Just when I think that I will sit down with you and share good news or something funny I get punched in the stomach.
On Monday I worked my four hours of light duty and put up with the crap that a new female Officer dishes out dailey when my Sgt told me to report to the Captain on my way out. I said, "Sure!" and walked down the hall to his office. There he and my Lt. were waiting on me with my termination letter to sign.
It basically said, Following your on-the-job injury, you have been unable to return to your former position for over one year. Your twelve weeks of FMLA leave has long since expired. The doctors have determined that you have reached your maximum medical imporvement. The same doctors have placed physical restrictions on you, should you return to work. Those restrictions are such that, if followed, you would not be able to perform the required essential functions of your job as Correctional Officer for the Sheriff's Office......blah and more blah was added.
Funny that last Friday my Captain was talking about how excited he was that I would be going back on shift and then by Monday afternoon he is terminating me.
I was warned by several friends and family that once I returned to work they would fire me so I should of been prepared. Not sure if one can prepare themself for the insurity that is thrown at them.
My hope was to stay long enough to retire with a monthly income, insurance and no worries. Not meant to be. If anyone should be use to those words NOT Meant to Be would be me. Since my hubby ran off without any warning one day my world has never been the same. I managed to pull my self up get back into Law Enforcement and work on this ranch out here to make ends meet. Now I feel like the wind has been knocked out of me and I am lost.
I do know that God has always taken care of me and will do so now. It just scary being an old woman with no husband or job.
What I do have is wonderful children, a great place to live and work and YOU!
Now enough of my pity party! I need to get busy! Before this happened I was scheduled for a stupid endurance test tomorrow at College Station for workers comp. Since I am still on WC for 11 more weeks then I guess I have no choice but to go take this two hour test. It was to determine my work level but does it matter now. Who knows?
I also have been so sad this week too because my grandbabies dog passed away Friday. He has been with my son and DL for 14 years and I know their hearts are breaking. I too will miss you Reagan.
Love to all
Maggie
Posts
55 comments:
Maggie Maggie girl what to say to you now besides I am so sorry that these jerks did this to you. I have never been in your situation of being alone and no job so Lord knows I would be freaking out myself but your one of the strongest women I have met in a long while so you will do fine.
I am thinking of you and will send you a email soon
Love
Tam
so sorry Maggie....sending best wishes to you...you are a strong Texas gal so I know something wonderful will come along....
Oh no, Maggie! Let's hope it is a blessing in disguise. Make sure you apply for whatever benefits you are entitled to - Unemployment for starters. I'm so sorry you are having a crappy week.
I'm so sorry, Maggie. That just isn't right! I hope you will get your health back, and be able to find something soon.
I was fired from a job in '92. It took a long time to come to terms with it. My boss told me he had to fire me because I was rude. He also told me it was ironic, because my branch was the only one that made any money that quarter. I told him I was doing my job.
It still isn't fair. Can you collect unemployment? They've raised the number of weeks to 99, you know.
Oh my, this all sounds so unfair. I am so sorry. I will keep you in prayer. Hugs, Marty
Maggie Sweetie, I'm so sorry to hear this. Sometimes people can be so heartless and mean.
You know that old saying about one door closing and another one opening. I'm hoping this will happen for you.
hugs
Sissie
Oh Maggie, my heart is breaking for you right now. I'm so very sorry that this has happened to you.
Please do not forget how strong and amazing you are. You will rebound from this like all the other challenges you have conquered.
Love you honey, Kim
Dear Maggie, I'm so very sorry. Somehow, something much better will come along. You choose if I'm talking about a new man or a new job! :0)
Seriously, God will truly provide all you need. I'll be praying for you, dear friend.
big hugs,
Stephanie
Angelic Accents
Perhaps you should look into disability. You can still work part-time and collect it, I think.
i am so sorry I know you must be scared. you should think about something you have always wanted to try. Maybe this is the window that is open when they closed the prison door.
cathy
Maggie,Finish all that WC has you do..it may be the answer you need. I think your job was too much, but I think it was really rotten the way they handled everything. Hang in there and something will turn up that you may like even better. I'll keep you in my prayers and everyone here will be rooting for you! Don't stop investigating all the benefits you are entitled too..like unemployment. Keep us posted friend!
Okay Maggie I asked my husband about this. He said he didn't know about Texas laws but his advice is finish out the Workmans' Comp. Then to go for unemployment. When that runs out to sue them. But to be careful of statue of limitations. Do you have an attorney.....I think you do? There are basically saying that you can't do your job
because of the injury you received while doing your job.
ANd as you know they have covered their p's and q's and no just what they are allowed to do.
I am glad you aren't going to be working there. It isn't a good place for you. But, I am sorry about your situation. Sometime has to come up. (((((HUGS))))) and prayers
Maggie~
I am so sorry to hear this news. It really makes me sad that you are again having to go through such a trying time. All I can do is continue to pray for you and hope that you get stronger. I know that God will not forget you and he is in control of your life. I know at times it may not seem like this is the case, but it is important to try and have faith. Just know that you touch countless people's lives with your kindness and interest. You are not alone!
Love Ya,
~Dan~
I have one word, bastages.
One door closes, another one will open.
Sending you lots of love, smiles and big hugs!
LuLu~*xoxo
p.s. I would make sure to finish out the WC and then file for unemployment. It would probably be a good idea to talk with an attorney also (coming from someone that used to be a paralegal before she became an artist) :)
Love you Maggie!
LuLu~*xoxo
This is such a dirty trick, but I can't help hoping and believing that something good will come out of it. Because something good is what you deserve!
Sorry about Reagan, too. When it rains it pours, eh?
I will be praying for you, and I know I will not be alone!
=)
Hi Maggie,
I am so sorry to read your post, and it sounds so totally unfair what they have done. As Lulu said might be a good idea to speak to an attorney, they must surely have to pay out a big redundancy, at the least, for terminating your employment. Also with your disability you must be entitled to some sort of benefit.
Sad to hear about Reagan, so sad when we have to say goodbye to a beloved pet.
I am sending my best wishes and prayers your way and know there is something better and brighter waiting for you.
Love & hugs
Carolyn
Oh Maggie, My heart and prayers go out to you. I am like everyone else finish the wc and do talk to an attorney about your legal rights. Draw your unemployment, They always want you to sign things when you have just been blind sided without really giving you a chance to read things. They do sneaky things to try to keep you from being able to draw your unemployment. Did they give you a copy of your termination letter?
Go through what you have to do and something will show up. Maybe a good time to do more writing. Take care. Your Missouri Friend.
Oh my gosh. Maggie, I am so sorry! I don't have words that will help, but know I love you and you're in my prayers.
It is so disappointing to give so much of yourself to a job and have that be the thanks for literally giving all. You won't be the same because of the job and it isn't fair that this is what you get in return.
I love ya and am thinking of you.
Oh, Maggie, you've had so much pain in your life! I'm so sorry that, at this point, you have had another punch in the stomach. I know you'll carry on but I'm so sorry you have to deal with this kind of thing. In my early days as a therapist, I used to work in a psychiatric clinic for people on Workers' Comp (who needed therapy mostly because of the crap they got from the WC system or from employers) and it's not uncommon for an injured worker to get terminated once they return to work. The advice other readers have been giving -- stay on WC, then file for unemployment and consult an attorney -- are are sound recommendations. Also, give yourself time to grieve for all that has happened -- including the loss of Reagan -- and know that we all care very much about you. You're not alone, Maggie!
What rotten folks you were working for. I would definitely get all the WC you are entitled to and then unemployment too. I don't know how old you are, but if you are close to Medicare age, then take it early before they hike the age requirement way up.
Now, just remember when a door hits you in the behind, God will open a window for you. Keeping you in my prayers.
You take care now.
Maggie, sorry to hear this, I did not think you could be fired for being ill, that doesn't seem fair...the laws are so different in each country...sure does not seem right. I hope that you can work things out and continue to do something you love to do......hang in there Gal!
Hugs,
Mags
xxx
Well, Girl, one thing I do know is that what goes around comes back around, so you can do what ya gotta do, take care of yourself, and sit back and wait for the show. I truly believe when folks do mean and underhanded things, it comes back to them.
By then, you'll be enjoying yourself in a new job -- or in a bikini at the beach, drinking a big ole' Texas margarita!
I was wondering if you are perhaps in a union at the sheriff's dept. Maybe you could file a grievance with them. This all seems so unfair. With Drs. notes and all I don't understand how they can do this. My heart felt good wishes that things might brighten up for you. Take care and try to remain you usual positive self.
I didn't think they could terminate you if you have an ongoing WC case, but then again I don't know the Texas laws either re WC. I fought my injury and WC case for 4 1/2 yrs before it was finally granted. So, yes, do everything that WC is asking of you, see all the drs necessary, and hopefully you'll be able to get a disability retirement out of this. And most of all, do exactly as your atty says for obvious reasons.
Aw Maggie, I am so darn sorry. What a lovely bunch of creeps they are. I too believe this will eventually be the best for you.
I hope you see a lawyer about applying for SS disability. Certainly you qualify but rarely do people get it on the first time when they apply themselves.
Debbie seems to have a good ccurse of action also. Explore all your options, trust me they are out there.
You are still in my prayers.
I just wanted to say how sorry I am to hear what they did to you. I'm sending you a BIG hug!
Linda
Geez Maggie I hated hearing this news. My only thought right now is that God has bigger plans for you than you had for yourself and this is the first step toward that new future. I will keep you close in my prayers and know that you are not alone, I have no husband or job and life has still been full and rich and the future is filled with possibilities.
I am so sorry to hear about the beloved Reagan and will pray for your family at this sad time in their lives.
Love you bunches!
Tina xo
Oh, Maggie! I'm so sorry about that gut kick! Things like that always take our breath away and leave us wondering where we go from here.
Something good will happen. With your determination, strength, family and faith, you'll make it. Wish I was closer, I'd take you to lunch.
Bless your heart.. I am not shocked that they acted this way but I am so very sorry..
Please find a way to know your legal rights. As others have suggested do go on with the WC appointment and any others you have scheduled.. I know this is an overwhelming time for you..
we're right here to talk to if you need us..
(((Maggie))
Oh dear Magggie....I am at a loss for words here. You have had more than your share of bad luck.....Just hang
in there sweet lady. Things change all the time.
xo
Jo
Dear Maggie, so sorry to hear the news of your termination. I would definitely say to make sure that you get what you got coming to you. Don't just let them hand you notice and that be the end of it. Look into all options. Take time to heal! You are strong and I have no doubt you will be just fine. Good things are bound to come your way. Best wishes and blessings, Tammy
Prayers to you dear friend.
I hope that you will stay with WC and get all that you can, then talk to a good lawyer.
This is so sad, but it may get you something better.
Hugs
Well...my first thought was "Praise the Lord"..she doesn't have to work in that hell-hole any longer! Trust that there will be something better down the road...and just accept that this is a stepping stone to a better tomorrow.
Yes continue your appointments; yes to unemployment (can probably do that online); yes to a lawyer!!
Get a dang good week or two of sound sleep...even if you have to take a little over the counter help to do so. Life always seems better when you are rested!
Hugs! Dust yourself off...be glad those horrible days of dragging your tired and hurting body to that awful place are over! Tomorrow will take care of itself...trust my dear! Better times are a coming!!
Kathy
Oh sweetie, I just know in my heart that this is something that will turn out good for you in the long run.
I know it is scary as hell to be in this place right now, but I also know you are a talented, hard working woman and that this door had to close so another could open!
xxoo,
RMW
Dear Maggie. I am so sorry for your troubles. You sound like an amazing person with so much will and endurance. I am glad to be your Blog friend.
Oh, sweet Maggie I am hoping and praying this happened because there is something much better in store for you. I am just so sorry they sprung it on you so sudden like that. I am so sorry about the passing of the dog and my thoughts and prayers are with you all. What a sad time for you all right now. Hang in there dear Maggie and stay strong. Love and hugs!
Tried to call you sweetie. Know that I am praying for you to get thru this & that we are both sending you tons of love.
Big Maryland hugs,
All our love,
Marydon & Harold
Thanks to you all I am holding on and each comment I read gives me new hope!
I adore each and everyone of you and am looking forward to stopping by for a visit with you over the weekend.
Love to all
Maggie
perhaps it is a blessing in disguise...time to take care of yourself! I'm sorry it all came to this...love you friend, thinking of you as always..;j
How can this be? I'm so sorry to hear this latest turn of events. I sure hope there is something good that can come from all of this. Keep you eyes open, expecting a new direction that will launch you forward again.
Please keep us posted!
So sorry to hear about everything Maggie. I'm praying it will turn out to be a blessing in disguise for you, that better things are to come. I know it will be stressful and difficult but always know how much your blogging friends love you!
Kate
Oh Grandmayellowhair,,,you know how much I smile when I write that title..hope you smile too it seems so very sad after all you have gone through to be given such notice. Never mind my love you are stronger than any of them.. although you may not feel it at this moment..and once you have a week ot two to get used to the changes you will have to make, you will bounce back I am sure...you MUST..youv'e got to keep us laughing and smiling whatever would we do without you...
Much much Love Sybil xxx
Every time I read your blog, I keep hoping for good news....mostly that your back will get better and you will feel normal once again. This latest news is just the pits. The only good thing is that you won't have to go back there to work.
I feel certain that everything will work out for you, Maggie, and you can be sure that I will be praying for this very things. You have so many friends that will be praying for you too and that REALLY DOES HELP.
I am glad that you are such a strong person. Putting up with all the crap that you have had has made you stronger and things will get better for you, Maggie, I just know they will, so keep your chin up and work through this latest. I know you can do it!! Love you, Darlene
Oh Maggie! How can they do that? it is so mean and uncalled for. Sure makes you wonder what happened between Fri and Mon.
I'm so sorry you have to go thru this.
But, hey, we can be scared together.
I don't have either also. I keep waiting for this nasty divorce to be final so maybe I can find what normal is again. One thing for sure, I won't have physical or mental abuse anymore.
I was never allowed to work so I have no experience what so ever.
Just need to get up and brush off and keep on keeping on.
Wishing you only the best. Sending strength and love.
*hugs*deb
Maggie!!!! I can't believe this! Oh no! You are such a hard worker! (I just know that :) I really can't believe it!
If there is one thing I DO know is that you will triumph! You always do. I think you are one of the most amazing woman I have ever met..strong, funny, beautiful!!! I could go on & on! You are right too..you have a wonderful family & i know you will be okay. My heart does ache for you at this time because I know it has to be so hard & hurtful but just know that you are LOVED! By me & sooooo many others! Take Care Mags!!!
Love
Lib
What a shock and how horrible. I'm so sorry.
Dear Maggie
I am SOOO very sorry to hear of your news. I know that no matter how much you brace yourself for the possibility of the worst case scenario, you're still never quite prepared for it when it actually arrives. I DO hope that perhaps you can qualify for disability and I'm hoping you will consult with an attorney as well to discuss the legality of the termination. It would seem that if you went out on Worker's Comp, there should be something to protect you.
In any case, you are in my prayers and I do know from first hand experience that even in our darkest moments, God DOES provide, so be strong - have faith - and believe in miracles!
Hugs
Ramona
http://create-with-joy.com
P.S. Stop by my blog for a chance to win a pick-me-up...
I truly feel for you. When one door closes God opens another,but usually not in our judgement of time. I would continue to complete the WC so you will know what level of work to search for.
Did your former employer offer a good recommendation of your work, at least prior to your injury?
Also did you ever make progress on disability? Be sure it is Soc. Sec because you are awarded the same payment you would receive at age 65 based on what you have paid in to date.
Has your WC pay run out?
This is the time you have to lean on friends and family which you have plenty. Will be thinking and praying for you.
Schedule: get all you can out of WC and unemployment first and file for disability. You have to have been off work for a certain # of months to get SS disability so all the time off with WC and Unemployment will probably count toward those months. You cannot get Medicare for 2 years is the only downer. I know about SS disability as I got it on first try because I had kidney cancer age 59.. And here I am nearly 17 years later on reg. SS and Medicare. SS disability turns into regular SS at age 65.
What a total bummer! But I know this wasn't a dream job and I bet now something even better comes a long that you will enjoy doing.
I have no words. I am so sorry and feel the unfairness of this. I know God is in control and will pray for you.
~hippo hugs~
Grandma Yellow Hair!!! I think this is appalling ~ is it legal? It's definitely not fair!!! I'm so sorry for your situation ~ I'll send prayers up for you ~ and hopefully, the old addage "when one door closes, another opens" is true!!!
I know it has to be hard on you losing your job, and I hope that something will come your way.
I've been battling a knee problem for almost eight months now, I've had to resign from my position at the Veterinary Hospital, after thirty years in the field.
You deserve better than what you've been dealt, I hope you are blessed with an opportunity to show your talents and sweetness.
Higs,
~Jo
Maggie: I'm sure sorry to hear they did that to you. I hope another door opens for you soon! XXXX
Maggie...I am so sorry to hear this news. I WILL be praying for you and for your situation! I am thankful that you know HE IS FAITHFUL!!! ♥Cathy
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