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thebirdcage posted 8/5/2013 12:01 PM

This is my second pregnancy. My first son was still born in March at 26 weeks. I am currently 15 weeks along. After our loss I was diagnosed with factor II blood clotting disorder and am currently on lovenox and baby aspirin in hopes that this pregnancy will conclude in the delivery of a safe and healthy baby. A month after our loss was Dday. And one month later our HB baby was conceived. We are both working hard at R and have had our good and bad days.

I worked as a field coordinator in a distribution warehouse up until 4 weeks ago. My pregnancy is considered high risk and because of this I have lifting restrictions on the weight I can lift. My job description states that I must be able to lift 35 pounds, my Doctor has stated I can not lift more than 20 due to my high risk pregnancy.

My employer has put me on unpaid leave until I am able to lift 35 pounds, which,God willing, will be after my delivery in January and maternity leave. They will not fire me so they don't have to pay unemployment or get sued for firing a pregnant woman. I am out of an income and am terrified. I have a wonderful support team built of my love and immediate family. Unfortunately, they are also all struggling working class people as well. The baby is due in January and right now it looks like our only option is moving in with my mother in a two bedroom apartment. Although I cannot begin to describe how grateful I am to have a place to go, I am sad that the house we were looking into buying (our dream home) is no longer an option for us due to me not having an income. I don't know how I am going to even make monthly bills.

I need help. I've worked hard since age 15 and have always been able to take care of myself. It's been a fight with pride to even accept help or ask for it. These past few months have been devastating and the loss of my son was by far the worst pain I will ever endure. Having experienced that I know I am stronger and will make it through all this. Having a dday after the loss was almost unbearable. But I've made it and am trying to keep my head high.

Does anyone know of any support? Anyone who is willing to help? Any organizations? Just a point in the right direction will be of most help. Praying constantly... Sometimes I feel so hopeless but the memory of my son and the hope for the healthy delivery of my growing baby keep me going!

KeepCalm_CarryOn posted 8/5/2013 12:12 PM

Talk to an attorney. Your doctor put you on restriction, not no work, I don't think your employer can put you on unpaid leave if you can still perform other functions. I was injured previously at a different job and they have to provide accommodations so I could still work. Check the laws in your area.

Blobette posted 8/5/2013 12:18 PM

I don't have any useful advice, but I do want to give you a virtual hug ((((((birdcage)))))

So sorry you're in such a tough spot.

Blobette posted 8/5/2013 12:18 PM

I don't have any useful advice, but I do want to give you a virtual hug ((((((birdcage)))))

So sorry you're in such a tough spot.

Tesa posted 8/5/2013 12:19 PM

There are several food banks and religious organizations that help financially needy people out when hit with these type of unexpected troubles. (SevenLoaves here in the dallas area, I know provides help with electric bills ect). .

Contact your creditors (mortgage, car, school loans) and tell them your medical status. You might be able to defer or skip a payment(s). Contact your states health and human services dept & find out if you qualify for state aid.

It’s a humbling experience to ask for help but it’s out there.

StillGoing posted 8/5/2013 14:08 PM

Look into WIC, it was a huge help for us.

thebirdcage posted 8/5/2013 16:58 PM

Thank you everyone for your sweet replies. Means the world. God bless.

decoyname posted 8/5/2013 21:42 PM

I have been a member for a long time and read here a lot but never post but I just couldn't pass up this post.

Thebirdcage you should really contact the EEOC and talk to them about your situation. Your employer may be violating all kinds of laws, including the Pregnancy Discrimination Act and ADA, depending on your specific situation (blood clotting disorder).

Good luck.

webmistress posted 8/5/2013 22:12 PM

Contact your local Department of Human Services, and apply for food stamps, cash assistance and Medicaid. They can sometimes help with your utility or medical bills if you're behind as well. Call your utility companies too, they will have a list of organizations that help pay water and electric bills for those in need.

musiclovingmom posted 8/5/2013 22:21 PM

Check with local churches. I live in a small town and attend a large church. We just purchased 2 small homes adjacent to church property that are being repaired and remodeled (they were all but condemned). Once construction is complete, they will be specifically to provide homes for people struggling due to circumstances. Maybe someone in your area has a similar program.

Hrtbrken1 posted 8/5/2013 22:31 PM

Oh Birdcage, I am so sorry! Another stress you don't need!

Have you been able to talk to HR? This sounds highly illegal. While they didn't fire you, they are also discriminating against you. Gah! I'm so po'd for you! I am glad to hear you're still pregnant, so at least that's a blessing.