posted
I was working 50 hours a week, at a very physical job. I worked there for about a month before I finally got diagnosed and started treatment.
I worked the whole time I was sick, though. At that place, I pretty much worked, ate, and slept. That was it. I took naps in my car during my lunch, and breaks. It was pretty sad.
It never occurred to me to apply for disability, I just never thought it was an option.
Posts: 306 | From Brownsville, PA | Registered: Jul 2007
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posted
I have been working for two years with this disease. I too just come home and bascially have lie down. It has been difficult as while I have lyme myself with many neurological symptoms, I have had to take care of my husband who has has late stage lyme and cannot drive due to his vision. I have to do most of the things that involve driving (groceries, medical appointments etc.) unless he can get a ride from a friend. I worry what will happen to him if something happens to me. It's tough.
Posts: 22 | From Massachusetts | Registered: Jul 2007
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Bartenderbonnie
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 49177
posted
So many questions for those who were able to return to work.
September will mark full 9 months of treating.
Have been unable to work for 15 months.
Have had Neuro Lyme for 4 years, 3 wasted years being undiagnosised or misdiagnosised. Lots of antibiotics and steroids for chronic infections before Lyme which severely damaged my immune system.
I want to return to work !
I have IC bladder. My treatments are now scheduled only during flair-ups.
I have IVIG treatments once a month. This causes me to be couch bound for 2 days after but then better.
I have divecuticulitis which causes spontaneous pain out of the blue. Comes and goes.
LLMD says maybe I could try 2 hours a week working. Realilistically, my shift would be 6 hours minimum.
My previous employer has been my biggest supporter. My old job awaits me. They have patiently stood by me for my return after a 15 month absence. Incredible !
I m believe I m at 75% most days.
Many disabiling symptoms remain but energy is NOT one of them,
I m so scared of a relapse because of the many responsibilities my job entails. Dealing with the serving and consumption of alcohol by guests, light and sound stimuli, cash and credit card transactions, late hours, fast paced stressful situations, and the dreadful last minute calloff of my shift because of some unforeseen Lyme Neuro flair-up.
The uncertainty of one s fragile health remains a constant variable.
In a nutshell, I m scared.
But if I don't try, how will I know. Am I rushing it ? I don't want you to tell me what to do. I want you to tell me what you would do. Thanks warriors. 💚
Posts: 3217 | From Florida | Registered: Nov 2016
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