When I was first diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (new window), I wasn’t sure where to turn. I didn’t know anyone who had MS, or any other kind of autoimmune disorder (new window), for that matter. I started an on-line search to see where I might get assistance in the Ottawa (new window) area. I was thrilled to 
discover that there was an organization in Ottawa that helped people with disabilities find employment. I called the Neil Squire Society (new window) and spoke with Amanda about the Employ-Ability Program. After meeting with her face to face, she initially helped me get my resume updated, and gave me many names of other helpful resources for job searching. We had discussions and meetings as to what I wanted to do, and what I was able to do, in terms of employment.
Because I had recently graduated college with an Accounting and Payroll Administration diploma, that’s the area I was focussing on. I soon came to realize, that due to the constant fatigue, mobility problems, and brain fog I was experiencing, working full-time wasn’t something I would be able to do. Amanda helped me figure out that working part-time was the best solution for me. We continued to work together to come up with a good job search strategy for myself.
I attended Neil Squire Society’s weekly Wellness-for-Work sessions, given by Polly Beach. They were educational and thought-provoking. I loved having that connection with other people with similar struggles. We laughed and learned together, and I will always be grateful for the assistance of the Neil Squire Society.
Given my diagnosis, I made a decision to live as healthy as I possibly can, so I decided to incorporate essential oils and non-toxic cleaning products into my life. In January 2015, I signed on to become an independent distributor with Young Living Essential Oils (new window) through the Blue Spruce Club (new window). My house smells wonderful because I diffuse the oils daily, and using the cleaning products helps to make my home as toxic-free as possible. I believe in these products, which makes selling them a job that I enjoy.
– Cathy, Employ-Ability Program participant