I started at Big Evil Corp in January. I've taken a lot of VTO since I started, because I was in a car accident last April that left me with multiple spinal injuries which had not healed, and this job exacerbated them. In February I had an appointment with my spine doctor and was informed that due to the length of time since the accident and the multiple therapy regimens that had thus far proven unsuccessful, I was eligible for surgery. I would be out for three months to heal. I am receiving short-term disability benefits during my absence, which is allowing my lower back the opportunity to heal as well. I worked there less than 4 months at this point, so not eligible for FMLA, but they approved of my leave and STD benefits. Somehow the system worked for me. I'm also in the process of being hired for a much better job, in my degree field, so I will be returning not to Big Evil Corp, but Big Evil Government. Do I feel like a piece of crap? Yes, because it is ingrained in my brain to feel that way. Am I a piece of crap? Possibly. Either way, I'm getting the rest and recuperation I need and don't have to worry about losing my home for now. Cheers.