Extra Sick Time
Sun, November 29, 2009 1:00 AM
I was wondering if anyone knew if it was at all possible to request extra sick time at work. My current job discourages unpaid time off. We have paid time off and not separate sick days. I planned a vacation at the end of the year and my boss told me that if I get sick before my scheduled vacation then I cannot take it, even though I planned it back in September. If you call out sick they do not give you the option to take the day unpaid. In my mind that just encourages people to come to work sick. I also will be having surgery next year and the time I will need to take off will use up all my PTO before i even earn it all. I am enrolled in short term disability however it doesn't kick in until I have been out for 15 days. My boss knows I have crohn's and colitis and I don't feel she is being understanding of the fact that I cannot control how frequent I am sick or that I need surgery. I live and work in Massachusetts if that helps. Thank you.
Joined Jan 7, 2009
Sat, December 05, 2009 11:12 AM
Reply posted for princessinpink.
I have been on FMLA for two years now. It saved my job. I have learned ALOT from our quality and disabilies department and the number one rule after you have been accepted for FMLA - you DO NOT have to tell ANYONE where you work why you were off. Nor are you to be harrassed. If you are, filed a complaint, if you can, or seek legal advice.
I cannot state enough that once you are protected, they cannot as much look at you with the evil eye, or you have grounds for a lawsuit. Keep in mind, when you are approved, that month is when your time starts, and usually we are allowed eight weeks per 12 month period. Keep track of your time (even though the FMLA ppl do it also), as if you end up using it all, thinking you still have more time, then you risk losing your job.
Good luck.
Joined Mar 3, 2009
Mon, November 30, 2009 8:50 PM
Reply posted for RonTitone.
Hey Ron,
Unfortunately, while my boss may suck, I actually don't mind my job. My co-workers have also become my friends and that makes having a not-so-understanding boss more bearable. At least they understand and are quick to help if I get ill while at work. If I leave this job I am worried I might end up with something worse. More stress or a meaner boss lol. Good luck with your FMLA request and take care!!! ;)
Erica
Joined Jan 7, 2009
Mon, November 30, 2009 8:31 PM
Reply posted for Jonsmom.
thank you for your response. i am eligible and will be inquiring about it this week. hopefully my boss won't make my life a living *** because of it. take care!!!
Joined Jan 7, 2009
Mon, November 30, 2009 6:21 PM
Reply posted for Jonsmom.
Yeah - FMLA is worth its weight in gold. This is a Federal program that prevents any action being taken against you for being sick and not being able to attend work. In fact, I will be applying for it myself this week.
Now, if you want my opinion about the job - find a different one. It sounds like your employer is not understanding AT ALL about illness in general and probably won't be any more understanding about your well being if and when you have to spend time in hospital due to a flare.
You have my sympathies, friend. Take care of yourself! ;)
Ron
Joined Sep 12, 2008
Mon, November 30, 2009 1:43 PM
Reply posted for princessinpink.
Are you eligible to apply for FMLA. That's what I did because I have a 15 y/o with Crohns disease. With FMLA you can take time off without having to worry about losing your job. Hope that helps!
Joined Oct 26, 2009
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