Master Corporal Atkinson is seeking a section 56 exemption from the Minister of Health permitting him compassionate access to psilocybin mushrooms to treat his Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Treatment Resistant Depression, Treatment Resistant Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia, and Chronic Pain Syndrome. Master Corporal Atkinson served in the Canadian military for 25 years. His active duty service in Yugoslavia and Afghanistan was a violent and traumatic experience. It should be no surprise that it has taken a toll on his health. He has made great sacrifices for Canada and world peace.
Master Corporal Atkinson has, without success, tried all conventional treatments and medications to treat his health issues. In March-April 2019 he tried psilocybin mushrooms. It provided him with significant relief from both anxiety and depression. It dramatically improved his outlook. He feels peace and happiness now for the first time since he was young. His relationship with his wife and children is “100% better.” His relationship with the other veterans with whom he works is much better. It has been a miracle for him.
His application was accompanied by a letter from Dr. Michael Verbora of Field Trip Health indicating that Master Corporal Atkinson meets the inclusion criteria for psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy and does not have contraindications. Dr. Verbora states that psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy would be not just safe and efficacious for Master Corporal Atkinson, but failure to access this exemption could jeopardize his health. The test under s. 56 of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act is that access to the drug must be medically necessary. Master Corporal Atkinson meets the test.
Master Corporal Atkinson should not be treated as a criminal. He deserves better. If you support Master Corporal Atkinson then tell us you do. Thank you.