Linda Sepp faces eviction any day now with no safe place to go
Posted on Apr 13, 2010 by Susie Collins in Blog, Disability Rights, Linda Sepp, MCS, Susie Collins
How does a disabled person with acute chemical sensitivity, who’s dependent on government assistance, prepare to move?
This photo is one of Linda's submissions for The Canary Report's 2010 calendar, expressing her despair at her unsafe housing, the toxic air, and lack of safe, nontoxic clothing. ©2009 The Canary Report, may not be republished without permission.
Those of you who follow The Canary Report know how important Linda Sepp is to our Canary Community. She’s a wealth of information about chemical and environmental sensitivities, and shares her knowledge freely through blogging, comments, posts on our forum, email, facebook, and her blog.
Linda carries the title of research assistant here at TCR, but in reality, she’s been my mentor for the past two years. TCR would not be half the blog and community it is without her. Linda is relentless in holding us all to the highest standard when it comes to dealing with toxic chemicals; she will not let anyone get away with skimming by an important issue or settling for a product that might be “okay” but in reality isn’t nontoxic. She makes us all better in our cause for toxic chemical policy reform, better in our cause for human rights as disabled people, and she helps us live safer, more productive lives.
But she does all this while being completely disabled by chemical sensitivities, fibromyalgia, and electro hypersensitivity, and living in a precarious, unsafe housing situation herself.
For years, she’s been the last resident in an Ontario neighborhood slated for demolition by a landlord wanting to raze the area to build new. The place is decaying, crumbling and frequently vandalized. Linda’s house has a leaky roof and basement, problems with mold, a contaminated water pipeline, and a leaky gas stove (now disconnected). She doesn’t want to be there, but where is she to go?
The problem is, how does a disabled person with acute chemical sensitivity, who’s dependent on government assistance, prepare to move? How does a disabled person with acute chemical sensitivity secure and install a whole house water filtration system so she can bathe and wash clothes properly (not just for everyday health but also in preparation for a move); secure safe clothing and a washing machine in the first place (there is a reason why she’s naked in the photo, she only has about five articles of safe, uncontaminated clothing to her name); conduct a housing search and then properly prepare that house for an uber sensitive person? How does she do that? And if she can’t do it herself, how does she find a knowledgeable advocate to help navigate the entire process?
On Linda’s blog, she writes eloquently about her dependence on government aid from a social service system that refuses to understand the complexity of chemical sensitivity. She describes the evidence she has from an environmental physician who declared her medical needs to include a nontoxic home with clean air and water (a simple, basic need you’d think, no?), and yet neither the medical nor government systems seem equipped to assist Linda in accessing the solutions to those needs. Once again, someone with chemical sensitivity is slipping through the cracks.
So here’s the kicker: Linda’s eviction date was April 4. Aside from a couple of valiant last minute efforts (which have failed to yield anything feasible), all the agencies and people you’d think should be there to assist—social workers, physicians, elected officials, the landlord—have all receded like water before the coming of a tidal wave.
Given that the April 4 eviction date was set by the court, the landlord has the power to put in motion the sheriff’s removal of Linda from her home. And should that happen, then what? The injustice of this situation is staggering.
###
04/24/10 UPDATE:
Last week, Linda’s Member of Parliament contacted her current landlord to see if a new deal could be reached on securing Linda a safe home, but the landlord declined, saying the April 4 eviction deadline was past so all offers were off the table. (As background, Linda’s landlord had offered to buy and renovate a rental home for Linda at a total cap of $200K, including the consultation of an eco-builder, but none of the homes found on the market met Linda’s criteria.)
Linda’s physician is in phone contact with her and has asked for more tests, which Linda has scheduled for next week.
Toronto Community Housing, which provides housing for low and moderate income households, prepared an apartment for Linda this past week. Linda says it won’t work because it does not meet her criteria; she has declined the offer.
If you enjoyed this post, please read these related stories:
- Linda Sepp launches a blog about her urgent housing needs The main purpose of Linda's blog is to send out a clarion call for help...
- Two tales about safe housing for the chemically sensitive Rich or poor, if you have Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, safe housing is precarious. On Thursday,...
- A victim of my own environment Post by Linda Sepp. The story of my life was published today, it would have...
- Please sign Italian petition for recognition of Multiple Chemcial Sensitivity Please sign this petition for the recognition of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity in Italy....
- Environmental illness and disability law proposed in Italy There's an Italian law proposal for environmental illnesses and disability. The proposed law includes definitions...
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Apr. 14, 2010
[...] patient Linda Sepp lives in Toronto, Ontario in Canada. Per the post below, from Susie Collins at The Canary Report, Linda is currently facing eviction. She is extremely ill. She has fibromyalgia as well. More [...]
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Maria
13. Apr, 2010
I’m in a similar situation. The difference is: I have the help of relatives.
If we lived in the same area we’d do this together, along with other sensitive people who are also looking for and even restoring places for the chemically sensitive.
I wish I could actually DO something. Empathy and anger and will and love isn’t enough. Not even money is enough if you have it but can’t count on people.
Susie Collins
14. Apr, 2010
You are right, Maria, that’s the big difference. It’s the people with MCS who have no support system that really suffer the most. This is where government should be there to help, but unfortunately is usually not in the case with environmental illness.
Mike
13. Apr, 2010
It is a tragedy that good people are put in such bad situations. My wife also suffers in unsafe living conditions and of course, like Linda everyone turns a deaf ear and a blind eye. We must continue to unite and support those who are trying to promote awareness and call out those who recklessly advocate toxic materials etc. Someone who is trying to help is James Van Raden, as we know he needs our votes to win 50 k for exactly the purpose of building affordable housing for those suffering with M.C.S. through the Pepsi challenge. Linda you are in our prayers, who can we call or write to show support for you. What are the names and addresses or emails of the people who are trying to fade out of the picture and not help.
Amy
13. Apr, 2010
Linda,
Been keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. I wish I knew of a safe place for you. Someday, we are going to have that safe place that we all dream about. A self sustainable farm, where we can grow organic food, breathe clean air and drink clean water.
Love and Hugs going your way,
Amy
Jeanne
13. Apr, 2010
Linda,
I’m so sorry you are in this frightening, stressful, mind-boggling situation. I wish I knew of a safe place for you.
Right now, I’m sending positive energy your way. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Thinking of you,
Jeanne
Steph
13. Apr, 2010
Susie – thanks for such a moving article on Linda’s behalf!
Linda – I have emailed my 3rd cousin in Ontario to see if she knows of anyone who can lend a helping hand.
Sending all available hope and good thoughts your way, Linda!
-steph
Susie Collins
14. Apr, 2010
That’s so kind of you, Steph! Let us know if she has any ideas or contacts. Much appreciated! xoxo
Rose Hollo
13. Apr, 2010
Linda, I am praying for you and sending positive energy.
I hope someone can step forward in your city and help you! I have similar issues, but not as severe, and it’s challenging. Cannot imagine how life is for you every day, not to mention with this eviction hanging over your head.
I”m in Northern Ohio…. Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help. You can find me on Facebook if you wish: Rose Hollo
Catherine Hollingsworth
13. Apr, 2010
HI, Linda,
Great feature piece….thanks, Susie.
Linda,I can’t stop thinking about you and your situation.It is so hard to see a good person, such as yourself, in this situation. How can others around you see you and not feel the pain?
I think the idea of doing a letter or phone campaign is great….and I can help with that, but how do we get you help right this very minute?
Do you have family? Is there another with MCS who may be able to help? Do you know of anyone with a chemical-safe camper you could try with many air filters? I imagine you have thought of this all and are still not able to figure it out.
The worst part, for me, is that I am trying to find a place to move, too. It’s another construction season and after 3 previous summers I have learned that I am on my own….I can’t trust the officials and.I can’t even sue for damages from the exposures and, just as you, there is literally nowhere to go. i do know how daunting it is without money, help, safe place to go, and no health to make the move yourself. Oh, the days when I could pack it up, drive the diesel truck myself, and unload it all…..get settled all while I was working, too.
Please, let’s all pray for safe housing very, very soon!
Linda, I will forward this to my Canadian friends……who knows, maybe someone has some clout or an idea to help.
I’ll keep praying for you.
Big hugs,
Catherine
Susie Collins
14. Apr, 2010
Thank you for sharing this with your contacts and friends, Catherine. You never know who might come up with a workable solution. The more people putting their minds to it, the better. Many thanks. I hope you, too, are able to find a safe place as well.
Susan E
14. Apr, 2010
Susie, do you or Linda have any ideas of ways we could help from afar? I’m afraid to mail something, because it might not get forwarded. Does she have a computer? Perhaps we could donate to a paypal account so that she would have a little cash to put toward a deposit on a new place, and maybe someplace can give her a short lease until she knows it could work. The place she’s in doesn’t sound like it’s worth to much of a fight, but there has to be something incrementally better in some microclimate in her town/city, if she can come up with a deposit and/or first month’s rent. And a very short lease, for now. Any ideas? Maybe send some of our well-laundered clothes to a PO Box, some pillowcases? Maybe flood the local human services place with emails, phone calls and letters? Or some of the local non-profits? Or a church? Evictions are stressful, and canaries don’t need stress.
Susie Collins
14. Apr, 2010
Thank you for your kind offer, Susan. Linda has a donation page set up here, it has a Paypal option http://lindasepp.wordpress.com/donate/ Every bit helps.
Sending her clothing is problematic (I have tried it without success), she has a page set up with specific organic items that would work– http://lindasepp.wordpress.com/2010/01/17/my-chemical-free-clothing-needs/
You might like to read through her blog, where she explains more details about her situation http://lindasepp.wordpress.com/.
Susan E
14. Apr, 2010
We need a foundation with a petty cash fund to help desperate canaries in need. And a think tank to go with it.
jacki
14. Apr, 2010
Linda, my love and prayers are going out to you..
Susie you hit it on the head
Canaries following through the cracks!!!!!!!
In the legal system, in the health care system,
in the disability system, the list goes on and on..
I am still hunting for a “job” without any assistance of any kind…no income for 15 months now…it is scary..
I am grateful for my home, and clothes..
I live in Northern Ohio wish she take a room or put her tent up in my yard…not sure if it would be safe enough..
this just makes me soooooooooooo “upset”…the public just doesnt get it…unless you have it…
grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr I will try to re-direct my energy into trying to come up with a game plan that might help…
xooxox jj
Susie Collins
14. Apr, 2010
Thank you, Jacki. I hope you find safe employment soon. xoxo
María
14. Apr, 2010
I’m with Susie E.
Mary
14. Apr, 2010
i too wish i could offer shelter, but can make a humble donation.
does one of us live in a warm climate (not moldy) where linda can tent on the land of at least? is linda able to leave canada? dos she even want to?
isnt it sad that after 25 intentional communities we’ve visited, there is only one i can recall that would be a place tor recommend for a fellow canary. its earthaven ecovillage in the mountains outside of ashvile, nc.
Susie Collins
14. Apr, 2010
Mary, Linda can’t leave Canada, and I think would not even be able to leave Toronto. She’s dependent on the income from social services there, and she’s not able to travel.
It’s astonishing that out of 25 intentional communities you found only ONE that’s safe!
María
14. Apr, 2010
Iceland in summer’s the best ever possible place for a mcs sufferer. I’ll never forget the days I spent there two years ago. Now I can’t try flying anymore, not for the time being at least. But it’s the only place I can think of. The best air, a culture of non use of harmful products at home, healthy food if it’s grown there and organic certified. It’s paradise. At least in summer.
I can’t understand no one in Canada can do anything for this lady. It’s unbelievable. Even if it was just a room at another mcs patient’s place, for a while. Of course the problem is, no none can stay forever at a place that’s not their own, with people who aren’t family.
Something needs to be done. I know what I want for myself. I’ll have help when I decide to give the big step and move away, and I’ve got help now for the time being. But being so far and alone.. The only thing I can think if is call social services’ attention there in the area, locally, and getting someone else with mcs there to lend a hand. And establishing a fund wouldn’t be a bad idea either. But you can’t set up funds for every mcs patient who is on their own out there
Susan E
14. Apr, 2010
Iceland might not be good at the moment with the volcano and the economy. Volcanos can spew chemical clouds, volcanic gases, like sulphur and worse. But let’s keep the brainstorming ideas coming, and only let Linda rule things out.
María
14. Apr, 2010
Iceland is very big
And about the economy, it’s not worse than in other places in spite of everything. It still has one of the best welfare systems in the planet. But I was only saying. I’ve been there, my best friend lives there, I study the language. My plan was to spend at least part of the summer there every year, but my ears problem doesn’t allow me to fly right now.
Mokihana
14. Apr, 2010
Susie,
Mahalo for the update on Linda’s life. Thanks also for the acknowledgement of Linda’s contribution to your life and the quality of Canary.
Dear Friend Linda, you continue to be in my prayers I know the angst of uncertainty that comes from not knowing where you’ll live. Through this comment I send you more prayers.
No, this is not okay in any way.
Blessings to you both,
Mokihana
Susie Collins
14. Apr, 2010
Thank you, Mokihana.You are one of our founding members, too, and know first hand how important Linda’s been to our canary community.
Mokihana
14. Apr, 2010
Jacki …
you’re right, “the public just doesn’t get it … unless you have it.” In examples small and ominous like Linda’s the reality of MCS continues to stagger.
Julia
14. Apr, 2010
I have to leave my apartment june 30th because the landlord wants her relative to live here- Have not been able to find any housing yet and because of my disability it is a effort to look.
I am praying for Linda. People do not get it- My landlord said- its easy to find a rental anywhere. praying for Linda- for all of us! J
Susie Collins
14. Apr, 2010
Julia, I’m so sorry to hear that you are in the same boat. I hope you are able to find a safe place before your deadline date. Please keep us posted on your progress. xoxo
Linda
14. Apr, 2010
I am very sad to hear about Linda and also Judy on facebook. I don’t know if Judy comes here, but I am sure others know her.
And I am sure both are so upset and appreciate all the love. And I know they just want a safe place.
I myself have had my times with some landlords. It got to a point that when we moved here where we are now, we had our daughter sign for us. Your name get s ruined especially when you have had several moldy homes.
Laws are supposed to be in place, but they really are not.
In one place we decided to not pay rent because we were on our third moldy place– or you could even call it our fourth– two were in the same building.
I called everyone in the world I could think of from the first home on– but to no avail.
My husband gutted the one we decided not to pay. The landlord had a lawyer that eventually went to jail for embezzling people. After gutting the place and putting ceramic tile, new kitchen, new bathrooms the landlord decided we never had a deal. After a year in court we lost, and I would see this man on the front page of our paper with the previous Governor.
It was a very disturbing time especially when they took my car cuz we lost the court battle, and I have not driven since 2001. When you have so many moldy places and spend your 401, life insurance, and have to replace your belongings at several places of course you are hurting financially.
So for me I will not stop until I see some change in the mold issue and the chemical issue. Then there is what happened to my mom.
So I am tired of the things the way they are in our gov’t, and I want change. But I try to be dignified when contacting them even though it is hard.
At one place we were a little late on our rent, and the sherrif did come and I was there alone. He had no concerns of my chemical problem. He was loaded with fragrance, and I was crying and trying to breath, and this man was so very mean. I had ten minutes to get some things and get out. There was snow on the ground, and I didn’t drive and my husband was actually at the bank paying the rent. He had told the landlord he would pay that day and it was okay– so they said…
There will be a time when history will tell the story of the sick and all the people that did work so hard and long to make our lives safer.
I am so sorry for Linda and Judy and all the others out there that have had this hand dealt to them.
I think the first thing Linda has to do is at least start to pack in case they do come. At one house I had just had sinus surgery and I was so sick and my husband had to find a place. For a while we stayed with relatives, but they were abusive and sprayed fragrance around the house on ocassion.
I am so sorry we have all had to meet under these circumstances. Hang in there girls. Linda
Susie Collins
14. Apr, 2010
Linda, I’m so sorry to hear about all your troubles! You’ve lived through hell, girl. Thank you for sharing your story, it’s important that people hear about the discrimination and suffering people with chemical injury go through. Bless you for your strong will and generous spirit! xoxo
Susan E
14. Apr, 2010
“Nobody ever became poor from giving.” -Anne Frank
Sandra Lee
14. Apr, 2010
My heart goes out to Linda. I am praying for a positive outcome for her. May she have access to a better situation easily without troubles or trauma. May she find a place where she can rest and rejuvenate fully.
Bill Stenwick
14. Apr, 2010
Susie,
I agree with Susan E and Maria about starting a foundation. This is really needed. I think things need to get prioritized in Linda Sepp’s case. She first needs a place to go. Once she is there than we can worry about funding washing machines and water systems, etc. She needs someone to assist her to move, then go from there. Don’t we have a canary in Toronto that could offer some assistance. I live in California and am too far away to really do much except give money. I don’t mind doing that but there has to be a plan and somebody in charge and someone on the spot to handle things.
Bill
jen
14. Apr, 2010
I know a few people who camped out to get better/well with mold/MCS problems.
One is Diane Ensign–who almost died at one point I believe. She lived outside for a year. She slept on a porch even in winter, with eight wool blankets and her dogs. She would go quickly in and out of the house for shower and food. Her husband had left her. Then pesticides were sprayed nearby and she went to Arizona and slept outside and lived outside. She cut her hair as she couldn’t wash it often enough.
Jonathan Lee Wright, who was sick from toxic black mold, slept outside for most of one year in Colorado, sometimes in sub freezing temps.
There is a young couple and the woman posts occasionally on the Phoenix Rising forum–they live in a tent on their uncle’s property. They can’t go in the house.
I was reading about yurts–which can be quite warm, and could be made nontoxic with the right wood and good eco wool, I believe. Perhaps there are innovative solutions.
I haven’t found nonmoldy housing in Atlanta yet, and we spent a lot of $$…two places were bad, moved out of one in three weeks and the other in one week. I am not sure what we will do longterm as its beautiful but very humid here and mold is a big problem. It really seems you have to build your own house or try a nontoxic trailer.
Steph
14. Apr, 2010
I just wrote to the following on Linda’s behalf and would encourage you all to do the same.
The Holmes Foundation:
http://makeitright.ca/Holmes_Foundation/contact_us.php
Premier Dalton McGuinty
https://www.premier.gov.on.ca/feedback/Default.asp?Lang=EN
Member of Parliament Honorable Jack Layton
Layton.J@parl.gc.ca
Member of Parliament Honorable Bob Rae
Rae.B@parl.gc.ca
Steph
14. Apr, 2010
You can also write to the Green Party on Linda’s behalf –
info@greenparty.ca
and
admin@gpo.ca
Susie Collins
15. Apr, 2010
Steph, thanks so much!
Susie Collins
14. Apr, 2010
Thank you, everyone, for your kind and thoughtful comments.
linda
14. Apr, 2010
Thank you everyone for your outpouring of love and support. I’m praying that everyone in similar circumstances also finds some practical support and that a day will come when we don’t have to endure these kinds of hells anymore, and that safe housing exists for all who need it.
linda
14. Apr, 2010
Sorry I forgot to mention that I have to stay in Ontario as I have no other source of income now except for provincial benefits. I’ve also had almost all my energy depleted from circumstances and countless unavoidable exposures so cannot survive in a place that’s been cleaned or repaired with chemicals or had pesticides used in it, or survive outside or in my car. Don’t even have any safe clothes to be seen in public with. Haven’t had safe tap water for over a year, I’ve been ordering glass bottled spring water for food and drink but can’t afford to and/or can’t lift enough to wash clothes much with it. I know someone who could make a place safe for me (took a long time to find someone who knows how to deal with severe MCS/ES) but we found him too late and now there’s no resources or place for him to work with. This province has absolutely no accessible housing or services for people with severe MCS/ES, and knowledgeable support groups are also run by people struggling to survive, while other groups know nothing, so practical resources just don’t exist. I’d like to live to see this change, not just here but everywhere.
lisa cherry
14. Apr, 2010
Please tell me if you do find a place and I can help you with the water purchases.
I almost bought a Brita today till I read the back–it proudly said that it doesn’t filter out all the Fluoride because it’s good for the teeth (their excuse for not being able to remove all the fluoride!).
Please also tell me if you’d like to try urine shots (uses your own urine!). I have the materials (filters etc.) and these shots have helped many (and have greatly helped my brain, so far).
All the best,
Lisa
Lisa Cherry
14. Apr, 2010
I also have nowhere to live in 2 weeks, but since it will be summer soon I may find any place and live with all the windows wide open–works in Toronto where it’s usuallty boiling over the summer.
Then of course, I’m into the same homeless problem in the Fall, but at least my idea may work for the summer. I hope so!
The problem is, if there’s no breeze coming in the windows.
Linda may try to find a place near the lake –at least short term–where it’s windier. I may try look there also, though there’s not alot of short term things there unless one shares a place with another person.
Julie Lloyd
16. Apr, 2010
Oh Linda, my heart bleeds for you. What a dreadful situation in every respect. As if it’s not bad enough to be suffering as you are, to be evicted is the final insult. Unfortunately I’m too far away to help (Australia). Although I can’t provide you with shelter it may help a little to know that you’re not alone in what you’re going through. I’ve been out of my home for 6 weeks as a result of water entering my home during a severe storm. Mould moved in, took over and forced me out. Meanwhile I suffer daily, out in a toxic world with no safe place to go, getting sicker and sicker. Everything I try so far is a dead end. The despair of being homeless is so crushing to the soul. Only hope keeps me going. I so hope and pray that someone will help you. Hang on Linda, there’s still hope even though you can’t see it at the moment. Try to stay strong x
celia
16. Apr, 2010
I am sorry, Linda. I will be praying for you. I wish I knew someone in Canada, but I don’t.
I will contact the people provided in the links above–
celia
16. Apr, 2010
Susie, you mentioned that it was difficult for you to send clothing to Linda–
I noted the site that makes the clothing Linda can handle (after several washings)–
Is there a way?
Is there someone who can receive things for her?
And do you have an update on Linda? I am only seeing this today for the first time–
any information would be appreciated–
Susie Collins
16. Apr, 2010
Aloha Celia, Thank you for your concern. I sent Linda warm clothing from my own closet, but because she does not have safe water or a safe washing machine in her current home, she was unable to prepare those items for her own use. Currently, she uses bottled water to wash out her few safe pieces of clothing, but she must do that sparingly because the cost adds up quickly.
Linda faces eviction at any time, but is still in her home this week.
celia
17. Apr, 2010
I see; so the situation is such that her living place has to be arranged (safely) before she can collect the things she needs–
Falling through the cracks is the best way to describe it; the ‘system’ is not set up for the needs of those of us with MCS, especially people who are acutely ill.
what she needs is a safe home, safe water for washing–etc.
There are people in Canada who build cob and straw bale homes; yes, I know some people can’t handle straw, but these homes are the ultimate ‘natural’ place–
if done properly.
Mud plasters.
I don’t remember the names, but I will look for information; such a home could be very quickly put up, if land could be found–
and a very small place could be built–
let me see what I can find–
years ago my husband and I were going to build me a straw bale home, but we found it impossible here in the states–
yet, in Ontario, I know it has been done quite a bit–
straw bale homes can be put up VERY quickly–
I’m not trying to raise hopes, but perhaps hopes need to be raised–
celia
17. Apr, 2010
http://www.osbbc.ca/
this is what I found, so the group is still operating–
it’s obvious that Linda needs a Toronto-based advocate; I will contact these people and tell them about her–
finding the land would be the most difficult issue, I am afraid–
celia
17. Apr, 2010
Linda,
I’m sorry I was talking to you in third person.
I hadn’t seen your comments, so I had the idea you weren’t on a computer, possibly because of the eviction issues–
then I went back and saw that YOU commented–
I apologize for talking to Susie ABOUT you; it wasn’t intended as a slight at all–
everything else applies–
I had an idea you might be in an interim place and unplugged–
Still praying for you–
I hope you don’t mind that I gave the straw bale people a link to your blog–
they are VERY open-minded about the envrionment and health, so, who knows.
Vickie Fowles
17. Apr, 2010
My heart goes out to you Linda. I cried when I read your blog. I would like to help. Unfortunately, my husband and I are both disabled and on a limited income.
I agree that we really need a foundation. How can we start one?
linda
18. Apr, 2010
It breaks my heart to see how many others are also in desperate need of safe housing. And how difficult it has become for some of us to find or access.
I’m at a loss for words right now, something is affecting my brain, but I wanted to say how much I appreciate everyone’s concern and efforts to help.
It seems I have another week to find a solution before the sheriff is called.
linda
19. Apr, 2010
I have received formal notice that I have to leave by noon Monday April, 26th.
DivKath
19. Apr, 2010
Hi Linda,
Can we do anything please?
Is there One useful person we can write or phone, who will truely concern for your saftey?
I know the media are interested, do you want some one to re-contact them? if so do you the contact details please?
Please ask anything Linda , and if we can we will do it.
Can we contact the sheriff, to let him or her know the serious health problems you face with eviction?
If you give me details I will email and phone.
What if you give one email contact and everyone on this page and everyone else we can ask to do so, emails again?
Will your TV reporters be interested, I will contact them and the newspaper if you provide contacts.
Can we get your green party to stage a protest ?
If you give me their contact I will email them.
Anything else Linda or anyone can think of, if I can do it, I will.
Do you think you can you surive with a carer in a tent in the forest?
If so, how can a carer be organised?
I wish I could personally help you Linda, failing this, I vow to continue educating on the dangers of toxic chemicals and environmental illness, till I draw my last breath on this Earth, or the chemical use stops.
Light Light Light
Div Boyes
Posted by Linda 19 April 2010
I have received formal notice that I have to leave by noon Monday April, 26th.
linda
21. Apr, 2010
Thank you so much… I have thought of one other person who might respond to emails:
The Honourable David C. Onley is a champion for people living with disabilities. He will raise awareness about disability issues throughout Ontario. His own experience with polio and post-polio syndrome, his successful career as a broadcaster, and his appointment as Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, have made him a very inspiring role model.
http://www.lt.gov.on.ca/en/ProtocolCeremony/CommunityRole.asp?nav=3&sub=3
When writing to the Lieutenant Governor, address the letter to:
The Honourable David C. Onley, O.Ont.
Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
E-mail address: lt.gov@ontario.ca
canary mary
21. Apr, 2010
linda,
you are in our hearts and prayers.
so many of us want to help, some of us feel helpless, some commit to doing more for the cause, some make concrete suggestions and offers to help. we are part of your community and send our love.
please give us an update as you are able.
caring for you,
amry
mary
Div (Kevin) Boyes
22. Apr, 2010
Hi Linda,
I have sent the following email to:
The Honourable David C. Onley, O.Ont.
Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
E-mail address: lt.gov@ontario.ca
Light Light Light
Div
copy of sent letter
22 April 2010
To:
The Honourable David C. Onley, O.Ont.
Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
From:
Div Boyes
Email: todivi@yahoo.co.nz
Postal: PO Box 477
Westport, South Island
New Zealand 7866
Westport, South Island
New Zealand 7866
22 April 2010
Re:
Support Letter for: Linda Sepp, Ontario Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Safe Housing
Dear Honourable David C. Onley,
Thank You kindly for your time in considering this support letter for Linda Sepp, whose contact is:
urbanfengshui@hotmail.com
N.b. In a seperate email, I have sent the below letter as a PDF file attachment.
My name is Div Boyes from New Zealand. I like Linda Sepp, suffer from chemical injury and chemical sensitivity. For me it is nearly 20 years, with the last few years my sensitivity and illness from exposure to common chemicals like herbicide, (even at very low levels), has greatly increasing.
Now I am made very ill, even with very low level exposure to commonly used chemicals like herbicide and pesticide, through to fragranced products such as laundry products and perfume, aftershaves, etc.
My medical specalist, Dr Bill Glass, Neurotoxicity and Occupational Medicine Specialist, of Christchurch, New Zealand, diagonised me as having; Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, (MCS).
.
From MCS, I have lost my job and ability to work in the main workforce. I have been put on an Invalids’ Benefit and have to avoid all chemical exposure, which is very very dificult to do.
I am retraining to work from home doing an online organic produce store. My partner and I hope to be able to open it soon. http://www.livingorganics.co.nz/ is our website address.
The illness that all MCS people suffer from under exposure to commonly used everyday chemicals is very real and can be life- threatening in some cases.
For MCS information/description please see:
A major peer-reviewed paper on multiple chemical sensitivity by Professor Martin L. Pall, published Oct 23, 2009 as chapter XX in “General and Applied Toxicology, 3rd Edition” (John Wiley & Sons).
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), is an epidemic caused by toxic chemicals
http://www.ei-resource.org/news/multiple-chemical-sensitivity-news/multiple-chemical-sensitivity:-a-disease-caused-by-toxic-chemical-exposure/
Many countries throughout the world are now recgonising Environmental Toxicity Illness as a real condition, where those affected need support and help. Please see below for references to this.
Re: Help Please With Safe Housing for: Linda Sepp.
Linda Sepp who has very extreme Multiple Chemical Sensitivity is about to be evicted from her home and has received formal notice that I have to leave by noon Monday April, 26th 2010.
http://www.thecanaryreport.org/2010/04/13/lindasepp/
Despite great effort on Linda’s part to try and locate somewhere to safe to live, where she will not be made ill by the chemicals in the house construction materials or surrounding chemical use, she remains without a solution.
Her situation is desperate and it is my feeling she will die of MCS chemical toxicity if put out on the street. She currently lives a housebound life, and the only water she has is glass flagons of spring water, many of which she can not afford.
Linda can not tolerate wearing clothes which have the slightest chemical content in them, and as she does not have water available to wash clothes, she is now even without a complete set of clothes.
.
Honourable David C. Onley, it is beyond my power to personally help Linda, and all other attempts have failed so far, so I ask you please, look at Linda’s situation, and Please David Please, help her.
Linda needs to be able to stay where she is, untill a safe place can be found for her, and she will probably need help with this too please.
Linda and many many of us work tirelessly for the benefit of all, by continually educating about the very real health dangers of toxic chemicals, with the focus to inspire all people in the world to use non-toxic products and methods.
We do all this because we have come to know the absolute truth about toxic chemical danger, and we do all this without goverment or corporate backing.
We are asking you to help us please shoulder this mighty burdeon of worldwide education, that we carry, by acting for Linda Sepp, where none of us currently can.
I would like to thank you in advance please, because Linda needs you to help her at this moment.
May God Guide us all.
If I can supply any further information, I am more than happy to so. Please feel free to contact me at my above email address.
Once again thanking you so kindly for your time here
Kind Regards
Div Boyes, New Zealand
cont.
Div(Kevin) & Kath Boyes
22. Apr, 2010
“CORRECTION“ of above Email Address that was given
Hello Linda I have just sent support letter to:
The Honourable Deb Matthews
Minister of Health and Long-Term Care
(tel) 416-327-4300
Email: ccu.moh@ontario.ca (CORRECT)
The Honourable Madeleine Meilleur
Minister of Community and Social Services
(tel) 416-325-5225
Email: Madeleine.Meilleur@ontario.ca
Div (Kevin) Boyes
22. Apr, 2010
cont.
Copy of sent letter – part 2
List and info of some countries who have recognised Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), as a serious illness triggered by the environment.
Canda – 15 June, 2007
The Canadian Federal Government and national bodies have recognized Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) under the term, environmental sensitivities, and has developed a Policy on Environmental Sensitivities.
http://www.chrc-ccdp.ca/legislation_policies/policy_environ_politique-en.asp
USA – 02 February 2009
As at February 02, 2009 the Governors of more than 43 States in the US, have signed “Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)/Toxic Injury (TI) Proclamations”, for the awareness of this devastating environmental illness, which is considered as a disability under the Law “The Americans with Disabilities Act”. and has been recognized under Social Security Administration, Department of Housing and Urban Development, (HUD), the US-Access Board
http://www.mcs-america.org/index_files/proclamations.htm
Australian – Feb 2010
The Australian Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA), through the Office of Chemical Safety and Environmental Health (OCSEH) and the National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS), has prepared a draft scientific review of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS).
http://www.nicnas.gov.au/Current_Issues/MCS/MCS_Draft_Report_Feb_2010_PDF.pdf
Chemical sensitivity – MCS is recognized as a disease and as a physical disability in Germany. The disease is coded at ICD-10 with T78.4 as an organic disease.
Austrian and Japan now also recognise Multiple Chemical Sensitivity as a real condition which can cause illness of varing degrees up to leathal.
The French Government is looking into Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), as a disease triggered by the environment
WASHINGTON GOVERNOR DECLARES MAY 2010 AS MULTIPLE CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY (MCS) AWARENESS MONTH – January 08, 2010
Washington Governor Christine O. Gregoire signed a proclamation declaring May 2009 as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Awareness Month in Washington State.
As stated in the Proclamation, people of all ages in Washington have developed a condition known as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) as a result of a single massive exposure or repeated low level exposures to toxic chemicals and other irritants in the environment.
MCS is a chronic condition for which there is no known cure, and symptoms include chronic fatigue, muscle and joint pains, rashes, asthma, headaches and other respiratory and neurological problems.
The Governor also states that reasonable accommodations and raising awareness of MCS can provide opportunities for people with this disability, that people with MCS need the support of family, friends, co-workers and society as they manage their condition and adapt to new life styles, and the Governor is urging all citizens to support understanding, education, and research of MCS.
http://www.mcs-america.org/washington2010MCS.pdf
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) Summary:
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is by now a terrible worldwide epidemic, increasing daily at an alarming rate.
An estimated 16% of the US population suffers from MCS.
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is an environmental illness triggered by exposures to toxic chemicals in the environment, the direct consequence of global pollution.
Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) has spread to USA, France, Canada, Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Norway, Brazil, China, Japan, India, Pakistan, United Kingdom, Ireland, and many more countries.
Susie Collins
22. Apr, 2010
Div and Kathryn, thank you for all your support for Linda.
Div(Kevin) & Kath Boyes
22. Apr, 2010
New Contacts provided.
Have just had the following reply to my above letter:
I am responding to your message regarding Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Safe Housing on behalf of the chief of Staff of the office of the Lieutenant Governor. I am sorry for the circumstances in which Ms. Sepp finds herself.
The role of the Lieutenant Governor is a non-partisan and apolitical one, and therefore His Honour cannot hear the details of this situation or intervene in matters that are the responsibility of elected officials at any level of government. In this instance Ms. Sepp should bring her concerns to the attention of the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care and the Minister of Community and Social Services who can be found at the following coordinates:
The Honourable Deb Matthews
Minister of Health and Long-Term Care
Hepburn Block
80 Grosvenor Street, 10th Floor
Toronto, Ontario
M7A 2C4
(tel) 416-327-4300
Email: ccu.moh@ontario ca.
The Honourable Madeleine Meilleur
Minister of Community and Social Services
Hepburn Block
80 Grosvenor Street, 6th Floor
Toronto, Ontario
M7A 1E9
(tel) 416-325-5225
Email: Madeleine.Meilleur@ontario.ca
I trust this information will be of assistance.
Glenda Milrod
Research and Correspondence Coordinator
Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
Main Legislative Building
Queen’s Park
Toronto, Ontario
M7A 1A1
Direct Line: (416) 325-7784
Facsimile: (416) 325-7787
Website: http://www.lt.gov.on.ca
Steph
22. Apr, 2010
— On Tue, 4/20/10, Green Party of Canada Info Centre wrote:
Dear Steph
Thank you for drawing our attention to this critical health issue. I am amazed that there is no medical course of action available for people such as Linda. By this I mean, no housing and prescribed clothing, household materials etc. as required medically. It may seem odd, but what crossed my mind was Habitat for Humanity. Would they consider building such a house that would accommodate several residents in a chemically free environment? Could they build it? Would the government be willing to work with Habitat for the extra expense?
This condition is tragic and very sad.
The Green Party of Canada, apart from advancing its broad policy on reducing toxic chemicals in our environment, is not in a position to assist further. See http://greenparty.ca/node/13339
Paul Kompass
Green Party of Canada InfoServices Ottawa
Div(Kevin) & Kath Boyes
23. Apr, 2010
“CORRECTION“ of above Email Address that was given
Hello Linda I have just sent support letter to:
The Honourable Deb Matthews
Minister of Health and Long-Term Care
(tel) 416-327-4300
Email: ccu.moh@ontario.ca (CORRECT)
The Honourable Madeleine Meilleur
Minister of Community and Social Services
(tel) 416-325-5225
Email: Madeleine.Meilleur@ontario.ca (CORRECT)
maria
24. Apr, 2010
What I don’t understand is how neither a friend or relative have already prepared a room for Linda. This couold have been done in a matter o months: cleaning the right way, putting in her used furniture, an air purifier, etc. I’ve lived like that for five months going six now, in my parents’ place while I was searching for a new place. Or if there aren’t relatives willing to help, then another mcs sufferer and their family. Someone out there in Toronto MUST have a place she can go while a permanent place is looked for, for God’s sake!
Is NO ONE willing to help in a REAL, PRACTICAL way??? I don’t get it!
Susie Collins
24. Apr, 2010
Hi Maria, Linda actually has had several options made to her, including an offer by her landlord to buy and prepare a place for her. Even now this week she has options offered by Toronto social services. Unfortunately, as a universal reactor, none meet her criteria.
maría
24. Apr, 2010
That’s why it’s a shame that no one with mcs can lend a hand and have her stay at their place for a while until something else is arranged. But I understand it’s a huge responsibility.
Susie Collins
24. Apr, 2010
Update:
Last week, Linda’s Member of Parliament contacted her current landlord to see if a new deal could be reached on securing Linda a safe home, but the landlord declined, saying the April 4 eviction deadline was past so all offers were off the table. (As background, Linda’s landlord had offered to buy and renovate a rental home for Linda at a total cap of $200K, including the consultation of an eco-builder, but none of the homes found on the market met Linda’s criteria http://lindasepp.wordpress.com/2010/01/15/my-list-for-the-quintessential-safe-home/ .)
Linda’s physician is in phone contact with her and has asked for more tests, which Linda has scheduled for next week.
Toronto Community Housing, which provides housing for low and moderate income households, prepared an apartment for Linda this past week. Linda says it won’t work because it does not meet her criteria; she has declined the offer.
linda
25. Apr, 2010
Susie gave you the very short and frustrated version of events there.
Despite trying to make something work, there have been many obstacles. My MCS is very severe.
I react to the chems in tap water so cannot wear clothes washed with it (and haven’t been able to afford whole house water filtration despite needing it for over a year). I cannot wear my safest sandals for more than a few minutes without my skin and muscle being affected. So, I have no clothes I can wear out, and this also means that the chemical residues in floors, walls, etc, will be more than I can live with. I haven’t used chemical cleaners on my floors here in 20 years, the walls haven’t been painted in at least 12, the exposures that have affected me here blow in from outside my unit (the 2nd floor of a 3 story house).
I’ve been here deteriorating since 2006 when I was already so severely affected that the house-hunting then made me crash for months and that was topped off by 4 rounds of asphalt on the road, in front as well as a slew of other serious exposures that I was unable to escape.
I very nearly died and it has taken all my efforts to survive, to stay alive, in hopes that all the time that was passing could allow something safe enough to be created, as it was becoming increasingly clear that everything already out there was not going to allow me to live. I don’t have the physical reserves I used to have. They’ve been depleted several times over.
The offer from the landlord seemed great on paper, yet they wouldn’t pay an expert within the budget, and it took till the end of November to have a qualified expert agree to work without pay but for a bonus after the fact. We discussed what needed to be done and determined that without a new build, we’d have to gut and rebuild a good deal of the interior of any existing place. He created a list of “bones” that a house would need to have to make it worth gutting and rebuilding for me. And the area could not have any sources of major pollution, so that I could be outside as much as possible, especially if there needed to be more offgassing etc.
By the time he came on board there was 3 feet of snow in many places in the province and the market was shutting down for the holidays. When things started thawing a bit all we found were places with major pollution nearby, or places that did not have the “good bones”, or they were too expensive, or not empty. The average price of a house in this province is $333,000.
There was one place that seemed a possibility, but it was a real dump inside, and he was out of the country for a few weeks at the end of my deadline period. I was also told it was too far for him to travel to personally oversee any work. That meant it could not be done safely, if at all.
After the deadline I was contacted about a place that was built for and by someone with EI, but it was a 1bdrm house and $40,000 over budget. It also needed a wall built to create a 2nd bedroom as it was open concept and I need the 2nd room to keep many of my things in (there was no other storage there). Admittedly the bathroom seemed big enough to throw a single cot into so I could have also slept in there.
The MP contacted the landlord about this option but it was decided that it was well over budget and there-fore a no go.
Toronto Housing did find a 1 bedroom apartment that they could have washed down with baking soda for me. It was on the 2nd floor of a many unit building, and even if they agreed to wash the stairs and the 2nd floor hall with safer products, the residues from other people would have meant that I would have become a prisoner in the unit, with no chance of ever walking out. The bldg also has several wireless antennas on the roof which affected me merely being driven past them last year, and I’ve become more EMF/EMR sensitive since then.
I have not committed any crimes, I have not murdered anyone or stolen millions of dollars… yet I was expected to voluntarily accept what amounts to a prison cell where I would have been tortured 24/7 with chemical residues and EMF/EMR from within the unit and from outside the unit. I would not have survived the move, I’d never walk out of there alive, and no hospital room in this province was willing to prepare a safe enough room for me in advance.
To me it seemed like a waste of energy to have people go to all the work to move me there if it’s just to die.
My criteria developed because of the severity of my MCS/ES. People who have not spent months near death (not merely thinking like you’re going to die as with a bad flu, or after “a” bad exposure, but having several bad exposures when already depleted…) have no way of understanding.
I keep having people get upset with me for not accepting what has been offered, they tell me to think more positively. If that’s all it took, I would have been out of here years ago. I’d also be rich now, I’d have built MCS villages in every part of every country.
I was willing to accept palliative care when in the winter it was looking like nothing was going to work out. But one of the team members kept telling me to imagine a happy life with my cats (while they were trying to get me a safe room that I wouldn’t be able to leave to pee or shower or cook, wouldn’t be able to use my computer in as it would offgas too much, would have been a prisoner -and to have 3 cats in there with a litterbox and cat food? The visualization was not working for me so I started imagining being happy with the cats in a place I could LIVE and not die. But all that was coming my way were places I could die.
Wishful or positive thinking and fear do not make a person with severe MCS (who has already lived through several rounds of making a home safer and losing much of everything that anyone can lose) more able to survive exposures to chemicals and other substances that disable the brain and body. The body cannot “mask” or adapt when the load is too great.
A few people who have survived have all had able and willing close friends or family to take care of all the other details. I do not have this. Most people in my position have already died. They don’t live long enough to have their story told.
As the reality of the housing situation has developed, I’d already lost contact with most previous “normal” friends, and my family members are not in any position to do much to help. The people who have tried to help have all been brick walled by lack of finances, resources, systemic obstacles and toxic chemicals.
MCS/ES is a recognized disability and as such, there should be some appropriate accommodation in the world out there for us. Right now there is nothing here. There is no health-care, no housing, no home-care, no safe appliances, technologies, or repair people, no funding for life support systems like adequate water filtration, etc. We are abandoned to die if we cannot be shoved into a toxic box to live… well, we’ll all be shoved into a toxic box one way or another.
So while there are people who have been trying to help, they have not had the tools or resources that are needed to help. I am without almost every single practical support that they have tried to arrange for me. And the few supports (like getting the heat back on and side door garbage pickup) that they did arrange were plagued with problems.
The oxygen came full of chemical residues and issues that took weeks of recovery time and offered no benefit…
My food (organic veg from a farmers market and dry goods from a health food store) has been brought to me for 3 years now by my over 80 yr old father who’s health has been declining since his last surgery in the fall, and more recently by another friend who I met online. I don’t have people able to shop or search for other needs I have, and most of the time I am unable to pursue much myself. Most of my enquiry emails go unanswered and using the phone can be very painful and often disables me for the whole day.
So when I’m told, or even encouraged to accept that all I can have is a toxic prison cell where I will be tortured 24/7 by exposures to things that disable me, where I won’t be able to think clearly, and I won’t be able to get out of bed to feed the cats or prepare my own food, or take the litter and garbage down the hall to the chute, but that they will try to get me help, when in 3 years no-one could arrange for safe water and clothing, or help me cook and clean, etc, then pardon me for turning down what would amount to a horrible death, imprisoned and tortured for crimes I did not commit. I cannot see how that is in my best interest. I don’t see how that is in anyone’s best interests.
I am not afraid of death. I just don’t want to die in horrible pain with a mind that is poisoned from toxic exposures. I’ve already very nearly died. I’ve volunteered in palliative care, and been there with people who are dying. In many ways death would be a relief, IF I can die with a clear mind and conscience. If indeed my only options are death by a toxic house or apartment (I would have turned down a toxic million dollar mansion too) or homelessness, then perhaps someone will drive me somewhere with a view so I can die outdoors, but at least with a clear mind instead of one poisoned by toxic chemicals.
If the powers that be have determined that I don’t have enough value to be protected, safely housed and appropriately cared for, that people like me (and many of you) are not worth saving, that it’s ok to discard honest disabled people who care about the welfare of others, while bailing out crooks in financial and industrial circles, and if there are others who have the means to be doing something for chemically injured people, but instead choose to do something easier, then good luck to everyone.
Susie Collins
26. Apr, 2010
Thanks for the detailed update, Linda.
“We need to consider how our actions, in affecting the environment, are likely to affect others. This is often difficult to judge; but it is clear that we are the only species with the power to destroy the earth. Birds and insects have no such power, nor does any other mammal. Yet if we have the capacity to destroy the earth, we also have the capacity to protect it. I believe we have an urgent responsibility to do so.”– His Holiness the Dalai Lama
celia
26. Apr, 2010
Linda, I am sorry.
Susie, those are good words–
Gwyn
29. Apr, 2010
Hi Susie,
Have you heard anything about Linda? My sister and I donated money on Pay Pal, but neither one of us got a confirmation from Pay Pal that money had been sent. Was wondering how Linda is and if anyone is having problems donating to pay pal
linda
29. Apr, 2010
Hello Gwyn, thanks so much for mentioning this here. I’ve been so caught up with my daily situation that I forgot to check PayPal. My apologies and also my sincere thanks and appreciation to you and a few other people for your donations as I can pay for this months spring water now.