CHAT I think I'm about to enter Short Term Disability at my job...

moldy

Veteran Member
It is my understanding, from a cancer survivor I know, that lymph glands can be surgically removed and another one from elsewhere in your body can be inserted to replace it......

Prayers up for you and your situation, however you pursue it.

They can for sure be removed. In the last year, I've had 94 surgically removed from my neck. I don't think they can be replaced. Lymphedema I caused by the lymph glands not draining correctly, either due to malfunction or removal.
 

WildernessGirl

Contributing Member
Prayers going up...

Youtube is your friend... search “short term disability” and start watching... I took a quick look just now and looks like they have lots of informative vids on STD, LTD, FMLA (and it does not appear to be an easy process)... and also seek guidance of lawyer... you have kids at home that I know you want to provide for... you don’t want them to deny you on a technicality that you missed or didn’t know about. The point about keeping copies of everything, all drs reports etc, is excellent!!!

(Related note: When I applied for SSDI for myself... I found a disability law firm on youtube that explained HOW to fill out the forms, why denials happened, etc. I got SSDI first time. Point is there is a way to fill out the forms.)

You need to become your own best advocate here and that comes with educating yourself....

View: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=wisMyUTWbms
 
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ioujc

MARANTHA!! Even so, come LORD JESUS!!!
They can for sure be removed. In the last year, I've had 94 surgically removed from my neck. I don't think they can be replaced. Lymphedema I caused by the lymph glands not draining correctly, either due to malfunction or removal.
I am not certain, however a woman I used to have as a client, had several lymph nodes removed .....well, look here:


According to her, it is a fairly routine procedure at the larger cancer centers.....
 

Luddite

Veteran Member
Very sorry.

If you think your condition isn't going to improve, I would see an attorney that specializes in disability. (The age of your children makes me suggest that)

I have a friend that has been fighting for disability for several years now. They truly attempt to "starve you out". Jmo

Is there a chance your company would offer an early retirement incentive?

Plan as best you can...
 

NHGUNNER

Senior Member
… While you are under STD/LTD coverage, yes - your job is "protected" - or should I say your employment. Your employer will need to take you back, although your position may change.

Are you sure about that? I thought it was only FMLA that protected the job? Recently I had an employee go out on STD and the benefits manager called me to see if I wanted to get rid of her. I mentioned that I didn’t think we could do that and she said the employee had run out of FMLA time so we could. I’m sure there are different rules for every company and State.
 

Pebbles

Veteran Member
My understanding also, FMLA protects your employment and the benefits associated with your employment. Once FMLA runs out your benefit coverages may end also, depending on your state. If your medical issue was caused by your job and you are covered by workers comp there might be some protection also.
 

Southside

Has No Life - Lives on TB
Prayers, Auxman.

My mom used "pump pants" for the edema in her legs from Diabetes and a skin disorder. SHe wore them an hour a day for 20 years. Controlled her swelling and water retention, until she was able to lose weight and rid herself of the edema.
She only uses the pump pants occasionally now.
 

Griz3752

Retired, practising Curmudgeon
Short term 6 months at 100%.

Long term at 24 months (I think) at 60%.
You can't afford to "think" - you need to get w/ HR for a full understanding of what your employer offers and how that meshs w/ SSD/SSA etc.

You may also want to consult a Lawyer, sooner rather than later. We went through that SDT/LTD transition a few years ago and it was fairly easy and had only minor bumps but, its hard to get the complete picture from any of the players: they're each only really concerned w/ their area of responsibility. We had a family resource who pointed out what to watch for so, we were fortunate..

There might be good info on the Insurance carrier web sites; check those and if not clear, ask questions. You and your family can't afford grey areas or surprises.
 

Granny Franny

Senior Member
Just one more thought - when you go on short or long term disability or leave, most employers will discontinue your health insurance and any other benefits you have. You can usually pay to keep the health insurance coverage while out, so make sure you understand the ramifications of that as well.
 

h_oder

Veteran Member
Are you sure about that? I thought it was only FMLA that protected the job? Recently I had an employee go out on STD and the benefits manager called me to see if I wanted to get rid of her. I mentioned that I didn’t think we could do that and she said the employee had run out of FMLA time so we could. I’m sure there are different rules for every company and State.
You may be right there. I may have been lumping the FMLA in there automatically, without stating it separately. And, yes, there are so many variations in the laws and regulations...that's why it is important for Auxman to speak with HR, document conversations, and then speak with an attorney if needed.
 

ainitfunny

Saved, to glorify God.

Lymphadenopathy Following COVID-19 Vaccination: Imaging Findings Review​


What is WORSE IS THAT DR.'s are misdiagnosing aa "cancer metasticized" when they see the swollen lymph nodes on imaging! particularly in ex, or current cancer patients!!
 
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ainitfunny

Saved, to glorify God.

Frequent Onsets of Cellulitis in Lower Limbs with Lymphedema Following COVID-19 mRNA Vaccination​

 

bcingu

Senior Member
As Moldy stated keep copies of everything sent to you as well as what you send them including the envelopes. Further, get an accordian folder just for this. Start a log, in it record date, time, activity ( phone call, Dr. appt, medical procedure ect...) who you talked to & what was said. If traveling to appiontment mileage & time & who made or requested the appiontment. Prescriptions by name, dose, Dr who prescribed date prescribed & why.

Keep notes of every discussion related to this from your employer, Dr., insurance, ect...
Write down what you tell anyone involved & do not change what you say or assume everyone involved knows your story. Do not paraphrase or use different words in your descriptions.

I know this sounds unnecessary & overkill. However, I speak from experience & just changing how you describe what happened, how you feel, ect....by one word can costs you everything.

Remember, insurance companies do not like to spend money. They will check every report from every source to find any descrepencies so they don't have to pay. Although this maybe short term your memory will not be completely accurate in 6 months. Stay on top of this & you'll be fine.

Oh yeah make sure anyone in your family or friends knows your narrative. What they say in passing to your employer, Dr., ect... can be used against you as well.

Good luck.
 
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