Determined

Friday October 27, 2023 my employment was terminated...

Dear Kelly Ann,

Please allow this email to summarize your ADA accommodation and employment status as we discussed today.  As you know, your manager had approved the extension of your leave of absence as an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) since your Massachusetts state paid medical leave (PML) entitlement exhausted on 10/14/2023.  As we first discussed on 10/18/2023, you and your provider have determined that you remain indefinitely unable to return to work, with or without reasonable accommodation, to perform the essential functions of your position.   I did review your indefinite return to work status with your manager as we discussed. Given the essential need for your department to staff your position fully, it is not reasonable for Baystate Health to continue to accommodate a leave of indefinite duration.  Consequently, as we discussed, your employment will end in good standing, effective 11/02/2023.  This date will coincide with your receipt of any PTO time you have accrued.

I'm trying not to feel too pissed off about losing my employment at Baystate but honestly it's tough. I attended Baystate Nursing School. I worked there through school and was hired as an RN in 1993. I have been a loyal Nurse for 30 years. It's a hard pill to swallow even though I know it's just business not personal. This weekend has been a rollercoaster of emotional and physical instability. Sometimes I'm feeling alright and then I just crash.

 I tried to keep my mind on other things by getting out this weekend. Friday night we went to a costume Jill n Jill. It was a fun time but I decided to bring my 9pm medications and I took them while we were there. The side effects kicked in and I was done for... David had to essentially hold me up to get me into the house and he had to help me change into my pajamas and put me to bed. Lesson learned I need to be home by 9pm or I turn into a withering witch.

Saturday I felt a little better and I was able to attend Elliana's horse show with Molly. It's the first time since last year. It was a delight to see her ride. I was drained afterwards and my symptoms were exacerbated. I stayed home the rest of the day and evening recuperating.

Sunday I was actually feeling good. David and I went to Elliana's show for a bit and then we went to The Son's of Erin tailgate party. It's a fundraiser for the Colleen Committee. It's fantastic to see friends and family. I made it to half time and then we came home. I made the most of the times that I felt well this weekend and I recuperated when I needed. I struggled with the idea that I no longer have a job in my chosen profession and may possibly not be able to return. I know that I'm progressing so I will continue to focus on my recovery. It is what it is and it will be what it will be... I'm alive and that is most important!

Each 💔 beat matters,

KellyAnn