Dear _______ :
I have been personally affected by multiple sclerosis, which is an often progressive and disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord. People with MS need federal government action urgently to gain more secure incomes.
Multiple sclerosis has a profound impact on the ability to earn a living. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 40, just when they are finishing school, starting careers and beginning families. Unexpected periods of worsening are followed by equally unpredictable periods of improvement - and then more deterioration. This takes a devastating toll on a person’s ability to stay in the work place.
I ask you to support three key changes in federal government policy to ease the financial burden for people affected by MS:
- Immediately, allow spouses to claim the Caregiver Tax Credit;
- Make Employment Insurance sickness benefits more flexible to allow people with MS to work part-time and receive partial benefits;
- Change the Disability Tax Credit to a refundable benefit, to provide income directly to people with MS and other disabling conditions.
I urge you to support these crucial steps to help people with MS and their families survive financially and give them hope for the future. Please champion these actions with your fellow MPs.
I will look forward to hearing how you will support action on MS.
Yours sincerely,
(Your name)
(Your address)
