A campaign is underway to call for changes in the way the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board handles claims.
The Ontario Network of Injured Workers' Group is calling for better treatment of employees who get hurt at on the job.
At a news conference at the Unifor Labour Centre on Somme Ave., several injured-workers spoke out about their treatment.
Shannon DeWitt suffered a back injury on the job, after recovering, she re-injured her back working in another role.
Injured worker Shannon DeWitt (by AM800's Peter Langille)
She was diagnosed with degenerative disc disease, WSIB denied her claim calling it a "pre-existing condition."
DeWitt says the denial of her claim has had a terrible impact on her life.
"I went bankrupt last year on my birthday because they said they 'wouldn't pay me.' because WSIB says it was related, so they held off on my claim, for almost 11 months and I was without an income," she says. "I've had family walk away from me just because I have to take medication for pain. I struggle every day to take care of my special needs dog, who needs medication as well. I have problems getting my own medication sometimes because I can't afford it. I go to food banks now"
Carol Bristow was injured at her job and was denied claims, which she says makes her feel like she doesn't exist.
"Your whole world changes after that when you get injured, from your employees to your co-workers and friends" says Bristow. "They all look at you different, they don't see you as being productive anymore ... WSIB for the worker? I don't think so."
The province-wide campaign is focused on three demands: there should not be cuts based on the person being able to do a job that doesn't exist, doctors for the injured workers should be listened to, and there should not be cuts to benefits based on pre-existing conditions.
Ontario Network of Injured Workers' Groups petition drive underway (by AM800's Peter Langille)
Once they've gathered enough signatures, the ONIWG hopes to present a petition at Queen's Park to call for the government to take action.