Loss of Employment

Question

So I have a chronic health condition that goes in yearly waves. I have 10 months of amazing life without many side effects but then I go downhill really fast. Until I can get the care I need I barely function. That all being explained to say I lost my great job, which I loved, because I am in the down right now and cannot work 40 hours a week. Does anyone else have to deal with something like or have advice for my next adventure? I think it is about time I realize I know this will keep happening (there is no cure for what I have) and I need to find a job that works around it.

Barbara Sonin · Answer

What a terrible situation to be in. Unless you have a pattern of going downhill certain months of the year, it's hard to see what job could accommodate you. You might be best served to work through temporary agencies. Then you could work the months you're able to. The downside, of course, is not qualifying for unemployment insurance. You might, however, qualify for disability during those months.

Anonymous · Answer

I have chronic health conditions and was illegally forced out of my job by my employer because of it.  I fought back by filing a discrimination charge against my former employer with the EEOC, and ended up receiving a settlement that was able to help me start my own business.  I'm able to work at my own pace and take on only as much work as I feel I'm able to reasonably complete based on my current health problems.  I'm also able to have full control of my own schedule, so I'm able to meet with clients  when it is convenient for both of us.  I'm going this week to have carpal tunnel surgery on one of my hands to help substantially improve function, since I currently can barely use my right hand without constant pain, significant swelling, and almost constant numbness and tingling in my fingers and hand.  Once I heal from the first hand surgery, I'll have to go and have my left hand operated on for the same condition.  I also have a long list of many other health conditions besides just the issues I'm currently having with my hands.

I'm much happier working for myself now, as I'm able to do the things that I need to and still earn a living.  Going to work for yourself may allow you to work an overall reduced schedule and deal with your various health conditions, and still allow you to earn enough money to fully support yourself.

ANDREA HERRERA · Answer

So sorry to hear you're on the down turn. My 20 year old daughter suffers from a chronic illness as well and when she is symptomatic, its really difficult for her to get to work/college classes, or just do the basics.  However as a Human Resources professional I'm suprised to hear you lost your job because of your condition.  While not impossible (small company that isn't FMLA or ADA bound, not enough working time there, etc.), its still shocking that in this day and age a company would not make areasonable accomodation.

If you feel you were unfairly discharged I would go to the EEOC web site and file a claim.  They will do most of the heavy lifting in investigating, and there is no cost to file.  Moving forward, I'd be sure to search for jobs where your disability will be managed and where there are accomdations that will be made based on compliance requirements and company culture (i.e. find the best places to work if you have a disability and seek out employment at those companies).

In the meantime, rest and take care of yourself.  This too shall pass.

Jen Holsman · Answer

I know this largely depends on what type of work you do, but if possible, freelance or consulting in uour field might be the way to go! You can essentially decided day to day or client to client what you're able to handle.

Guadalupe Orozco · Answer

Definitely take care of yourself first, that is of course within what is attainable for you. Next, start the job hunt for flexible hour jobs, focusing on online work? Research has shown that if you're able to work from home. You live a happier and healthier life! Maybe its true for you too! Hope you get better and best of luck with your new adventure. Don't forget that every bump we hit in our lives is a bridge to new opportunities.

Marissa Taffer · Answer

Could you file for intermittent FMLA? This will protect your job and allow you to focus on your health when you need to.

Loss of Employment

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