“I’ve worked in the legal field for over two decades, primarily as a court clerk. When I joined the federal judiciary in 2007, I consistently met or exceeded expectations and upheld the highest standards of professionalism.
In late 2018, everything changed. After a building upgrade, I was repeatedly exposed to airborne irritants that triggered severe asthma and anxiety. I began experiencing respiratory infections, difficulty breathing, and other symptoms, all of which worsened over time.
When I requested reasonable accommodations, including clean air and workspace adjustments, my manager denied the request without any interactive process — claiming I had no disability and simultaneously citing vague “performance and conduct issues.” I was left confused, targeted, and sick.
Hoping to resolve the matter, I filed an internal complaint. The settlement promised a dedicated space for my air purifier and a correction to false entries in my personnel file. Instead, I waited over eight months for relief, was reprimanded for my absences, and was forced to provide doctor’s notes for any sick day. While other employees received accommodations promptly, I was singled out, penalized, and left in unsafe conditions.
While other employees received accommodations promptly, I was singled out, penalized, and left in unsafe conditions.
When I finally received a workspace modification in 2022, it was inadequate. I developed bronchitis twice in two months. I filed a second complaint.
The retaliation escalated. New rules targeted my medical needs: I was required to report in person — before and after — any asthma or IBS emergency, even if that meant traveling 100 feet to a supervisor’s office before using the restroom. This policy ignored the urgency of my conditions and served only to humiliate and endanger me. My work was micromanaged, my bathroom breaks timed, and my humanity dismissed.
In June 2022, after being denied FMLA leave during a medical crisis, I suffered a severe asthma attack in the office. While I was in distress, a supervisor struck me on the back. The paramedics were called but were initially barred from treating me. I truly believed I might die on the floor that day. Thankfully, the paramedics insisted on intervention, administered IV medications, and transported me to the ER.
I was later diagnosed with PTSD on top of existing anxiety, depression, and mood disorder. I never returned to work. The trauma was too great. While on medical leave, I received a formal proposal for termination — blaming me for the “disturbance” my medical emergencies had caused in the workplace.
The abuse I endured since becoming disabled has left lasting damage, not only to my health but to my entire life. I am still recovering.”