[Kitty]

Well, I knew it would happen eventually......my days of working full time have come to an end.

As many of you know I began working from home at the beginning of the year due to the company I work for accomodating my limitations and moving my office to my home. The company has been going through many changes, downsizing and closing several offices and sending the work to headquarters. This is what's happening to the office I have worked in.

Well, they talked to me last week and said that instead of elimiating me they will allow me to apply for LTD through the company and offer me a generous severance package. I guess 15 years of my life working for them has paid off a little. Oh, and continue my medical coverage at their expense through the end of this year (12/08)! For that I am SO thankful.

So, now I've got to research applying for SSDI and hope and pray that my LTD isn't delayed. I cannot begin receiving it until June (have to wait 90 days).

I've worked since I was 16 years old. I'm not quite sure how to do this.....I'd like to do some volunteer work I think - maybe work with Meals on Wheels while I can still drive. I love elderly people - I enjoy talking to them and listening to their stories of the "old days".

Ya'll wish me luck on this new phase of my life. Seems strange not to have a job...

[AfterMyNap]

When I went down that road, the best advice I got came from the president of my company; he told me that my identity is not in what I do, but in who I am and the rest comes along with that. It's a strange place to be at first, but in my life at least, for everything MS has taken away, it has added something else.

You're here on Earth for a reason, Kelly, when the reason is gone, you will be too.

[Twinkletoes]

Wow, Kelly. You seem cautiously upbeat about this major life change. Gotta admire you for that!

Yeah, what AMN said about it not being your identity is great advice.

I expect a new world will open up to you. Now you can work for pleasure instead of the paycheck! Sounds good to me! I hope you find something to occupy your time and abilities that is a good fit. Working with the elderly could be very rewarding for you -- got for it!!!

Hugs and best wishes to you.

[Kitty]

I'm trying to remain optimistic about it. I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason and it will be revealed to me what I'm supposed to do next. Worrying over it won't do anything but send me into a flare-up and I sure don't want to do that!!

[karousel]

The company you worked for is wonderful with what they are giving you! I like your positive attitude and hope you are able to help out with Meals on Wheels and give to others. Best of luck with this change, I hope all works out well for you.

[MSacorn]

You are very lucky to work for such a caring company. What they are doing for you is going above and beyond in my book. Kudos to them!

I think volunteering for MOW is an awesome use of your time. You'll keep seeing positive results and it will give you time to reflect on the past and create a new future. Treasure each moment.

[sheena]

It's a good deal Kitty. A lot of paperwork, but u will be fine. Go for it.

[Kitty]

Thanks everyone - I'm feeling strangely comfortable with this....and I think it's because I was able to work from home for several months. I'm used to being here at home and have my own little routine. It's not like being in the office 12 hours a day every day and then WHAM - being stuck at home.

I do hope to begin some volunteer projects but will need to find something to do here at home to generate a little bit of additional income. Anyone have any ideas?

[weegot5kiz]

being at home may make that diff Kelly. I went from working since I was 13 -15 and then 16 on full tilt and then wham my it hit me hard and full time hours stopped quickly and it was an adjustment for me, 30 yrs of working then change it was an eye opener

You letter sounds good and upbeat, you have a game plan in your mind which is good, also good luck with SSi

that was nice of the company to work with you give you that extra package of insurance and all, I think your time there was appreciated Kelly, In some ways i want to say congrats yet I know what you are feeling think a hug is better, don't let it stress you and its one day at a time

[PolarExpress]

Originally Posted by herekitty1960

Thanks everyone - I'm feeling strangely comfortable with this....and I think it's because I was able to work from home for several months. I'm used to being here at home and have my own little routine. It's not like being in the office 12 hours a day every day and then WHAM - being stuck at home.

I do hope to begin some volunteer projects but will need to find something to do here at home to generate a little bit of additional income. Anyone have any ideas?

I'm glad this is working out to your satisfaction, Kelly! Never an easy choice.. As to what to do now..I'm thinking (shut up! It happens!)..
Do you have any hobbies that you enjoy that could translate into additional income? Is there a job-find service in your area that would help find part time, work from home employment? If I come up with any other ideas, I'll let you know..I'm sure I'm not too far behind you here, so I'm rootin' for ya!