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How do you get an extension on disability/maternity leave/FMLA? What have other moms done?

Katrina - posted on 07/12/2012 ( 3 moms have responded )

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My son was born on 5/30 at 24 5/7 weeks. He was 1lb 5oz. My work said I had to take my maternity leave all at once and when he comes home in September (tentatively) I'd have only 2 weeks. There has got to be a way to get an extension. I cant imagine going back to work while he is still in the NICU and not having any time when he comes home?? What have other moms done?

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Stephanie - posted on 08/03/2012

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My daughter was born at 25 weeks, and weighed 1lb 3oz. I was not able to extend anything! I tried everything, especially since she cannot be in daycare until she is 2 because of the risk of RSV. Iwas told if she does get sick and is hospitalized, then I could get medical disabilty. What a joke! I am trying to prevent her from getting sick. Thank goodness I have a husband who is trades and is willing to work the exta hours needed. He works 15 hours a day, and I am looking to do some data entry from home. But finding at home work in Canada is hard. Good luck! Its tight for us, but we make it work

Kim - posted on 07/29/2012

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Maternity leave and fmla are not one in the same. Depending on the size of company you probably have a specific maternity policy which is set in stone. When that period of time is over, the remaining FMLA is flexible. I believe that is a fed thing, but not sure if all companies opt to be flexible. In my situation, baby was in NICU for 5 weeks. Maternity leave was for 8. After the 8 week, I went to HR and asked for permission to come back part time. It was granted and I worked only 1/2 days which extended my fmla 8 weeks. Another NICU mom I know ended up going back to work 3 days a week while her dtr was still in NICU so she could have the weeks off when her baby was released. My best advice is to not feel you have to be at the NICU all day everyday. Best of luck to your micro preemie! I hope it all works out for you :)

Emily - posted on 07/23/2012

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I wish there was an easy answer for this!! I wasn't able to get any extension on my maternity leave. Had to go back to work on my baby's due date :(

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