Autonomy and Evidential Proof:
The transcripts and recordings from my individual appointments with both Mr. Gallagher and Ms. Fernandes (which they are in possession of) will be able to confirm for any recognized professional, or government body that Sameena and Scott are NOT financially interdependent. ≈
≈ #3 Navigating Ms. Fernandes’ Complex Mental Health Terrain:
Ms. Fernandes struggles with memory problems, learning disabilities, social and anticipatory anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, PTSD, tendencies towards OCD, severe depression, suicidal thoughts, and obsessive worrying akin to paranoia. ≈
≈ #4 Addressing Mr. Gallagher’s Multifaceted Health Concerns:
Mr. Gallagher suffers from medically diagnosed ADHD, Bipolar and Social Anxiety Disorder is being treated for a number of other physical health problems. ≈
≈ #5 The Revised 1111 Wellbeing Agreement: A Pledge for Health and Professional Synergy:
In the midst of Scott’s escalating health challenges and the systemic barriers thwarting Sameena’s attempts to secure essential therapeutic medical appointments—despite my exhaustive efforts and at least eight referral requests to psychiatric and mental health professionals met with silence or refusal—the "1111 Wellbeing Agreement" from 2017 necessitated an urgent reassessment.
On January 19th, 2023, I began a crucial dialogue with Sameena, leading to a revised agreement, which both Sameena and Scott signed off on in my office, and I witnessed and put my signature on the newly revised ‘My 1111 Well-being Agreement’ on April 4th, 2023.
The collaborative agreement, restructured after multiple careful discussions, not only harnesses Sameena and Scott’s individual capabilities while accommodating their unique disabilities, but also integrates Scott’s adaptive approach to his mental health challenges. Sameena adeptly manages administrative tasks, while Scott employs his technical and creative skills in video production and consulting, complemented by his proficiency with ChatGPT.
The "1111 Wellbeing Agreement" is a strategic wellbeing alliance, enabling them as mutual caregivers to facilitate reciprocal support precisely attuned to their disabilities, dedicating two hours each day to essential tasks and capitalizing on their individual strengths. ≈
≈ #6 Advocating for Autonomy: Self-Employment as a Therapeutic Imperative for Sameena and Scott:
As the treating physician for Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher, I am compelled to declare that self-employment as independent business owners is the only medically approved work model for them. This structure is critical to accommodate their health conditions, enabling a work environment that is "unstructured," "unorganized," and "unpredictable." ≈
≈ Concrete evidence of their effective partnership and the specific accommodations required for their work are documented in an audio recording of my February 28th, 2023, medical appointment with Ms. Fernandes, and a February 20th email from one of her former clients. ≈
Despite these documents being shared not only by myself but also by Scott and Sameena, Ontario Works caseworkers have completely ignored them.
This accommodation is necessary for them to work effectively, taking into account their unique limitations. As I have been a witness to their "1111 Wellbeing Agreement," I can affirm that the outlined parameters are the only viable means for them to engage in productive work.
#7 Addressing the Silence and its Consequences from Ontario Works:
My correspondence has clearly established the specific medical guidelines that enable Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher to thrive in their roles.
Despite authoritatively delineating the medical boundaries within which they can operate, Ontario Works has completely disregarded this vital information. Moreover, Ontario Works has failed to respond to multiple inquiries regarding the approval of this specialized work arrangement, which is crucial for Scott and Sameena to generate income.
This lack of response has persisted despite our efforts to engage with Ontario Works. As of November 9th, 2023, neither Scott nor Sameena has received any acknowledgment of messages sent on September 4th, 2022, September 15th, 2022, among other dates concerning Scott's affiliate arrangement with Sameena or the February 20th proposed offer from former client, Ms. Jones. This ongoing communication breakdown has left both individuals in limbo, exacerbating the decline of their mental and physical health, and worsening their financial circumstances.
In My September 15th letter addressed to Mr. Gallagher’s Ontario Works former caseworker, I said,
“Keeping in mind that Ontario Works already approved the subcontractor business relationship between Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher on June 17th, 2022 to provide video editing services at 200 per month to help Scott be able to afford his car insurance payments, and because Ms. Fernandes has offered to pay "affiliate commissions" to Mr. Gallagher without him having to work, I would think it makes complete sense for you to get back to Mr. Gallagher approving his request.”
In an attempt to break this silence, we sought the aid of North Peel and Dufferin clinic offering free legal services. Despite a formal request for support sent on March 9th, 2023, the clinic was ultimately unable to provide the necessary assistance.
#8 Transparency and Public Disclosure: Embracing Openness for Success
The decision to disclose this letter and all other letters on their website, integritychoices.com, serving as a centralized source for all relevant documents—protected by a password (recently changed to "passwordhidden")—is rooted in their belief in humanity and truth. They are convinced that success and profit can emerge from rigorous transparency. By exposing even the less flattering aspects of their situation, they maintain that it's precisely this openness that attracts the most suitable prospective clients.
#9 Preventing Unjust Termination of Benefits:
It is crucial to recognize that discontinuing Scott and/or Sameena's Ontario Works or ODSP benefits, due to their adherence to my medical advice to operate and work more closely together interdependently for accountability and profitability purposes, would be unjust.
The financial, mental, and physical deterioration of my patients, as detailed in my prior communications, highlights an urgent need for additional support—a need that has intensified since my June 15th (2023) 18-page advocacy letter, which you can review by visiting this link, https://www.integritychoices.com/supporting-documents/dr-goldbergs-letter-on-how-the-system-failed-sameena-and-scott (Password: Reach out to Sameena for password).
The lack of appropriate responses from Ontario Works, SBT, ODSP, and LTB, and the neglect of their specific needs as individuals with mental disabilities, is deeply troubling.
As a self-employed person, Sameena has essential business expenses (mostly monthly) which she reported to her previous caseworkers on December 19th, 2022, among other dates. The case was never about an overpayment to her, which is what Ontario Works and the SBT made it appear to be, which eventually got reversed after two appeals. It is about her legitimate business expenses not being acknowledged after numerous attempts to find out what expenses she is able to claim as a self-employed person. She has been making every effort possible to attain an answer from Ontario Works caseworkers, and every time, her question regarding this issue has been ignored. She is being prejudiced, ignored, and intentionally not recognized as being a self-employed person.
Sameena Fernandes faces challenges that include financial instability, and a decline in mental health, presenting overwhelming barriers to her ability to manage her legal and administrative duties.
The records I have supplied clearly depict her severe mental health issues, which have worsened under the current pressures.
In light of the clear and medically justified requests for a 6-month extension, it was disheartening to learn that this appeal was not honored. This has left them significantly more vulnerable, both financially and mentally.
Granting a 6-month reprieve to address their individual needs would not be detrimental to your organization. On the contrary, it would provide them with the opportunity to focus on their recovery and to work towards overcoming the financial challenges they face, which are beyond their control. Therefore, I am not simply requesting but emphatically insisting on a reconsideration of the decision to deny the 6-month extension.
In closing, the well-being of Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher rests with your judgment, and it is dependent on the granting of this vital 6-month reprieve. I trust that my medical advice and assessment will be taken seriously this time, and that they will be treated equitably to meet their unique needs. A 6-month extension of their ODSP Applications is essential for them, and I urge you to handle their cases with the sensitivity and compassion they urgently need.
⸗ Authorization for Medical Discussions
Both patients, Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher, have explicitly authorized me to discuss their medical conditions and situations amongst each other, as I find medically relevant and appropriate. This especially applies to matters involving agreements between them.
Consistency and Credibility
Through multiple consultations and documentation, and despite their different mental disabilities and associated memory issues, their accounts have exhibited remarkable consistency—neither one has ever contradicted the other. Their narratives have been mutually corroborative.
Public Appeal and Advocacy for Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher
Due to pressing circumstances surrounding Sameena Fernandes's and Scott Gallagher's mental, economic, and physical health conditions, I would like to urge everyone reading this letter—especially business owners, both online and local—to consider ways you can support these two committed and remarkable individuals. Whether it's through a yearly sponsorship or other meaningful contributions, your support can make a difference.
Unaddressed Issues and Unresponsive Organizations: The Escalating Crisis Faced by Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher
One of my letters, dated June 15, 2023, spans 18 pages and details the escalating mental health and financial crisis that Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher found themselves in at the time, and their situation has only become worse since June 1st, 2023. This has been exacerbated by the silence from key organizations. Among these, ODSP, the Social Benefits Tribunal, North Dufferin Peel Legal, and most critically, Ontario Works have shown the highest number of unaddressed issues against both individuals. Despite multiple follow-ups, medically-necessary six-month extension requests for Sameena and Scott were either declined or, in most cases, completely unanswered. Additional letters were dispatched on March 9, July 4, August 10, August 17, October 3, and October 10, all in 2023.
Special Accommodations and Reliability Statement
I've implemented targeted accommodations for Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher, advising them to audio record all interactions with myself, Ontario Works, ODSP, and other governmental or legal bodies. In cases where audio recording is not feasible, I've instructed them to communicate solely in writing.
These Accommodations Specifically Address Their Memory Challenges
These accommodations specifically address their memory challenges and ensure diligent handling of obligations. This system serves dual purposes: it not only keeps them accountable but also holds external parties to their commitments. Based on my experience, you can unequivocally trust what they have to say about themselves.
Exposing Institutional Negligence
My previous letters aim to meticulously expose the negligence of Ontario Works, ODSP, and the Social Benefits Tribunal. They spotlight the severe emotional and financial toll that these entities' shortcomings have taken on Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher, including their impediment to income-generating activities.
Scott and Sameena have been navigating the Ontario Works system for over a year, and it's been a relentless struggle. Despite a genuine willingness to work, traditional employment avenues remain closed off due to their specific medical limitations. In my professional capacity, I've conducted individual medical assessments and tirelessly worked to identify potential pathways toward financial independence for both. It's evident that Scott and Sameena both have the capacity for certain types of self-employment—despite their distinct mental health challenges.
Nevertheless, Ontario Works has yet to respond to multiple inquiries seeking approval for this special arrangement, keeping them stuck from generating additional income. Despite our efforts to see a viable response from Ontario Works, this issue remains unresolved till today, leaving both Sameena and Scott in limbo, leading to the deterioration of their mental and physical health and their financial situation getting even more dire every month. For more details into the intricacies of this pressing issue, visit www.integritychoices.com.
Missed Opportunities Due to System Failures
Scott Gallagher sent an email to his OW caseworker on February 21st, 2023, inquiring about a conditional self-employment offer he received. Despite multiple attempts to reach out, there was no response from his caseworker. This has been a recurring issue with this particular caseworker and others.
Significant Impact of Ignored Messages
The lack of response cost both Scott and Sameena Fernandes a contract that would have paid them $555 per month each for 6 months. Scott's message specifically sought permission from Ontario Works to accept the employment offer, which was conditional upon approval from me, Dr. Norman Goldberg.
Sameena's Experience Mirrors Scott's
Ms. Fernandes also sent similar messages to her own caseworker numerous times, a couple of specific dates consist of February 21st and March 5th, amongst other times that she attempted to reach out to her caseworker pertaining to the same self-employment offer. Much like Scott, Sameena's messages were ignored, despite her responsible attempts to get the necessary permissions.
Self-Employment Offer Medically Approved by Dr. Norman Goldberg
As their treating physician, I had verbally approved the offer for both of them, based on the special accommodations I had recommended. These accommodations would allow Scott and Sameena to work in an "unstructured," "organized," and "unpredictable" manner.
Further Attempts for Legal Support
Frustrated by the silence, we sought help from a local legal clinic that provides free legal services. Despite my formal letter requesting support on March 9th, 2023, the clinic ultimately couldn't offer the needed support.
Final Impact: Lost Opportunity
Ultimately, the failure of the system cost Scott and Sameena a significant self-employment opportunity, undermining not just their financial stability but also their faith in a system meant to support them. If interested in knowing more specific details on this issue, from all the specific dates to the messages sent, and more insight on this matter, and the negative toll these systemic barriers have had on both Scott and Sameena, visit www.integritychoices.com.
Addressing Landlord Misconduct
Being fully aware of Ms. Fernandes' medically diagnosed anticipatory anxiety condition, her landlord, a multi-billion-dollar corporation, systematically undermined both hers and Scott's income-generating activities. This strategic distraction occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic and forced Sameena Fernandes into bankruptcy on April 4th, 2021, in an attempt to stop ongoing harassment—an objective that ultimately proved unsuccessful. Another critical aim is to expose the irresponsible and retaliatory actions undertaken by this landlord, setting the stage for a future out-of-court settlement to alleviate the total distress that Sameena Fernandes has endured through these legal conflicts.
Professional and Financial Independence of Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher
Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher have been professional colleagues since 2011, with Ms. Fernandes volunteering for and serving as a board member on numerous not-for-profit initiatives founded by Scott Gallagher. These included All Addictions Anonymous, Addiction Free Youth, Hope and Happiness Wellness Services, the 1111 platform, and their most recent venture, Book Bridges. Sameena and Scott maintain strictly professional and independent financial lives. They have never been, are not currently, nor do they plan to be financially interdependent or engaged in any romantic or domestic partnership. Both conduct their separate professional activities from 10 Lisa Street, Suite 2502, but operate as distinct households and businesses. Importantly, until April 4, 2022, Sameena Fernandes resided at 4 Lisa Street.
Revision of their April 4th, 2017 Wellbeing Agreement
After a long history of attempting to secure additional support for Sameena and Scott, which included sending referral request forms on at least seven occasions—starting on August 9, 2021, August 18, 2021, and most recently on July 4, 2023, and October 3, 2023—to get Sameena appointments with qualified therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, with no responses from any of them, I initiated a significant conversation on January 19th. I suggested that she and Scott should collaborate more closely together for accountability and profitability purposes. This recommendation came after conducting more than 20 appointments with both parties and gathering all relevant data. Such a partnership would serve to compensate and accommodate each other's disabilities while simultaneously capitalizing on each other's strengths.
Following in-depth discussions over multiple meetings, we significantly revised their existing 1111 Well-being Agreement, originally dated April 4, 2017. This newly updated agreement was formally signed by all three of us in my office on April 4, 2023, highlighting its enhanced importance for Sameena and Scott's mutual well-being in light of their current medical conditions. For a more in-depth understanding of their collaborative approach and the medical considerations involved, please visit integritychoices.com.
Step 12 Work as Therapeutic Endeavor for Mental Health and Recovery
My letters explain why they generously dedicate their mornings seven days a week to offer free assistance to the public and why their outreach is genuine and devoid of upsells, hidden agendas, or ulterior motives. They are not only assisting others but the "step 12 derivative work" Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher engage in is far more than a charitable act. It serves as a crucial therapeutic practice that offers them immense therapeutic benefits. This work is integral to their ongoing mental health recovery journey.
Medical Work Compatibility Explained
My letters clearly establish the specific medical guidelines that allow Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher to excel in their roles. It not only outlines their unique limitations but also authoritatively sets the medical boundaries within which they can operate effectively. For more detailed information, please visit integritychoices.com.
Shared Special Accommodations
Ms. Fernandes and Mr. Gallagher have uniquely different mental disabilities and associated memory problems, which warrant special accommodation. I advised both of them to audio record all conversations they have with myself, Ontario Works, ODSP, and any other government body or legal representatives with which they may have agreements, and when this is not possible, I have advised them to only respond in writing to such organizations to help them remember and be responsible for their obligations and duties.
Exact Medical Conditions Impacting Employment Options for Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher
Ms. Fernandes struggles with memory problems, learning disabilities, social and anticipatory anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, PTSD, tendencies towards OCD, severe depression, suicidal thoughts, and obsessive worrying akin to paranoia. Mr. Gallagher suffers from medically diagnosed ADHD, Bipolar and Social Anxiety Disorder, and is being treated for a number of other physical health problems.
Both have uniquely distinct medical conditions that severely restrict their employment options, making traditional work settings counterproductive for their mental and physical well-being. Sameena's medical needs are similarly specific. Her limitations are much akin to Scott's, and forcing her into any form of work other than what has been medically approved and documented by myself would harm her well-being and recovery process.
The strict, limited, and medically approved parameters under which they can work make them best suited for self-employment, where they can operate as individual business owners in an unconventional work setting. This is consistent with my previous medical assessments stating that forcing either individual into traditional employment would be detrimental to their mental health and recovery processes.
For more comprehensive information on all the key components I discussed above regarding Sameena and Scott's situation and the circumstances that impede their ability to function effectively in society, visit www.integritychoices.com.
Urgent Call to Action for Supporting Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher
In light of the overwhelming challenges faced by Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher—spanning mental, financial, and physical health—I extend an earnest plea to everyone taking the time to read this correspondence. I particularly direct this appeal to entrepreneurs, both digital and community-based. Your involvement, be it through a recurring patronage or other impactful gestures, holds the power to positively alter the courses of their lives.
For an in-depth exploration of all discussed topics regarding the unique difficulties impeding Sameena and Scott's full societal participation, and to find out ways you can engage, benefit, and participate in their work, visit www.integritychoices.com.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Both patients, Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher, have explicitly authorized me to discuss their medical conditions and situations amongst each other, as I find medically relevant and appropriate. This especially applies to matters involving agreements between them.
Consistency and Credibility
Through multiple consultations and documentation, and despite their different mental disabilities and associated memory issues, their accounts have exhibited remarkable consistency—neither one has ever contradicted the other. Their narratives have been mutually corroborative.
Public Appeal and Advocacy for Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher
Due to pressing circumstances surrounding Sameena Fernandes's and Scott Gallagher's mental, economic, and physical health conditions, I would like to urge everyone reading this letter—especially business owners, both online and local—to consider ways you can support these two committed and remarkable individuals. Whether it's through a yearly sponsorship or other meaningful contributions, your support can make a difference.
Unaddressed Issues and Unresponsive Organizations: The Escalating Crisis Faced by Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher
One of my letters, dated June 15, 2023, spans 18 pages and details the escalating mental health and financial crisis that Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher found themselves in at the time, and their situation has only become worse since June 1st, 2023. This has been exacerbated by the silence from key organizations. Among these, ODSP, the Social Benefits Tribunal, North Dufferin Peel Legal, and most critically, Ontario Works have shown the highest number of unaddressed issues against both individuals. Despite multiple follow-ups, medically-necessary six-month extension requests for Sameena and Scott were either declined or, in most cases, completely unanswered. Additional letters were dispatched on March 9, July 4, August 10, August 17, October 3, and October 10, all in 2023.
Special Accommodations and Reliability Statement
I've implemented targeted accommodations for Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher, advising them to audio record all interactions with myself, Ontario Works, ODSP, and other governmental or legal bodies. In cases where audio recording is not feasible, I've instructed them to communicate solely in writing.
These Accommodations Specifically Address Their Memory Challenges
These accommodations specifically address their memory challenges and ensure diligent handling of obligations. This system serves dual purposes: it not only keeps them accountable but also holds external parties to their commitments. Based on my experience, you can unequivocally trust what they have to say about themselves.
Exposing Institutional Negligence
My previous letters aim to meticulously expose the negligence of Ontario Works, ODSP, and the Social Benefits Tribunal. They spotlight the severe emotional and financial toll that these entities' shortcomings have taken on Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher, including their impediment to income-generating activities.
Scott and Sameena have been navigating the Ontario Works system for over a year, and it's been a relentless struggle. Despite a genuine willingness to work, traditional employment avenues remain closed off due to their specific medical limitations. In my professional capacity, I've conducted individual medical assessments and tirelessly worked to identify potential pathways toward financial independence for both. It's evident that Scott and Sameena both have the capacity for certain types of self-employment—despite their distinct mental health challenges.
Nevertheless, Ontario Works has yet to respond to multiple inquiries seeking approval for this special arrangement, keeping them stuck from generating additional income. Despite our efforts to see a viable response from Ontario Works, this issue remains unresolved till today, leaving both Sameena and Scott in limbo, leading to the deterioration of their mental and physical health and their financial situation getting even more dire every month. For more details into the intricacies of this pressing issue, visit www.integritychoices.com.
Missed Opportunities Due to System Failures
Scott Gallagher sent an email to his OW caseworker on February 21st, 2023, inquiring about a conditional self-employment offer he received. Despite multiple attempts to reach out, there was no response from his caseworker. This has been a recurring issue with this particular caseworker and others.
Significant Impact of Ignored Messages
The lack of response cost both Scott and Sameena Fernandes a contract that would have paid them $555 per month each for 6 months. Scott's message specifically sought permission from Ontario Works to accept the employment offer, which was conditional upon approval from me, Dr. Norman Goldberg.
Sameena's Experience Mirrors Scott's
Ms. Fernandes also sent similar messages to her own caseworker numerous times, a couple of specific dates consist of February 21st and March 5th, amongst other times that she attempted to reach out to her caseworker pertaining to the same self-employment offer. Much like Scott, Sameena's messages were ignored, despite her responsible attempts to get the necessary permissions.
Self-Employment Offer Medically Approved by Dr. Norman Goldberg
As their treating physician, I had verbally approved the offer for both of them, based on the special accommodations I had recommended. These accommodations would allow Scott and Sameena to work in an "unstructured," "organized," and "unpredictable" manner.
Further Attempts for Legal Support
Frustrated by the silence, we sought help from a local legal clinic that provides free legal services. Despite my formal letter requesting support on March 9th, 2023, the clinic ultimately couldn't offer the needed support.
Final Impact: Lost Opportunity
Ultimately, the failure of the system cost Scott and Sameena a significant self-employment opportunity, undermining not just their financial stability but also their faith in a system meant to support them. If interested in knowing more specific details on this issue, from all the specific dates to the messages sent, and more insight on this matter, and the negative toll these systemic barriers have had on both Scott and Sameena, visit www.integritychoices.com.
Addressing Landlord Misconduct
Being fully aware of Ms. Fernandes' medically diagnosed anticipatory anxiety condition, her landlord, a multi-billion-dollar corporation, systematically undermined both hers and Scott's income-generating activities. This strategic distraction occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic and forced Sameena Fernandes into bankruptcy on April 4th, 2021, in an attempt to stop ongoing harassment—an objective that ultimately proved unsuccessful. Another critical aim is to expose the irresponsible and retaliatory actions undertaken by this landlord, setting the stage for a future out-of-court settlement to alleviate the total distress that Sameena Fernandes has endured through these legal conflicts.
Professional and Financial Independence of Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher
Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher have been professional colleagues since 2011, with Ms. Fernandes volunteering for and serving as a board member on numerous not-for-profit initiatives founded by Scott Gallagher. These included All Addictions Anonymous, Addiction Free Youth, Hope and Happiness Wellness Services, the 1111 platform, and their most recent venture, Book Bridges. Sameena and Scott maintain strictly professional and independent financial lives. They have never been, are not currently, nor do they plan to be financially interdependent or engaged in any romantic or domestic partnership. Both conduct their separate professional activities from 10 Lisa Street, Suite 2502, but operate as distinct households and businesses. Importantly, until April 4, 2022, Sameena Fernandes resided at 4 Lisa Street.
Revision of their April 4th, 2017 Wellbeing Agreement
After a long history of attempting to secure additional support for Sameena and Scott, which included sending referral request forms on at least seven occasions—starting on August 9, 2021, August 18, 2021, and most recently on July 4, 2023, and October 3, 2023—to get Sameena appointments with qualified therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists, with no responses from any of them, I initiated a significant conversation on January 19th. I suggested that she and Scott should collaborate more closely together for accountability and profitability purposes. This recommendation came after conducting more than 20 appointments with both parties and gathering all relevant data. Such a partnership would serve to compensate and accommodate each other's disabilities while simultaneously capitalizing on each other's strengths.
Following in-depth discussions over multiple meetings, we significantly revised their existing 1111 Well-being Agreement, originally dated April 4, 2017. This newly updated agreement was formally signed by all three of us in my office on April 4, 2023, highlighting its enhanced importance for Sameena and Scott's mutual well-being in light of their current medical conditions. For a more in-depth understanding of their collaborative approach and the medical considerations involved, please visit integritychoices.com.
Step 12 Work as Therapeutic Endeavor for Mental Health and Recovery
My letters explain why they generously dedicate their mornings seven days a week to offer free assistance to the public and why their outreach is genuine and devoid of upsells, hidden agendas, or ulterior motives. They are not only assisting others but the "step 12 derivative work" Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher engage in is far more than a charitable act. It serves as a crucial therapeutic practice that offers them immense therapeutic benefits. This work is integral to their ongoing mental health recovery journey.
Medical Work Compatibility Explained
My letters clearly establish the specific medical guidelines that allow Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher to excel in their roles. It not only outlines their unique limitations but also authoritatively sets the medical boundaries within which they can operate effectively. For more detailed information, please visit integritychoices.com.
Shared Special Accommodations
Ms. Fernandes and Mr. Gallagher have uniquely different mental disabilities and associated memory problems, which warrant special accommodation. I advised both of them to audio record all conversations they have with myself, Ontario Works, ODSP, and any other government body or legal representatives with which they may have agreements, and when this is not possible, I have advised them to only respond in writing to such organizations to help them remember and be responsible for their obligations and duties.
Exact Medical Conditions Impacting Employment Options for Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher
Ms. Fernandes struggles with memory problems, learning disabilities, social and anticipatory anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, PTSD, tendencies towards OCD, severe depression, suicidal thoughts, and obsessive worrying akin to paranoia. Mr. Gallagher suffers from medically diagnosed ADHD, Bipolar and Social Anxiety Disorder, and is being treated for a number of other physical health problems.
Both have uniquely distinct medical conditions that severely restrict their employment options, making traditional work settings counterproductive for their mental and physical well-being. Sameena's medical needs are similarly specific. Her limitations are much akin to Scott's, and forcing her into any form of work other than what has been medically approved and documented by myself would harm her well-being and recovery process.
The strict, limited, and medically approved parameters under which they can work make them best suited for self-employment, where they can operate as individual business owners in an unconventional work setting. This is consistent with my previous medical assessments stating that forcing either individual into traditional employment would be detrimental to their mental health and recovery processes.
For more comprehensive information on all the key components I discussed above regarding Sameena and Scott's situation and the circumstances that impede their ability to function effectively in society, visit www.integritychoices.com.
Urgent Call to Action for Supporting Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher
In light of the overwhelming challenges faced by Sameena Fernandes and Scott Gallagher—spanning mental, financial, and physical health—I extend an earnest plea to everyone taking the time to read this correspondence. I particularly direct this appeal to entrepreneurs, both digital and community-based. Your involvement, be it through a recurring patronage or other impactful gestures, holds the power to positively alter the courses of their lives.
For an in-depth exploration of all discussed topics regarding the unique difficulties impeding Sameena and Scott's full societal participation, and to find out ways you can engage, benefit, and participate in their work, visit www.integritychoices.com.
Thank you for your time and consideration.