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Problems at work


Sun, November 21, 2010 9:18 AM

I am having difficulties at work.  The job requires me to work at a computer all day.

I have been diagnosed with Crohns in 1996.  I have been diagnosed with follicular lymphoma in 1990.  Between 1990 and 2002, I have had chemotherapy twice.

Due to chemotherapy, I have a compromised immune system.

From my experience, three factors contribute to a flare up of Crohns: food, compromised immune system, and long hours.

First, has anyone claimed an American with Disabilities Act accommodation.  I am considering putting this in writing because all of the other verbal requests have been refused.  I can work from home lying down when I have a Crohns flare-up.

Second, has anyone been required by their employer to go through "stress" counseling.  I fear that they are using it in retaliation for using my FMLA when I have a Crohns flare-up.

FPO akahige
Joined Nov 21, 2010

Wed, November 24, 2010 4:56 PM

 Reply posted for akahige.

I work in a police dispatch center with 12 hour shifts.  In the last 2 years I have worked 6 months.  I just returned to work 1 month ago after exhausting my FMLA for the year and a leave of absence.  My 3rd week back I called out sick 3 days in a row.  I am not allowed any more sick days (leave without pay) again until I'm able to accumulate the time or I may be let go.  I'm having to medically retire and apply for disability. 

My workplace has been very supportive but my disease has pushed it a little too far for them.  I've been there 15 years but I can't afford to lose my job or my retirement so I don't know of any other option than disability.   

The nurse at my Dr.'s office told me today that she just filed for a patient with Crohn's and they approved on the first try.  I know it's not much info but I'll be going through it starting next week so I could keep you posted on the process.

FPO jenny594
Joined Nov 24, 2010

Wed, November 24, 2010 11:25 AM

 Reply posted for akahige.

I have had numerous problems with different jobs and experienced tons of discrimination.  It is a very frustrating situation.  FMLA is great but if your disease is really out of control it only helps so much.  Good luck, this is a hard situation that I've had to deal with many times before.

FPO vita200
Joined Nov 24, 2010

Mon, November 22, 2010 10:44 PM

 Reply posted for akahige.

I am a 27 year old female with Crohn's, who works in a retail store. About 2 years ago I started missing a lot of work because I was sick and I was having trouble because I had to stand for 8+ hours a day. I was finally encouraged by my manager and hr staff to look into FMLA and other work accommodations. So I did. I now have a chair I can use when ever I want so i am not standing all the time. I also have "extra" time off where it does not count against me if I can not go to work because I am sick. You need to work with your doctor to determine who much time you might need or what accommodations would help you. This has helped me and allowed me to keep my job. Just be aware that you don't get paid for the "extra days" you can take off unless you use vacation or personal time.  I have found that being open and using the disabilities and FMLA acts have helped me at work. I would say you should get things in writing just to cover yourself. 

FPO mwunrow
Joined Nov 22, 2010

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