Stand by Julie: Overcoming Injury and Hardship

My name is Julie Macik. In May 2024, I sustained an injury. I was going outside to enjoy some night air, and I blacked out and fell about 5 feet off my front porch. Where I fell was lava rock, and I fell face-first into it. I wasn’t breathing, and my husband had to do sternal rubs twice to bring me back to life. When I awoke, I was rushed to the ER and was diagnosed with severe head trauma, a skull fracture, a major concussion, and neurological issues. I was stuck in a neck brace for 24 hours a day for three months.

Prior to my injury, I was employed by the Postal Service and was working at the Caldwell Post Office. I filed for FMLA and was granted it, but I ended up being fired because I was not released to return to work in a timely manner, according to the Postal Service. I filed for unemployment, was approved, but then got rejected. I received two payments from unemployment, and now they are even asking for that money back.

I have not been released to return to work status, and I haven’t had a paycheck in almost a year. I am still suffering from my injuries and cannot pay for the medical services I need, such as an MRI and to see a neurosurgeon and possibly other specialists. Lately, I started having seizures and am extremely worried about my health. I can’t even pay for groceries, let alone any of my other bills. I don’t know what else to do. Any help and your prayers would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely, Julie Macik