I recently had cervical spine surgery (cervical spine discectomy and fusion) and am unable to return to work or do basic activities for at least a month until after my first follow-up appointment with my neurosurgeon. Due to my appointments and visits leading up to the surgery, I have exhausted my already small amount of vacation and sick time I had accrued for the year, and don’t have short-term disability available at my employer. Because of my limited mobility and range of motion of my neck as it heals, I can’t drive myself anywhere and have relied on an amazing friend for basic grocery and pharmacy needs, so I’m also going a little stir crazy as I am not used to being so confined and this loss of freedom is wearing on me physically and mentally.
I will miss at least two complete paychecks and had no savings leading up to this, and I had just gotten my finances back on track and caught up prior to everything and finding out this was needed. I am frustrated with myself for being in this situation, upset with everything in general, and I don’t know what to do. I am behind on rent now, have utilities due, still need to eat for the rest of the month, and need to compensate my friend for transportation to the upcoming follow up visits.
I was trying to work out other methods of income, but I haven’t been able to make that happen. Any help is appreciated (some examples might include direct bill payments, grocery orders, sharing the link, any other way you feel comfortable or are able, etc), and I’m truly sorry to ask at all.
Thanks as always for all your love and support.
UPDATE, June 28:
I’ve been able to return to work this week, but it will be several weeks before I have a full paycheck, and more bills and rent will be past due by then. I’m healing well, and making progress, but still have to take it easy and am staying extremely exhausted.
Thank you all for the support, thoughts, and reaching out. I appreciate each of you.