As many of you are aware, I am undergoing radiation treatments and hormone therapy to combat this cancer. These are two cancers....one left over from my prostatectomy and the other one being found in my 3rd rib bone.
I am on an 8-week unpaid medical leave. After 2 weeks of deciphering what was necessary to provide Met Life and Sedgwick, it was ascertained that I did (and do) not qualify for short-term disability.
This was a terrible blow to me as I was under the assumption (via MetLife) that I would be covered for the two months of treatment. After hours and DAYS of calling all parties involved, I found that my case manager (who wasn't at work this week) had closed my case because I did not qualify for Short Term Disability through my employer.
After speaking with the HR department, they confirmed that I was ineligible for Short Term Disability based on my hours of less than 35/wk and being considered part-time. HR also escalated the issue and was given the reply, "There's nothing we can do. He doesn't qualify."
This was something that I was unaware of and caught off guard, as all of the Met Life customer service representatives assured me that everything would be fine.
I have rent, utilities, insurance, and food to worry about. And, I have been on unpaid medical leave now for three weeks. I have no more income and am currently looking for 'work from home' employment opportunities to start a possible career, all the while trying to get back to Tennessee where the Urologist, Oncologist, Radiologist, and General Practitioner do not require 3-4 months before they see 'new' patients.
I thank everyone for the slightest consideration in this dire time of need.
This is not a 'pity party' at all!
Cancer is just that... a cancer.
I merely need assistance with my rent/utilities/groceries for the next two months while I look for a job where I may work from home.
I am staying positive and keeping a glass-half-full mentality.
At the end of the day, it's all about having perspective. I have the traits and the qualities to maintain the most positive perspective.
I thank everyone for their prayers and support in advance.
Kindness and Love,
AL
ps Should you wish to send helpful donations through Zelle instead of online, you can do so by my phone number....
(817) [phone redacted]
God bless you all.