AFP/File – The logo of social networking website 'Facebook' is displayed on a computer screen in London … BROMONT, Quebec – A Canadian woman on long-term sick leave for depression says she lost her benefits because her insurance agent found photos of her on Facebook in which she appeared to be having fun.Nathalie Blanchard has been on leave from her job at IBM in Bromont, Quebec, for the last year.The Canadian Broadcasting Corp. reported Saturday she was diagnosed with major depression and was receiving monthly sick-leave benefits from insurance giant Manulife.But the payments dried up this fall and when Blanchard called Manulife, she says she was told she was available to work because of Facebook.Shesaid her insurance agent described several pictures Blanchard posted onFacebook, including ones showing her having a good time at aChippendales bar show, at her birthday party and on a sun holiday.Blanchardsaid Manulife told her it's evidence she is no longer depressed. She'sfighting to get her benefits reinstated and says her lawyer isexploring what the next step should be.Blanchardtold the CBC that on her doctor's advice, she tried to have fun,including nights out at her local bar with friends and short getawaysto sun destinations, as a way to forget her problems.Manulifewouldn't comment on Blanchard's case, but did say they would not denyor terminate a claim solely based on information published on Web sitessuch as Facebook.
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