Sunday, July 19, 2015

Life On Disability

Those of you that have been with me for awhile know that I had to go on disability leave from my teaching job. I had no choice. My employer gave me the choice between no job or disability. I chose to go through the disability nightmare.

I refer to going on disability leave as a nightmare because in my opinion it is one. A big scary one. Here is my story.

I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis by my primary care doctor and my Rheumatologist. I was put on Plaquenil for 2 months. It didn't help and made my hair turn brittle and fall out by the handful. Dr. Z then suggested I take Methotrexate. He would start me out slowly and gradually increase the dosage depending on my progress.

I ended up on the maximum dosage of Methotrexate. My body couldn't handle it and I kept getting sick to my stomach, passing out, and unable to keep down what little food I ate. I missed a lot of work and had no more sick days. That's when I got the notice about losing my position.

I went through all the medical exams, meetings, and tons of paperwork. Three months later my disability leave was approved. Everything changed at that moment.

When you are on disability you will be broke. The medical bills will pile up and the insurance plan offered may cover 15-20% of the cost. The reason you are on disability is because you're ill, the financial stress you will be under will make you feel worse.

It's tough to pay bills when you have a job, even more difficult when you don't. House payment, utilities, food, medications, doctor/hospital co-pays, student loan debt, and so much more loom over your head every month.

The disability payment you will receive will not even come close to paying all the bills. Depending on the terms of your leave you may be allowed to work. If you do find a job this will trigger a re-evaluation. Catch-22 situation.

You will be monitored and followed to make sure you are ill. I'm sure it's because people lie and fake it to get out of work. I have no idea why someone would do this because being on disability leave is not fun. It's stressful and should only be taken if you have no other option.

This has been the saddest I have ever been. It's lonely and frustrating. Little to no human contact other than doctor appointments.

If you know someone that is disabled and unable to work please pray for them. Ask them if they would like a card, a
visit, or a phone call. Isolation is not healthy.

I wanted to share with you the reality of life on disability. The cold, hard truth. If you ever find yourself in this situation it will be rough, but you can survive. I'm proof of it.

Take care,
Monica

2 comments:

  1. I keep you in my prayers and always have good thoughts of and for you Monica. I hope things take a good turn and your body, mind and spirit find good health and peace <3

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    1. Thank you Mary Anne. I appreciate your prayers and good thoughts :). I have faith that everything will be okay one day <3.

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