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I need some advice regarding my situation. I waited 12 months for the right travel opportunity to come along. I scoured this blog, read 'Highway Hypodermics' and 'Hitting the Road.' Read every travel nurse article regarding dos and dont's of travel nursing. I'm a hospice nurse so I looked for recruiters that would work with me and find opportunities.
Just when I was going to give it up and just work for my company locally in Virginia. I received a call back from Nova Pro regarding a Hospice position in Auburn. I did a phone interview with this nursing manager on a Friday asked her all the appropriate questions including her census which she said was at 50 but they desperately needed someone to start as quickly as possible. She even asked me personal questions so she knew I was single and headed very far away from home.
Spoke with my recruiter who stated they were really impressed and wanted me but were concerned b/c I didn't have a license. I told my recruiter that if the hiring manager really wanted me I would fly out there and apply for the license in person. If it would get me the position I would be willing to fly out there.(I'd been on Short term disability due to a broken wrist so I had a lot of time)
My recruiter called me back and said she really wants to hire you so I bought a plane ticket to Sacremento for $500. Rental car $200. I flew out there to get license. Was told by agency we will pay for part of expense but that didn't happen. Received call from my recruiter they were really impressed and hired me to start this upcoming Monday 2/13/12 . I had a month out till I could began position plus was awaiting license.
Placed my two week notice with my company in Va. My coworkers were very supportive. Both my recruiter and this manager knew I was driving ACROSS COUNTRY for this position. I received a call on Monday 2/13/12 from my recruiter confirming I was on my way and making good time. Finally, received a decent housing apt that they found also Tuesday 2/14/12 along with address.( Starting to feel real). Received another call on Tuesday 2/14/12 stating that they were going to have me start on Tuesday 2/21/12 b/c Monday was a holiday....
On Wednesday, 2/15/12 morning I received a call from my recruiter that the nursing manager stated census had dropped and they were cancelling my contract. I was in Arkansas at the time. I continued on b/c I think I thought maybe it was an error or she would have a change of heart when she realized the plight she put me through. Plus, my recruiter stated they had other opportunities in Ca and having covered that distance I was really not in a position to turn around.
Originally they said they would try to get ne at least 2-4 weeks but they couldn't get her to budge on just cancelling the contract. I spoke with the nursing manager myself and didn't receive an apology until I stated thats what I was looking for. She just reiterated she debated the decision but can't justify having a travel nurse!
I'm angry because I spoke her three times since I interviewed was assured they desperately needed me. How can they just break a contract like this?! My recruiter states there is no recourse apologizes but I'M out of at least $1,500 and Nova Pro hasn't offered to cover me for anything but the standard $600 relocation fee which she was supposed to be getting back to me about wiring but she's left for the day before that was done. The furnished apt is no longer available I was supposed to be resting my head for free but now I'm shelling out another $100 for a hotel room! They didn't even offer to cover my expenses till I brought it up!
I'm not sure what to do. I'm not in a position to pay the $600 plus in gas and lodging to head back to Va. I called my other recruiters but they have to submit me and wait to hear back. Already was passed on by two positions since yesterday. I'm so disheartened and sick to my stomach. This was my very FIRST travel assignment! I cannot believe this has happened.
Has anyone ever had this occur? Anyone been in this predicament? Any advice you could offer would be greatly appreciated.Thank you