Ive been fired from 6 jobs within the past year alone for "too many missed work days" due to seizures. Or my co-workers "being uncomfortable w my epilepsy and chance of seizures". I had a seizure at work at 2 of my jobs and was fired from both shortly after each. My question is, how do you handle others who don't understand epilepsy in the workplace? I'm currently applying for SSDI but it's taking FOREVER! Would you apply for disability or continue to work knowing it would be a less than 6… read more
I had a boss once who believed in me, I worked hard and went the extra mile. He did the effort to go and see the neurologist, psychiatrist and the psychologist and was happy afterwards when he consulted all 3 of them. I was and is still grateful to him. I learned a lot from him and about integrity. But the director still wanted to get rid of me because of the epilepsy. Some people just see/hear "epilepsy" and then you are without a job.
I was fired from my job they actually said they thought I was on drugs although the company did routine drug screens and I never failed on. I was falling asleep (so I thought) slurring speech this is prior to being diagnosed with Epilepsy. I had three minor auto accidents where I rear ended the other person. All these things were going on and I had no Idea what was happening as I had no memory of any of this. Diagnosed with epilepsy at 49 I have three different kinds of seizures all uncontrolled. Hospitalized several times in coma's and many other incidents. I applied for my disability and received it within 6 months. my doctor has no drive automobile for me. Actually it was my physician and the hospital that helped me with filing my disability. I was initially denied hired atty and it was awarded.
I'm in the UK and I got the Occupational Health team at my work to educate them about epilepsy and the differences. Some took it sensitively, others didn't seem to care. I left that job but at my next one I was effectively fired for absence - for health reasons and clinic appointments - although they don't actually put that in writing!
I have been through a similar situation and am now applying for disability. Single, alone and on unemployment waiting for disability approval.. It's extremely tough to survive. It all attributes to having more and more seizures..,
I applied for disability and had no problem getting it but my situation is a bit defferent because I became legally blind first. I can only see center vision on my left eye and on right lower vision and the blood clot that took my sight also started my seizures they think. I was very lucky because I was salaried manager so my benefits were I get paid until I am 65 along with my SS. I was very lucky I have a twin sister who is now going through disability SS and she is having a very hard time getting approved. I don't know why so many people who really deserve to have the benefits have a hard time getting them. My prayers are with you