I was extremely honoured to team up with Michelle Lomazzo on this important case.
More than 25 years after a firefighter died by suicide, his surviving family finally received recognition from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal (WSIAT) that his death was work-related.
The Case – Decision 1731/23
This firefighter dedicated over a decade of service to his community, from 1979 to 1992. His death came at a time when PTSD among first responders was not widely understood or acknowledged — times were so different then.
Although the WSIB initially denied the estate’s claim for survivor benefits, saying they were “too late,” the Tribunal concluded that this was a “just claim” and extended the time limit so the case could be heard.
The Evidence
Cases like this are challenging — not only emotionally for the family but also from an investigatory and evidentiary standpoint. Complicating things further, a much older version of the Workers’ Compensation Act (before it was amended to to address these types of cases) was applicable to this appeal.
We engaged Dr. Jacques Gouws, a well-respected expert in PTSD among Veterans and First Responders, to complete a thorough forensic psychological assessment. Dr. Gouws concluded that the evidence showed the worker had personality changes, emotional struggles, and alcohol use issues — all pointing to untreated PTSD caused by repeated exposure to work-related trauma.
It was this PTSD that ultimately led to his death by suicide.
Why This Win Matters
While justice in this case was delayed, it was ultimately achieved. This decision honours the worker’s memory and validates the reality that mental injuries — especially for First Responders — are real, serious, and deserve recognition.
Our Ongoing Mission
We will never stop pursuing justice for our First Responders and their families. You are not alone!