Unemployed Due To Illness, Glad To Be Alive

Faye Harris, 52, recently emailed the Huffington Post about losing her job as an accountant at Emory University Hospital in April. Reached by phone, Harris explained what happened:

I got cancer. I started getting sick in January or February of last year. I was in so much pain and I had a heating blanket and heating pad and all kinds of medication just trying to be at work. I got so sick that I was laying on the floor of the bathroom. I went to the bathroom to try to make myself throw up. Went to lay on the floor, felt good, then couldn't stand up. My supervisor checked me into the hospital.

What kind of cancer?

Rectal cancer. What happened was, I didn't know I had it. They said I had diverticulitis. I went in for a colonoscopy and that's when they found it. I went through radiation and chemotherapy and then the surgery. I had the surgery in August of last year. I finally healed up. I was getting through and all of the sudden my blood sugar started going up.

I lost my eyesight for two months. It was blurry. I couldn't drive. I couldn't read. I had to have help. But I got my blood sugar under control, my eyesight came back a month ago.

The people that I worked with really helped me out. There are some good people. People were saying, "We'll drive you to help you get your radiation." They helped me with my daughter. They joined hands, they helped me out so much. They took up collections. I even got a call the other day, "We're thinking of you." That brings tears to my eyes when I even think of it. My family and my friends here and out of state -- somebody's always calling me. That makes me happy.

How'd you lose your job?

That was the bureaucracy. I went on leave after I was diagnosed, tried to stay in touch at my job, tried to work from home, but soon as a year of Family and Medical Leave Act time went out I got a letter of termination, and that just hurt. "You've been terminated. Take this to the unemployment office." My health insurance was canceled.

Story continues below

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That's what had me scared. Do I just lay down and die? Am I not worthy anymore? I've worked all my life. Put myself through school, raised four children, played by the rules, saved money, and this one illness has just wiped me out. Talk about being suicidal.

I had to use up all my sick leave, all my annual leave. I had hundreds of hours, and then my short-term disability kicked in. And then in December my long-term disability kicked in. It pays me about $2,800. Continuing my benefits through COBRA is $900 a month, but due to Obama signing that Recovery Act it reduced my payment to $300. I live in a trailer that's owned by my son. At the end of the month I'm watching pennies.

In your email you wrote that you're happier now than before.

I really am. I have to get up and say every morning I'm alive. Being above ground is a good thing. That girl Neda in Iran really moved me. She got killed for something really noble. Even though I'm suffering, people in some places have it a little worse, so get up off your butt and start your day.

HuffPost readers: Got a health insurance horror story? Tell us about it. Why not? Email [e-mail].

Click here for more stories about regular folks pluggin' along.

Comments

[amfilmlvr]

There are many "blue dog" democrats in Faye's area. If you live in GA please contact representatives John Barrow, Sanford Bishop, Jim Marshall, and David Scott. Tell them about Faye and about our need for a public option in health care!

[Fabian180]

FAYE PART 2
Many talk about socialism, but it was the investment in me by the American taxpayers that allowed me to obtain a bachelor of accountancy and an MBA. That investment paid off, because in the end I paid higher taxes which I never begrudge. It is the same with healthcare. An investment. As a republican, I voted for President Clinton for his stance on healthcare. To all those who have health insurance and are happy with it, I was happy with mine also. It only takes one catastrophic illness and you won’t have it or be able to afford it. And, everything you worked for could be eaten up by medical bills.

I am spiritual but no longer religious. Those who shout the loudest against universal health care are those who wear their religion in the open. There is evil in houses of worship. They would be shouting the loudest for universal healthcare—if they truly believed in Jesus. As soon as communism/bogeyman was put to rest, workers lost everything, pensions, healthcare, and jobs. The bogeyman is now socialism. With 911 emergencies, they don’t say “will this be cash or credit”. Everything should not be for profit.

Thanks to my co-workers who financed a trip to Europe for my daughter. She is a better person for it. Thanks to friends in and out of state. And thanks to family who rallied around me. The investment of time in you guys paid off. Love you.

[Dale Larson]

Access to health care should never be tied to employment. It doesn't make sense as we see by your story.

Single Payer is the only approach that provides for all in an equal fashion.

[Fabian180]

FAYE PART 1
I am the Faye in the story above. After the d iagnosis, I had weeks of chemo and radiation. After surgery I was left with an ileostomy. Even with that, most times I was thankful. The second round of chemo lasted from November to February of this year. I developed diabetes from the treatment and lost my sight. I could not drive or take care of my medical needs. I broke down. But ten minutes later, I wiped the tears and reminded myself, others have it worse.

My FMLA expired in April. I lost my job and received notice that the cost to continue healthcare via Cobra was $900.00. For May I had no healthcare. I didn’t see any doctors. I rationed my insulin to 1/3 the dosage and on some days did not inject myself at all. Lost home health care due to blindness from the diabetes and could not attend to my ileostomy. My daughter improvised a headband with rubber bands and paint brushes to extend my glasses so I could see. Talk about suicidal/deep depression. Again, told myself things could be worse. I at least had family and disability insurance and should feel empathy for those who didn’t have my safety net. So quit feeling sorry for yourself. You are blessed.

See part 2

[pissedmichael]

The stories need to keep coming in. One of the biggest impediments to universal health care/single payer is people you already have health insurance--you know, the ones who say they are 'happy' with the coverage they have? We need them on board, they need to wake up and understand that circumstances such as these, not only could happen to them but, are likely to happen to them--given the poor general health of Americans today. They need to relate, to understand they are far from immune to the relevance of things like this affecting them directly, and painfully.

[Dale Larson]

"but, are likely to happen to them--given the poor general health of Americans today."

It's as simple as losing your job and you're screwed. COBRA is a joke. When I got laid off I would've had to pay nearly $800/month (8 years ago!). With an unemployment check of $313 (the max at the time) per week BEFORE TAXES you can guess what's the first expense to go. Even though I had savings the COBRA money was insanely high we picked up a "gotta die first to get anything" policy and crossed our fingers.

This country provides almost no safety net to bridge job loss. If you're seriously sick and lose your job the health care system, in short order, will first bleed any assets you've accrued. Bankruptcy and possible death may follow. If you're completely wiped out you can get on Medicaid (so I'm told).

Fortunately I found a job (I'm an engineer) in about 4 months. With the current employment situation that would not be possible. Thank Obama's stimulus for some help with COBRA but it will run out at some point and good luck getting a policy at any price with your illness.

It's an incredibly heartless "system".

Single Payer is the only approach that solves most of the issues with the current "system".

[Wallace70]

Your story was very empowering and I am so glad that you are doing well. Here is some information for the writer to pass on to you. I know this happened to you a while ago but...here in my state of MD (I don't know if you mentioned the state where you lived) you may have been protected under EEOC because of your condition. I just remembered EEOC is for everyone and should apply to all states regardless. The only thing is the time frame. I believe you missed the time frame but go ahead and call any way with your story. You were fired for having cancer. Did your cancer at any time go into remission? If so, that could make a difference if they decide to accept the "charge". If you can not file a "charge" with the EEOC have you thought about talking to an Employment Lawyer?

I know we live in a sue (litigation) happy society and that is not my goal. There are times when companies don't follow protocol or not do right(for lack of a better phrase). I just want to make sure that you are or were aware of all of the legal options available to you considering your condition. Also, I'm sure you are now receiving disability (I hope).

Family, co workers and a strong network of people that care about you can make any situation/condition almost bearable. I'm glad you have that in your life.

[amfilmlvr]

While I am glad that you shared this information about EEOC, I think that it just illustrates that even with some measure of protections in our society for the worker, the laws and procedures still benefit the employer.

Faye was in terrible, debilitating pain, in chemo, dealing with a new and permanent medical device, depressed and blind. Not to mention raising a daughter, filing for unemployment and trying to make sure her COBRA took affect while rationing her insulin. To say that she was in no shape to put up a legal fight is a gross understatement.

Perhaps time hasn't run out to file the EEOC claim and Faye feels ready for another fight, but we need public health care where there is no fighting to prove you were wronged (with EEOC) or truly sick (with SS Disability), just services.

[hobbesian]

This woman's situation is exactly why the majority of Canadians want nothing to do with a US-style sickness industry. Everyone gets ill at some point in their lives, some more than others, and some more intensely; death smiles on us all toward the end in any case. We may pay higher taxes here, but the benefit is good healthcare for all citizens especially when they are most vulnerable (isn't that a Christian concept). Rather than profitting from the sick and infirm, why not coerce the businessmen out of your health care system and into industries that actually produce things that you might buy (instead of outsourcing all your manufacturing jobs). Perhaps Pres. Obama can take a page from Reagan's playbook in this situation. Recall when Pres. Reagan needed to "reform" the Air Traffic Control system, he did so in dramatic fashion by invoking an act of law. Perhaps your Pres. Obama may be able to make a similar move when the time is right.

[n5ifi]

No doubt about it.
It's the Christian thing to do but it has to be done in a responsible manner.
The US Government can't do the job it's been given to do for centuries and we just want to throw the program we have away and let them run it?

We will have healthcare reform and we should have healthcare reform but it's got to be done in responsible and fair manner.

[washlib]

For all of those out there that decry the need for Universal Single Payer Health Care, take note. This can happen to ANYONE, and your employers insurance can get cancelled. We need health care regardless of occupation, WITHOUT the insurance companies taking a huge cut.

To all those naysayers, you are just an illness away from destitution, GET IT?

[CitizenIndie]

Powerful story.

There are still people that amaze me not realizing that one illness can erase years of hard work in less than a year. These same nutjobs say healthcare for all cost TOO much instead of realizing that 60% of home foreclosures are due to medical problems.

God forbid their selfishness backfires and they or someone in their family get ill. Then they'll blame Obama like an idiot even though they told their congressmen to vote down government healthcare for all citizens.

[miamivalleyjournal]

I am thankful to Ms. Harris for sharing her story. I wish every politician in our country would read this column and then create legislation that would provide Americans with the very best health care plan.

[RJPasadena]

The Rethugs LIE when they say Canada and Europeans want our healthcare system. They would riot in the streets it they went from the system they have to a FOR PROFIT healthcare system. Maybe the Doctors want it...that's why most of the DR's in the USA are from foreign countries.

[avchavis]

Ms. Harris - you are my inspiration! Keep on keeping on!

[hankytankyhanger]

The woman featured in this story is my Mom. I am her son. Most have never had to endure the struggles that my mother had to overcome even before her illness. Going through chemo and radiation was hard for her, but health insurance was my Mom’s prime worry. I hope with other stories like the one she shared, that Democrats and Republicans alike will listen and enact affordable and quality healthcare for all. We are a great nation. Healthcare should be a right for all and not just for the rich. Let us start looking after each other and not only how to make a quick buck.

I recognize satire like DrJimmy72296’s when I read it. But I know that the majority of Republicans in and out of Congress actually feel this way. That is a sick mentality.

My Mom gives business advice to my wife and me in running our start up business “ HankyTankyHanger”. She gives the same valuable business advice to my brother who owns a computer shop. So just in case, to all the bootstrappers, she is doing something.

I produce my product in the US because I want to support my and build up my village. I hope all elected officials in Congress support healthcare for people like my Mom and not just the well off. I love you Mom!!

[fabricnthreads]

Your mom, and you and your wife, inspire us all.

Thank you for sharing your personal stories.

Best of luck and success to you in your business endeavor.

And blessings to your wonderful mother and wishing her continued health.

[RJPasadena]

God Bless you, your family, and especially your MOM.

She is lucky to have her children at a time like this. Staying positive and the support of her family is healing medicine for her. My prayers and cyperhugs to you all.

[Chrissie Thompson]

The woman featured in this story is my Mom. I am her son. Most have never had to endure the struggles that my mother had to overcome even before her illness. Going through chemo and radiation was hard for her, but health insurance was my Mom’s prime worry. I hope with other stories like the one she shared, that Democrats and Republicans alike will listen and enact affordable and quality healthcare for all. We are a great nation. Healthcare should be a right for all and not just for the rich. Let us start looking after each other and not only how to make a quick buck.

I recognize satire like DrJimmy72296’s when I read it. But I know that the majority of Republicans in and out of Congress actually feel this way. That is a sick mentality.

My Mom gives business advice to my wife and me in running our start up business “ HankyTankyHanger”. She gives the same valuable business advice to my brother who owns a computer shop. So just in case, to all the bootstrappers, she is doing something.

I produce my product in the US because I want to support my and build up my village. I hope all elected officials in Congress support healthcare for people like my Mom and not just the well off. I love you Mom!! Thanks for making HankyTankyHanger to best hanger ever

[washlib]

thankyou for your input and your unceasing support of your mother.

Unlike reichwingers, we actually care about our families more than the perception of economic wealth. They'd rather send our $$ off to war$ to k1ll innocent foreigners than support the health of American Citizens. But then, thats the price of their imp4rialist heg4mony.

Your mom must be proud. Keep up the good work.

[debrief]

Go bless you.

[lynjs]

Keep your chin up. I know exactly where you're coming from. In 1993, I got my first job after graduating from college 3 years prior. I worked as a clerk/typist at a local newspaper part-time. I was also a feature writer also.

My main job, keying in the obituaries was time sensitive. Each morning from the time I arrived there at 8 a.m. or before I was on the go.

Overtime, I was doing my job and plus another because I had no help in keying in items from school news, calendar and the various columns. Because of that I damaged my hands. Three years later, while under a quack's...sorry a doctor's care, I was fired.

That was 13 years ago. I haven't worked since. I can't get a job because no one will touch me with my damaged hands. I can't get any assistance nor disability because according to them, I have a college degree. If it weren't for my mother and my brother, I'd be in the street. And no, I've not gotten my hands treated. Why? There isn't enough money to pay $300 a month for insurance.

That's why universal health care is a must. I, as well as Mrs. Harris, need it because if it isn't passed they'll be more of us out there with talent floundering but no where and no way to use it.