UPUS AWARENESS MONTH: Hello.For those of you who do not know I have Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) I am still working as a nurse. Everyday is a struggle with pain along with many other symptoms. Ambulating can be a struggle, problems with balance during flares has increased over last few months. My employer declined to allow me the usage of a cane at work. I spoke with my primary care provider and orthopedics doctor and they both agreed on a forearm crutch which would help with balance. I then requested a reasonable accommodation at work. It was finally approved Thursday! They are not happy to have to process and approve the request. While signing the approval papers I was approached on looking for another position that is less strenuous because they do not know how long I can continue doing my job. The medical field is not supportive of employing nurses with disabilities. I plan on changing that and I do believe this is a start. There is not a part of my job I can not do proficiently with the use of a forearm crutch. The ADA does not specifically cover SLE it does however cover a list of symptoms caused by SLE one of which is assistive devices for mobility and I was very verbal about researching the ADA and the possibility of filed charges for non-compliance of the federal law especially since I work for the government. Just thought I should definitely share this one....
Featured Replies
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later.
If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
UPUS AWARENESS MONTH: Hello.For those of you who do not know I have Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) I am still working as a nurse. Everyday is a struggle with pain along with many other symptoms. Ambulating can be a struggle, problems with balance during flares has increased over last few months. My employer declined to allow me the usage of a cane at work. I spoke with my primary care provider and orthopedics doctor and they both agreed on a forearm crutch which would help with balance. I then requested a reasonable accommodation at work. It was finally approved Thursday! They are not happy to have to process and approve the request. While signing the approval papers I was approached on looking for another position that is less strenuous because they do not know how long I can continue doing my job. The medical field is not supportive of employing nurses with disabilities. I plan on changing that and I do believe this is a start. There is not a part of my job I can not do proficiently with the use of a forearm crutch. The ADA does not specifically cover SLE it does however cover a list of symptoms caused by SLE one of which is assistive devices for mobility and I was very verbal about researching the ADA and the possibility of filed charges for non-compliance of the federal law especially since I work for the government. Just thought I should definitely share this one....