Witness Testimony

Jody McPhee testified that her father received his second COVID-19 vaccine dose on May 22, 2021 and became critically ill within approximately 45 minutes. He was hospitalized and died six days later. She stated that medical staff discussed the timing of vaccination and reported the event through adverse reaction channels, and that a compensation claim is currently underway. She described hospital visitation restrictions during his final hours and stated that she believes the vaccine caused his death.
Following her father’s death, McPhee chose not to be vaccinated based on her faith. She testified that prior to the mandate she experienced workplace harassment related to her vaccination status and was later placed on leave for mental health reasons. While off work, her employer implemented a vaccine mandate. She submitted medical clearance to return and a religious exemption letter from her pastor, which was denied on the basis of undue hardship and client requirements. Her seven-year employment was terminated by email shortly thereafter. She stated she was not permitted to retrieve personal belongings from the workplace.
McPhee applied for Employment Insurance and was initially denied benefits, which she later successfully appealed on religious grounds. She described significant financial hardship, including loss of housing stability and reliance on family support, and reported receiving EI benefits in a lump sum more than a year after termination. She is currently part of a group wrongful dismissal action and has since started her own business. She concluded by emphasizing perseverance, continued legal pursuit of justice, and the importance of public dialogue.