my job that i just started in January is requiring us to come back to the office April 11th.
I (22 F) used to work full time as a patient care assistant for 5 years since I was in HS yet (essentially a caregiver) until I got covid December 2020. Shortly after that, I quit that job and got a part time office job as it was too much on me. It was 4 hours a day M-F in office. I’m glad I was even able to do that because my partner makes enough money. My manager there then eventually let me do 2 days at home but I’ll be honest it was still a lot sometimes to go in. I had brain fog while driving already where I had to pull over on the interstate and just cried. I don’t think I can do it.
I was so excited to get my current job as it is fully remote. I am actually loving it so far. I will admit, it’s even still a bit hard to be full time remotely, but I feel so much better and at ease everyday that I am able to work a full time job again. Which I will say here, I knew it was possible it could go back to office. During the interview, I was told it was 100% remote and it was “up in the air” about going back. That it could happen but maybe not. I just hoped that it wouldn’t and if it did it would be awhile yet and that maybe I would be better by then.
I voiced my concerns about my condition since getting the news on March 8th hoping to make an exception for me or if they would reconsider it all together because I really don’t think anyone should go back or course! but I haven’t heard anything back yet.. and my manager (who doesn’t want to go back either!) didn’t sound too hopeful in the meeting we just had about staying remote.
Basically, I just want to know if it’s possible if they have to make accommodations to work from home if long covid is considered a disability? If not, do you think it is possible to get unemployment if I got fired for refusing to come back? Or should I put my two weeks notice in? I have two more days until Friday to do so.. I know I “don’t have to” but I don’t want to just quit as they’re a big employer in my area.