So my physical therapy appointments are being paid for by a vocational rehab program. When I let my case manager (Mike) know I got fired, I was worried it would affect my case. Nope, I get to keep doing physical therapy! What a relief!

I inquired about the job placement assistance that I had heard mentioned in my initial meeting with Mike. I have an appointment on the 20th of August with my Mike and the job placement specialist. In that meeting, we will be discussing my availability (days and hours), any limitations (physical, mental, or otherwise), how much I need to be paid, and so on and so forth. The job placement specialist then finds a job that meets all the specifications we jointly set. All of them.

Mike said he wanted to use the specialist because he didn't want to place me in a crappy job that would re-injure my shoulder. He was actually relieved when I told him it was probably better to wait 6 to 8 weeks so I could get at least one of my health issues resolved. Resolving one issue and progressing in physical therapy means less appointments which means less restrictions on when I can work. The specialist can't actually start doing her headhunting for me until September, which gives me time to get some appointments off my plate.

I was stunned to hear that the placement specialist had to find a job that met all our agreed-upon specifications. I get to say what I would prefer to do, what I refuse to do, what days/times I can't work, I can probably even ask that I not be considered for anything that requires business formal dress code because that's the one kind of clothing I don't have and can't really afford right now. And the placement specialist has to find something that meets my needs.

I am overwhelmed with awe and gratitude at what kind of assistance is available to me. And I just wanted to share the news with you all, because you have been so supportive since I got fired.

Thank you all for being such beautiful, wonderful people! XOXOXOXOXO