Academics, The Workplace and Disabilities

How do you do it?

This is the single most common question I hear from colleagues and mentors as I discuss my disability in the context of my academics and work.  My chronic conditions include: chronic migraine, Ehler's Danlos, and POTS.

First off, I have the single most incredible support system in my family, friends, and mentors.  They all honor my condition and my needs.  I know that this is a critical component that gives me the strength to advocate for my own needs.

I have spent most of my time in academics and in the work place advocating for the assistance and accommodations that are necessary for me to have the same opportunity to succeed in the same manner as my peers.

I've copied this text from the EEOC's "Enforcement Guidance":

"Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990(the "ADA") requires an employer to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment, unless to do so would cause undue hardship.  In general, an accommodation is any change in work environment or in the way things are customarily done that enables an individual with a disability to enjoy equal employment opportunities."(https://www.eeoc.gov/policy/docs/accommodation.html)

I think that it is important to understand the assistance that is available both in education and in the workplace.  Furthermore, it is important to understand that these accommodations are available whether someone can see your disability or not.

As an individual who struggles with chronic migraine, Ehler's Danlos Syndrome, and POTS, I've come to recognize that there are important accommodations in the workplace that assist me in managing a normal workload.

My accommodations include: ability to work in an environment without florescent or to wear sunglasses and/or a hat; flexibility with when I can arrive and depart each day; the understanding and flexibility to have additional sick days when needed; the ability to work from home; removal of weight lifting requirements in jobs where it is unnecessary or optional; and access for my service dog. 

The first time having the conversation about an employer or a school to accommodate you is intimidating as heck!  However, the first day with your accommodations is the best feeling!

I always try to start this conversation as soon as possible, either the day I'm accepted into a school program or the first interview with an employer.  However, I do recognize that this is not always possible.  Sometimes, you get a diagnosis after you've already started working for an employer or already in school, so you want to have the conversation as soon as your diagnosis is confirmed.

No matter where your accommodations journey starts, it should always include an honest conversation with your doctor.  Discuss with your provider the accommodations  you feel like you need, and accommodations they have previously arranged for other patients in your situation to have a work or school.  I even know some doctors that have a template that they adjust for each patient.  Remember, you are the only one that knows your body's needs, so you have to advocate for your needs!

Your office or school may require certain forms or documents be completed by  your doctor.  Understanding your employers requirements will aid in the process going smoothly.  If this is the case, ensure that you come to the meeting prepared with these documents as well or ready to ask for them at an interview.

When an employer agrees to accommodations, be sure to get them in writing.  Even if it is in a follow-up email after the meeting, it is important to have your agree accommodations in writing.

[caption id="attachment_657" align="alignnone" width="960"] The Happy Face I Made The Day I Got Accommodated At Work!

Finally, enforce the accommodations!  It is important, not just for you, that you make sure that if you're employer or school agrees to accommodate you that they do.  Your accommodations are critical to the entire disabled community, so feel empowered!  You're not alone in this journey!

For anyone looking to get accommodated in the workplace, I urge you to ask, because "the answer is always no if you don't ask the question"!

Hope this Helps,

Katelyn Pearson

Disability Accommodations Advocate

the.technicolor.zebra@gmail.com