UNEXPECTED Post-Op Option— Disability

I've learned some things.

I had been trying to set myself up to work remotely from home during the 12-week post op. It's how I assumed all along, for years, was the only way I could even consider this surgery. (I don't think it the best thing to work right after surgery, but if that's my only option, so be it.)

However, after speaking with my HR person I was informed of the following. I qualify to apply for short-term disability. Eight weeks of 100% salary coverage, and an additional four weeks at 60% salary coverage. THIS POSSIBILITY NEVER ENTERED MY MIND IN THE PAST 10 YEARS. What an amazing blessing!

Anyway, the main thing to consider is the 'applying'. It is not guaranteed.

This is what I've gathered so far:

• I have to apply for it, by phone, AFTER my surgery.

• The insurance carrier then calls Dr. West and then calls my employer. (The insurance claimant's job with this is to get me working as soon as possible) Based on information they gather, they decide to either accept or reject my claim— and for how long.

I emailed Dr. West letting him know that this was a blessing I never knew about and wanted to know his thoughts about the likelihood of it being approved for the 12-weeks. I let him know that I understood the discussion did not come from him but still wouldn't mind hearing his thoughts about it.

I shared with him my rigorous work commute into Manhattan. Somehow all the stairs and trains I take are not conducive to having one leg with non-bearing weight and crutches.

While Dr. West has responded to my emails in the past, he has not answered this email in particular.

So there you have it. If you're trying to figure out how you'll manage your post-op time, perhaps you may want to investigate this option for yourself.

I hope you are all well. I am great! I'm excited about my surgery and am looking forward to wearing flip flops this coming summer.

God bless!