Do you have a chronic illness? What job do you have?

[Anonymous]

I have Crohns and it has been mostly inactive for the past few years. It was really hard when I was having flares, especially at a place that only had PTO (not separate sick time). I found a job that was much more understanding about Drs. appointments and supported me during my surgery etc. Now I work somewhere with a similar culture. I think you need to look for the right environment. I like that I have been able to work for many reasons: financial stability, good health insurance, a sense of accomplishment. I fought through those tough years, and I think if I had quit, it would have been easy to be depressed and just drifted. I am lucky though in that I have felt really good for many years--I understand that some conditions are truly chronic with no relief.

[Anonymous]

OP here. Thank you for all the different perspectives. I have really been struggling with what makes sense for me and my family. I have been admitted to the hospital around four times this year and I realized I was more stressed about having to call work than anything else! I will keep you all updated.