A Kamloops resident addressed city council on Tuesday to raise awareness about Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), a chronic and often misunderstood condition affecting individuals who experience severe health reactions to everyday chemicals.
Diane Czyzewski, who has lived in Kamloops for several decades, spoke about the impact of MCS on people’s lives and announced the formation of a local group to support those living with the illness.
“Kamloops prides itself on being an inclusive city,” Czyzewski told council, “but people with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity remain largely invisible and underserved because of the challenges posed by chemical exposures in public and private spaces.”
MCS causes a range of symptoms—including headaches, respiratory issues, skin reactions, and neurological effects—triggered by exposure to common products such as perfumes, cleaning agents, pesticides, and building materials. For some, these reactions are so severe they restrict basic activities like attending social events, visiting hospitals, or even enjoying time outdoors.
Czyzewski emphasized the urgent need for greater public understanding and accommodations, pointing to scientific research linking chemical pollutants to health problems in children and pets. She urged the city to consider scent-free or chemical-free spaces in parks, public buildings, and recreational facilities.
“Just as smoking restrictions were introduced to protect public health, it’s time to rethink policies around scented products and pesticides,” she said.
While the presentation was informational, Czyzewski encouraged residents to take part in a “one-week scent-free challenge” to better appreciate the daily chemical exposures that affect those with MCS.
She also called for improved accessibility and resources for people with MCS, especially those traveling to Kamloops for medical treatment.
The newly formed group’s Facebook page, MCS Kamloops, offers support and information for those affected by the condition.
Council thanked Czyzewski for her presentation, recognizing the importance of inclusion and public health awareness.
