Carolyn Washko, 52
Thornhurst, Pa.I've worked in the auto industry for 33 years. But as of August, I have not been working. I was in a terrible car accident, and ever since, I'm simply not physically capable.
I can barely stand up for 5 to 10 minutes, and I can't sit still either. My right hand is partially paralyzed and I have weakness on my right side.
I don't qualify for unemployment benefits because I wasn't let go. In fact, my boss is kindly keeping the job open for me in case I recover. In the meantime, I've been applying for disability benefits, but my first application was turned down.
My plan was to work until we paid off our house, which I figured would take until I turned 70. We'll be okay for another three or four months, but after that we'll have money problems.
It's a constant fight. I want to work, but the only thing stopping me from going back is this disability.
NEXT: Studying in the evenings
