Question:
I was sick with Bronchitis 2 weeks ago and was out of work for 3 days...

and I got a verbal warning. And was told to watch my sick time. If all goes well, I am hoping to have the surgery by the end of the summer. My goal is no later than Sept.1st. How would I work this with my job? Would a doctors note plenty of time in advance stating that I am going to be out for surgery shut them up? The can't really do anything right?? Any feed back will be greatly appreciated.    — Shavonne P. (posted on June 21, 2002)

June 21, 2002
Did you give them a doctor's excuse? If not, that may be why you got the warning. Otherwise, remember most of us are employees at will which means we can leave anytime and they can ask us to leave at anytime. If you got grief over that illness WITH a doctor's excuse, you may be working for a company that doesn't value its employees and you should probably look for a new job..........I know that doesn't help much but until you are in a job that you don't feel threatened at, it's best to keep moving on --- esp. when it's still an employee market which may be drying up soon.
   — Nell C.

June 21, 2002
Depending on how long you have been at your present job and the size of your employer you may be eligible for FMLA which will protect your job while you are off having surgery. My advice to you is to check into this...and GOOD LUCK!!
   — Lynda D.

June 21, 2002
Yes I had a doctors note @ previous poster.
   — Shavonne P.

June 21, 2002
Shevonne, make sure you give at least 30 day notice prior to your surgery and they can't really say anything. Check with your human resource dept re: your time off.
   — kitt

June 21, 2002
Lynda has a great idea. I forgot the exact number but if your employer has 45-50 workers then that company must accept a FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act) form from your doctor. And they are going against federal law if they try to fire you. For you to be eligible, you have to have worked 1250 hours on that job. Look up the exact details of FMLA on the net or ask your doctor's office. They may have some good information on it for you. Good Luck! :)
   — Carmen K.