Showing posts with label laid-off. Show all posts
Showing posts with label laid-off. Show all posts

Friday, January 25, 2013

The Strategic Plan



It’s been an interesting week here in the heart of the Rust Belt.

On Tuesday, I joined my wife as being laid-off from the same employer. Nearly 65 years of loyalty, wiped-out six months apart. With no insurance for either one of us beginning in February it’s been a race to take care of a three-month pharmaceutical supply and look into a surgery I put-off for a year or more.

Good News/Bad News


After visiting a physician (who now practices with a different healthcare system) for what I believed was a meniscus tear, the x-rays and MRI came back normal. The bad news is: I have a rare bone disease that causes my knee to buckle invariably while walking. Which equates to a bigger problem- who will hire a 56-year old male that walks like a crippled person at times?

Watcha’ Gonna’ Do?


The best option all along was to hire myself. I’ve gotten several ideas in mind to generate my own income and no longer be “someone’s cog in the system.” I am amazed in the short time I’ve been unemployed with the ideas I’ve gotten and hopefully a couple of those projects will pay the bills. We are only limited by the constraints- we place upon ourselves.

Being the Best


I was blown away by the accommodations the physician and his staff attempted to arrange after explaining my insurance would expire in a week. My former employer’s orthopedic department nearly laughed at me on the phone when given the same opportunity. Not quite the “expert care” advertized! My co-payment would have been less if the surgery and physician care was done in-house.
Upon explaining our situation to the physician, his jaw dropped and his comment was: “Unbelievable.” It was pleasant to learn his views and thoughts were exactly the same as mine. He truly sympathizes with the employees affected by the Strategic Plan and layoffs. I overheard his nurses say: “I’ve never had to arrange a standard procedure so quickly.”
You and your staff have my loyalty, trust and heart. I knew you would come through on such short notice and I am so grateful for your efforts! I will never forget your integrity, passion and commitment towards your patients.

The Theater of Pain


We were told less than 1% (25 or so) of the employees would be affected by the layoff, but judging from reports I am hearing, it could have been more. The organization did not file a report with Ohio WARN for a mass layoff (of 50 or more employees) so It's possible another layoff could happen. During my travels around town today, I am hearing word on the street of their partnership deal has already been signed and the average citizen can’t  understand why it is being kept secret from the employees.
My thoughts are it makes the partnering party look like the good guy once the deal is announced and the layoffs are already done. I have yet to hear of any management or administration positions being eliminated. My wife believes around 14 LPN’s will be affected after providing advice to that group. Sadly, I learned of another couple who was/is employed and signed mortgage papers for a house the night before her spouse was laid-off, Wednesday.
Many of us had decades of employment and are over the age of 50, some folks affected have spouses or children with disabilities and their former employer was the only source for affordable insurance. Some of those people are single mothers with children. My heart and prayers go out to all of those families.

My Pride and Joy


Last night, I wrote the introduction to my new forthcoming book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. This weekend I will focus on laying out the chapters. For me, writing is the most therapeutic exercise possible.
 It shouldn’t take but a month or two to finish this expose. My original idea was to wait until I retired to write the book. Thanks to my former employer that day will likely be February 1st!
Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver
Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!

www.successthroughmusic.com
Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

This Blog is For You!!



Being laid-off yesterday from my previous employer for nearly 32 years provided a manic day of highs and lows for me. I stayed –up until sunrise writing and thinking. Lots of questions kept shooting through my mind. I sent emails, made phone calls and searched Google for questions, seeking clarity, comfort or solutions.  

Then, I realized everything doesn’t have to be known all at once.
My obsessive compulsive mind was racing due to the fear of the unknown. The long term is something none of us can control. Only God knows the outcome. He is the only one I can put my trust in to lead me to where He wants me. Today is all we have to make a difference.
After I finally slept this morning, it was time to take care of some more business. I have the evening to write, connect and hopefully be creative with some new ideas. I am hoping this time allows my creative juices to inspire you and present a few new ideas. In my case, I need to make some decisions, move forward with purpose, strength and experience.
I am excited to finally have the opportunity to speak my mind. Those of you who know me realize; I have no problem dissecting situations. I’ve often found myself in situations where I had to censor stories to the extent that part of the story wasn’t printed. I went through that situation when I wrote my first book and most of my previous blogs. Now I am thrilled to be able to express my beliefs, experiences and thoughts.

My First Guest Blog Post

My friend Mary, asked me to provide a guest post for her wonderful blog back in December. I initially hesitated because I had never provided a guest blog before in my life and my fear was it wouldn’t do her audience justice. The other day I wrote a blog that was somewhat different than my normal rants and I thought it was time to take a chance. Your kind words and thoughts have been uplifting and timing impeccable.
Thank you, Mary!
You may find Mary’s Blog here, so visit her site often as she is a great storyteller, devout Christian and takes a heroic stand for political justice.

You've Touched My Heart

I must thank my wife, Jane Carver, for her love and support (I’ve nicknamed her “The Hospital Slayer” for having the courage to stand-up for her rights and dignity). God blessed me with Jane as a wife, companion and best friend! She is a pillar of strength.
My Mother, who is always there to listen, sympathizes and offer encouragement. I couldn’t ask for a better Mom!
Ann Musico- you are such a blessing to have met online and your continued support inspires me.
Michael Gough- Your humbling message has inspired me as you always do!
Cheryl Wynn- for your conviction and telling me to keep my chin-up!
The comments and support from my co-workers and friends have helped to take the sting out of the latest adventure. Some of the folks online I’ve never met and people I haven’t seen since 1975 really made my day with your comments and opinions. Jane and I truly are blessed to have you in our circle of friendship. We thank you all from our heart!
Last but not least- those who were afraid to post, connect or express themselves, in which case- This Blog is for you!
Until We Meet Again,
 Jim Carver
Author: The Legacy of David A. Wells- The Lexington High School “Band of Gold”
Something Meaningful that Matters!

www.successthroughmusic.com
Disclaimer- Books and links on this website contain affiliate marketing sources between Jim Carver and third party companies. I only recommend products, brands and businesses that I strongly support. Photos used on this site are used courtesy of the original authors and in no way endorse The Rust Belt Chronicles or my work. Thank you.