Originally published by Thomas J. Crane.
Every victim of discrimination experiences what Juan Alonzo-Miranda experienced. After he requested the use of a service dog at work, his employer treated him like the “enemy.” Instead of helping him become a better worker, the employer treated him like the enemy. Crying at times, he described his ordeal in trying to satisfy the employer’s request. Schlumberger Technology wanted a form signed by a treating physician. But, the service dog was recommended by a counselor, not a physician. His psychiatrist would not sign the form because he does not prescribe service dogs. The Psychologist would not sign the form because psychologists cannot prescribe medication. Finally, the counselor at the San Antonio Vet Center-Readjustment Counseling Service signed the form. But, the Clinical Social Worker noted on the form that he was not a physician. The Center is part of the Veterans Administration. See the Center’s website here.
The employer pointed out that the plaintiff worked for Schlumberger for 17 months with no incidents of PTSD. But, as the veteran explained, the thing about PTSD is you can carry it around for years with no incident. But, then one flashback flares up and you have incidents for the rest of your life.
Mr. Alonzo-Miranda had already filled out a form allowing Schlumberger access to all of his medical records. The employer could have called his medical care providers and asked for explanations. In May, 2012, he suffered a severe enough episode of PTSD that he had to be evacuated by an ambulance. But, still, the company questioned the sincerity of his accommodation request. And, in the meantime, the flashbacks continue. The stress of dealing with everyday life persists. And, now, added to the PTSD stress is the stress that you might lose your job. See San Antonio Express-News report.
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