My Work is not even willing to accomdate my migraines and what do I do?
I was hired for a job in March of 2009. Before i was hired my last manager told my current manager that I had migraines but otherwise I was a great employee. When I interview with my manager I told him I had migraines and I would sometimes need to wear sunglasses inside. I also told my assistant and front manager when I started working. I very rarely call out when I have a migraine only recently my managers have thrown fits whenever I wear my sunglasses at the reception desk. I have been trying to be accomdating asking if they could shut the curtains in the lobby. turn down the lights or if I bought sunglasses that looked more like regular glasses. Today my manager through such a fit that he made me cry and then I ended up throwing up. I couldn't call out as they say I have alot of absences which are because of my migraines and them not allowing me to wear sunglasses. I also have to drive an hour just to get to work and the meds I am on I can not drive on so, I have to wait to get to work to take them. I keep trying to ask them to atleast meet half way some way but, I'm seeing no action but, getting myself more sick.
Dear Christina -
Employers are required by law to accommodate our Migraines. They don't get a choice. Do you have a Human Resources department? If so, I would speak to them first. Bring them a copy of this sharepost about the Americans with Disabilities Act and the accommodations they are required to make. If there isn't an HR department, you may need to bring it straight to your manager. You need to let them know that they have a legal duty to make it possible for you to perform your job, and your sunglasses make it possible to do that. You are not looking for special favors, but just to be able to do your job like anyone else. Find a time to talk when you don't have a migraine and are not upset, and be firm. If your employer is large enough to be covered by ADA (15 employees or more and all governmental entities), and they do not accommodate you, you can file a complaint with the EEOC.
Good luck!
- Megan
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