Hi, my name is Rhonda Gillenwater and I am in need of some help and have no where else to turn. This is hard for me because I have always had options and able to support myself. I find myself now in a situation where I feel helpless. I was diagnosed with what is called Charcot Foot. It’s where your bones deteriorate and is extremely painful. My orthopedic doctor wanted to do surgery in January. When I talked to my HR department they told me that because I hadn’t been there long enough for my FMLA benefits to be in effect, that I would ultimately have to be let go from my position. Which would also mean that I would have no medical insurance anymore. I chose to postpone the surgery in hopes that I could make it until my one year of service and then I would have met the requirements to have FMLA protection.

Well my condition has progressed drastically and surgery is necessary now. Again I approached my manager and HR department with this information. Again I was told the same information about not being eligible for FMLA benefits and that they really have no other options but to be let go.

I am also the only caregiver for my disabled father who is limited to his abilities due to a brain injury and a stroke. So this surgery will be a big obstacle to get through.

Since I have no where else to turn, I am humbly reaching out. I need help until I can get through this temporary obstacle and back on my feet. I am not eligible for unemployment benefits because I would have to do job searches and be physically able to work, which I am not able to work right now. I think I can file for disability but from others experiences, this is a long process. This will be my priority during this process but need help in the meantime.

I will also be facing loosing my car because I have no income which will in the end will hender me because I will have no transportation to work when I am able to go back to work.

So with all of this said, I come to you humbly and asking for your generosity and support.