Elaine, Thank you so much for your advice. Comming from suburban Los Angeles to a small, rural town is not only a culture shock, but there are some very intersting dynamics that go on. My employer (also the owner of the company) gathered up several people, who would rather lie than loose their job, to give recorded statements that I didn't get hurt at work. I only know this because several employees have come to me to tell me what was happening. This employer is beyond words with the things she thinks she can do however, it has had an impact on my treatment. With these recordings in hand, she convinced the insurance company to authorize no further treatment. My attorney has told me I will have my chance to dispute this, but again in the meanwhile I have no treatment for my injuries. I had no idea that one could file a complaint against the insurance company or that my employer is not allowed to deter the insurance company. I will do my research on these subjects and see if I can get some help. Again, thank you so much! I really appreciate your help. Kelly

This is the first time I’ve every done something like this and it is difficult so please bear with me. I am Kelly and I am a Registered Nurse. I've spent many years having the opportunity to do what I love, helping others in need. I have been the caregiver and advocate for others who are suffering from illness or injury and also a liaison for family members who are caught in the painful, sometime powerless feeling of watching their loved ones go through illness or injury.

Now I find myself in the position of needing help. I was injured at work, but I am told it will be months until I receive any help financially. I have lost just about everything, except my home. And I am terrified I will loose that too. As a nurse I have faced emergencies with skill and professionalism, but I’m afraid I’ve hit a problem I am not able to fix. As difficult as it is for me to ask for help, I would imagine it is also difficult for someone to offer help to a virtual stranger, so let me give you a bit of insight into who I am.

I accepted the position as Director of Nursing at my current job. This facility's pay is very low with no health insurance or other health benefits, no sick time, vacation or holiday pay. This facility also had a reputation of doing very badly during state visits and has an administrator who is known for treating her staff poorly and letting the people in her care do without even some of the most basic of needs.

I had my work cut out for me. But I did not take the job because it would be easy. I took the job because I saw a need for my skills and expertise and I knew I could make a difference in the lives of the patients and the staff. I firmly believe that everyone, regardless of their financial or social status, deserve the best care available. And with the help of other dedicated staff members, I was able to create an environment that was focused on the well-being of those under my care. The patients and staff now had someone who was not afraid to speak up for them. Someone who put the patient's needs above all else and set the standard for other health care professionals in the facility. Having State Survey cite no deficiencies (the first time in over 10 years) was an added bonus. But the best indicator that I was doing my job was on the faces of those in my care. It wasn't uncommon for me to clock out at three but not leave until four. As I would make my way toward the door, patients would stop me and want to talk to me, share stories with me or just want to exchange pleasantries as I left and make sure I was coming back 'tomorrow'.

In my private life, I purchased a major fixer-upper. But it was love at first sight! By doing the renovations ourselves, we have saved thousands I’m sure and it also helps that we have been lucky enough to find things others don’t want and use it for this task. Even though this project has had to come to a halt since I’ve been injured, I know that the rest of the ceilings will be put up, we’ll be able to paint the drywall and have a tub to use down the road.

But in the meanwhile, I am in what seems to be a hurt at work nightmare as my boss and the insurance company refuse to get me the medical treatment I so desperately need and agree to give me temporary total disability. I am so lost, scarred and in so much pain. My hope is that there are people out there who would be willing to help me financially or by any other means available. My mortgage is $296 per month (one advantage of getting such a fixer-upper). And since we have been cutting back on bills, my bills are about $150 per month. Any help at all would be so appreciated. I could even make arrangements to pay back a loan if someone is willing to help in that way.

I have heard that adversity can bring out the best in people. I believe that with my whole heart. I’ve been privileged enough to see it during my career. Finding this website has really opened some doors for me and it is my deepest desire that once I am back on my feet again, that I return the favor by helping others in need.

Thank you so much for reading my story.
Kelly

Hi, I'm Kelly and I am a Nurse in Need of Your Help

I am a woman who has dedicated my life to helping others but sadly, I was injured at work and was told by the doctor to stop working. The doctors think that the damage to my knees are extensive but my employer says the injuries are unverified and has convinced the insurance company to hold off treatment. Even though I have been treated terribly by my employer and the insurance company, I still have faith in the caring and compassion of others. It is with this belief that I humbly ask for help. Although financial help is what I need so desparately, even a kind word or some advise will be greatly appreciated.

If you would like more information about me and the help I need, please click on my AidPage 'Can you please help a nurse in need?'

Hello, I am Kelly and I am a Registered Nurse. I've spent many years having the opportunity to do what I love, helping others in need. I have been the caregiver and advocate for others who are suffering from illness or injury and also a liason for family members who are caught in the painful, sometime powerless feeling of watching their loved ones go through illness or injury.

Now I find myself in the position of needing help. I was injured at work and my employer is denying the validity of the claim. While this has to be worked out in court, which could take months, I have lost the only source of income for my family...me. I have no income and bills that will not wait. My biggest fear is that I will loose my home since I am unable to pay my mortgage of $296 per month and it is already overdue. It is so difficult to ask for help, but I would imagine it is just as difficult to offer help to someone you do not know so if I may, I will give you insight into who I am.

I accepted the position as Director of Nursing at my current job. This facility's pay is very low with no health insurance or other health benefits, no sick time, vacation or holiday pay. This facility also had a reputation of doing very badly during state visits and has an administrator who is known for treating her staff poorly and letting the people in her care do without even some of the most basic of needs.

I had my work cut out for me and I was up to the challenge. But I did not take the job because it would be easy. I took the job because I saw a need for my skills and expertise and I knew I could make a difference in the lives of the patients and the staff. I firmly believe that everyone, regardless of their financial or social status, deserve the best care available. And with the help of other dedicated staff members, I was able to create an environment that was focused on the well-being of those under my care. The patients and staff now had someone who was not afraid to speak up for them. Someone who put the patient's needs above all else and set the standard for other health care professionals in the facility. Having State Survey cite no deficiencies (the first time in over 10 years) was an added bonus. But the best indicator that I was doing my job was on the faces of those in my care. It wasn't uncommon for me to clock out at three but not leave until four. As I would make my way toward the door, patients would stop me and want to talk to me, share stories with me or just want to exchange pleasantries as I left and make sure I was coming back 'tomorrow'.

In my private life, I had my work cut out for me too. We had bought an extreme fixer-upper, but I fell in love with the house at first sight and knew, once the work was finished, it would be a wonderful home to grow old in. We have been doing all the work ourselves, but the work on our home has come to a stand still since there is not money to complete the projects still needing to be done.

Don't get me wrong. I do not mind living in our home that still needs so much work. I figured we may even be able to do without electricity if it comes to that, but I am terrified to loose our home. We would then be put out in the streets.

If anyone is able to help, I would be so greatful. And please, any help would be appreciated, no matter what it is.

Thank you for taking the time to ready my story.

Bless you all!