(no subject)

[sprinklethief]

my dad is trying to get me to go on temporary total disability until i get my spine under control (lumbar and neck). the pain is classified as debilitating (i'm assuming that's why they give me so much percocet) in my lower back and hasn't been examined by a neurosurgeon yet in my neck (in a few weeks - sooner if i can get in) tho they've already recommended me for surgery based on the MRI's and symptoms.

i'm in so much pain most of the time i don't get out of bed or off the couch unless i have to - then i get real good and doped up and top it with an adderall so i can keep going. it's a miserable existence, but i have to keep full time status at work in order to keep my benefits.

does anyone have experience with this or any advice?

Comments

[indy-skies.livejournal.com]

your benefit package at work should include short-term disability (or long term... they may classify it as either) benefits. you would still get paid (although sometimes at a reduced salary) and you would be able to stay home from work and you would be able to collect benefits while on disability. i'd phone your benefit provider - not the store you work for - but the actualy insurnce company and talk to one of their claims specialists about your situation. they will advise you on what to do and if you qualify. i'd say you do. and i'd follow your dad's advise and go for it. once you've gone through your insurance company then you can bring it up with your boss at work. in most cases the insurance company will be able to liason with your boss on your behalf in order to prevent discrimination. ask about that when you talk to them. a quick net search should provide you with the contact information you need to get ahold of your benefit provider. i know my benefits at through a company called Standard Life. you should have an employee number that would be your policy number - or if you have a prescription discount card your group policy number should be on that. you can also call your pharmacist to find out your group policy number - they will have it on file. good luck.