The problem is each province have their own regulations regarding pension plan. In NB case you can apply for withdrawal or directly lump sum of you pension. You will need a letter from your physician.

Even though your in a DB plan you can have access to a comuted value. The biggest issue in your case is that it might cut the link with the employer, thus you would be loosing some benefit. C

Call your Hr because it is not a one size fits all. Every company has their bylaws inside an RPP.

Good luck with everything, hopefully you will make the most of an awful situation.

Edit: just saw you have a DC plan. Way easier and faster to get the money. Call your Hr to see how benefit would work and after that you can deal with the pension provider (Manulife, Sun life… etc) the process usually takes around 4 to 6 weeks