help i am so frustrated at this point, i have seen tons of docs, two emgs,vioxx, celebrex and others. no cortizone yet but just found out i am preg. so no shots or surg now. been told now to just wear braces and poss cortizone in second or third trimester. i have been out of work for 3 mos now, with no pay cause w/c has not given me any benefits. i am seeing w/c docs and my own personal docs. w/c doc won't write me out of work but yet in his reports he sais i should not be working. my personal doc has written me out but am in process of suing my empl for back pay right now and damages at a later date. i am at my wits end right now, have mediation set up for tomorrow between me and my lawyer, a rep from mo workmans comp and the empl insurance company. help!!! please someone tell me there is a light at the end of the tunnel. ps they said i will need surgery after this baby is born. please if anyone has advice or has/is in this same boat please respond thank you amiee

There is always light at the end of a tunnel. I do know what you are going thru. My employer did not report my claim to worker's comp. They singled me out for overtime work, extra responsibilities that aggravated my condition(driving etc.) Then wanted to know, (prior to firing me) if I was going to sue them. You are doing the right thing by staying off work. In my case I continued to work and now I suffer from chronic pain in one hand/arm(even after surgery). Your health is important. If you take care of yourself now, hopefully after surgery you will be alright. As far as your settlement, don't expect much(your expenses and a little extra). My employer really just covered up their mistakes with lies and threats.(Suing and educational/gov. institution is not easy.) Stay tough, and let us know if you have a boy or girl.

Just a little FYI -- it you are going to sue, you cannot receive work comp benefits!