New update on cancer treatment-fired from work

[xmas74]

First, I want to thank everyone for the well wishes and donations. I'm still replying from the post linked below. It's been a rough week.
https://www.democraticunderground.com/100221229275

As of May 14 I was terminated from my employment. It was stated that I didn't get my FMLA in on time. They use a third party company called Reliance Matrix. Initially Reliance filled out my claim as intermittent but my doctor's forms call the treatment as continuous. I received an extension on May 7 for May 22 as a new deadline. My company stated I needed a Return to Work deadline-my dr stated she couldn't give one since they believe treatment will be extended. An email dated May 14 was sent out with my separation papers with the reason stated above.

I am mostly worried about paying full COBRA until I'm approved for Medicaid. It's extremely expensive and if i lose coverage during any of this they could delay my treatment until my new coverage starts. https://gofund.me/0e2c38dc5

I'm furious.

[Diamond_Dog]

1. I am so sorry!

American healthcare sucks big time! I hope your Medicaid comes through ASAP. Good luck with your treatments. I have been there.

[xmas74]

4. I work in Medicaid

I might check the ACA marketplace first.

[sheshe2]

2. I am so sorry.

This just isn't right.

[xmas74]

3. It's why insurance shouldn't be tied to employment nt

[WmChris]

5. Is this horrendous outfit susceptible to boycot?

If so who are they because I for one will choose not to use their services if I know who they are. Hope you find resolution to your health and insurance quagmire.

[angrychair]

6. You need to find a lawyer immediately

Last edited Sat May 16, 2026, 06:39 PM - Edit history (1)

You need an employment lawyer immediately. That is illegal. I'm not a lawyer but it sounds like you have a strong case but I would absolutely talk to a real lawyer. Typically they take your case on the contingency of payment for winning, much like an injury lawyer.

[dweller]

8. 👆🏼

Do this , and let them know you are looking for pro bono representation.
Most lawyers have to do some pro bono work at times


Good luck


✌🏻

[Marie Marie]

7. I am furious right there with you. This needs to change.

[brer cat]

9. How awful! We need insurance that is NOT tied to employment,

[Clouds Passing]

10. I am so sorry xmas74. Been there with no health insurance and very ill.

Hugs Tears Healing 💚

[LoisB]

11. This is very infuriating. I am sorry.

[GiqueCee]

12. This obscene level...

... of corruption is in the DNA of capitalism. Healthcare in rural Thailand is better than what we are subjected to.
Private Equity is a cancer that has infected healthcare on every level, and it should be wiped off the face of the Earth, but corporatism is the overarching cause of all our problems; it permeates and poisons every aspect of our lives.

[Joinfortmill]

13. I agree with everyone here, get an attorney. I prayed for you. Stay strong. You have a very good case.

[AverageOldGuy]

14. We really do . . .

. . . have the best health care system in the world!!

Right????

🤬🤬🤬🤬

[state of stupid]

15. Yep, the best healthcare money can buy!

[Figarosmom]

17. It is so sad that this is the way it is for most of the population.

It's really a crime that insurance is connected to employment. And most states are making Medicaid contingent to employment too. Yet once we get sick from a catastrophic illness you are fired.

Sending positive vibes and hopes for it all to work out. I'll do what I can to help.

[multigraincracker]

18. Interesting book on this, When McKinsey Comes to Town, The hidden influence of the World's Most Powerful...

Defend, Deny and Delay. It'll make your blood boil.
Try to apply for SS disability and find a lawyer that handles laws on disable workers.
Best of luck, my heart goes out to you.

[hurple]

19. I am a cancer patient myself.

2 years post-op and 1 year post chemo.

I work for the state of Illinois, in an agency directly under the governor's office. They bent over backwards to accomodate me throughout the process, including a year of full-time work from home during recovery and chemo.

I agree with several of the other posts, get an employment lawyer and sue their asses off!

[Omaha Steve]

20. Marta and I are in again

[Ms. Toad]

21. File a complaint with the EEOC for wrongful termination.

You don't have to have legal counsel, but having legal counsel (someone experienced in employment law) will increase your chances that all relevant information is presented to the EEOC in the best/most comprehensive light.