after 35 years, I cannot believe it

[Carolyn1234]

After a 35 year career, today may end it. After 20 years of hospital work, I was recruited by a surgical practice to be their lead nurse. I have now worked with this group for 15 years. I became a grandma in November (an answer to prayer!) and have been looking forward to a little time with this baby. I had asked the group for a two month leave of absence in September. Without getting into specifics, this leave is VERY important to me. This morning, I was told that they were not granting this leave. One doctor actually said to me "I am sorry about this but I can't imagine running this practice without you for 9 weeks" I am crushed. I have worked like an ox for this group and have never asked for anything. I am 58 years old. I feel like they are taking a calculated risk but thinking that I am too old to quit. My husband says we don't need the money and I should give notice tomorrow. I wonder if I even want to give notice. I do not want to work here any longer.

Please, what would you do?

[Guttercat, ASN, RN]

What would I do?

Walk.

You are not getting any younger. If you retire when you are 70, will they miss you less?

[Dranger]

You can't do per diem or PRN? Realistically talking social security at 62 isn't smart and you don't want to burn bridges at an otherwise good job.

Ask for a couple weeks of them go PRN. There are millions of grandmas out there and their lives don't stop on a dime because a grandkid is born.

[caliotter3]

Those people who take social security at 62 because they saw their last paycheck long before do not appreciate being lumped in with "not smart". Many start their benefits at this age because they have no choice. They would rather be working. My original post qualified the action based on "need". I certainly would not suggest that course of action otherwise.

[Dranger]

Those people who take social security at 62 because they saw their last paycheck long before do not appreciate being lumped in with "not smart". Many start their benefits at this age because they have no choice. They would rather be working. My original post qualified the action based on "need". I certainly would not suggest that course of action otherwise.

I think you are taking my post way too personally. In the vast amount of circumstances, taking SS at 62 is not the best decision if it can be avoided.

[Carolyn1234]

I need to comment on the Social Security comments. More than one CPA has told me to take my Social Security at 62. The only reason to work after age 62 is health insurance. If you have health insurance covered elsewhere (like your spouse) most accountant-types tell you to take the Social Security. The break-even point is somewhere around 83-84 years old if you take it at 62 vs. 65. I doubt I will be traveling the world at 83.

I originally said I didn't want to explain much but I will say that per diem or prn is not possible for this practice. I will be traveling by plane for 16 hours to see this baby so a week or two seems silly. I have always said family before work. I meant that.

[caliotter3]

I think you are taking my post way too personally. In the vast amount of circumstances, taking SS at 62 is not the best decision if it can be avoided.

I am not taking your post personally. That is an assumption on your part. Best decision is not always the ONLY decision.

[meowmeowchirp, BSN]

I'd give notice so as to not burn bridges, but they are only babies once! You can't get that time back. If you, your husband, and your accountant feel comfortable with the finances, then go for it!