‘His life is in danger’: Striking Canada Post worker’s family struggling to afford his cancer drugs

The family of a Canada Post employee facing cancer is struggling to cover the high costs of his medication after his medical benefits were terminated by the Crown corporation amidst the ongoing labor strike. With more than 55,000 Canada Post workers on strike since November 15, negotiations between the corporation and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) have reached a standstill, leaving employees like Marc Caron without essential benefits.

Caron, who was diagnosed with cancer two years ago and recently learned of its return, requires medication that comes with a daily price tag of around $2,000. His wife, Manon Gignac, expressed shock and helplessness at the situation, emphasizing the dire need for support from Caron’s employer during this critical time.

Canada Post had issued a warning to employees three days prior to the strike, citing potential layoffs and changes to benefits and leave provisions. Jan Simpson, the national president of CUPW, condemned the corporation’s decision to terminate benefits for workers with serious illnesses, calling it unconscionable. Despite efforts by the union to negotiate the reinstatement of benefits, Canada Post remained firm in its stance.

Both sides, Canada Post and the union, acknowledged offering alternative solutions to maintain benefits during the strike but were unable to reach an agreement. While Canada Post reiterated its commitment to resolving the strike and reaching new collective agreements, the uncertainty and financial strain on employees like Caron continue to escalate.

Gilles LeVasseur, a business and law professor at the University of Ottawa, highlighted the importance of showcasing empathy and support for vulnerable individuals during labor disputes. He emphasized the need for employers to make accommodations to ensure the well-being of their employees, especially in cases of serious illness.

Gignac lamented the toll that the situation has taken on her family, robbing them of precious time together that should be focused on Caron’s health. She expressed a longing for a reprieve from financial worries and a chance to prioritize family bonding during this challenging period.

As this ordeal unfolds, it serves as a poignant reminder for unions to include safeguards in collective agreements to protect employees’ benefits during strikes. The story of Caron and his family underscores the human cost of labor disputes and the critical need for compassion and support in times of crisis.