I'm still not convinced that this is the best advice, since no one that has applied without status from within Canada (with an Outland application) has stepped forward to confirm that this IS possible. Many, including myself, feel that a person without status could be deemed inadmissible, unless they apply Inland.
Let the arguing commence...again!
At the very least, you should call an experienced immigration lawyer (not just a consultant) and ask him/her if this really is an option. Many lawyers offer a free phone consultation.
While this forum is filled with knowledgeable people that all want to help, sometimes we `assume' things that [in this case]
could have disastrous consequences!