A Personal Journey: Overcoming Injury and Fighting for Fair Treatment
Date: June 05, 2024
When I reflect on my experience working at Frito-Lay, I am reminded of both the physical pain I endured and the immense struggle for proper medical care. This story is not just about my injury; it’s a testament to the need for fair treatment and support for workers everywhere. It’s a narrative I believe is crucial to share as part of my campaign for Jackson County Commissioner, as it highlights the systemic issues that workers face and my commitment to addressing them.
The Injury and Its Immediate Aftermath
During my time at Frito-Lay, I worked as a detailer while pursuing a promotion to a merchandiser. One day, a coworker repacked a box labeled as chips with bean dip and stacked it eight feet high. Unaware of the box's true contents, I reached for it on my tiptoes, expecting it to be light. Instead, the unexpected weight caused my arm to dislocate and tear my labrum muscle.
My injury was met with a lack of urgency and support from my employer. Despite my evident need for medical attention, I was not seen by a doctor for three months. Instead, I was assigned a physical therapist who met me in the chip aisle three times a week—an arrangement presented as a convenience but was far from effective.
The Battle for Proper Care
The journey to receiving proper care was fraught with obstacles. Frito-Lay cut my work schedule to just four hours a week, a tactic seemingly intended to push me to quit while injured. I was young, naïve, and unaware of my rights as a worker. They initially sent me to an orthopedic surgeon whose nurse assured me he would use a 3D shoulder model during our consultation. However, the surgeon never even touched the model and had a track record of worsening patients’ conditions rather than improving them.
Amid this struggle, I was fortunate to find Dr. Todd Ulmer, the surgeon for the Portland Trail Blazers. Dr. Ulmer identified my symptoms as indicative of a labrum tear, despite it not being visible on MRI images. His recommendation for exploratory surgery, which would turn into a repair surgery if necessary, required special approval—a hurdle that underscored the persistent fight for proper medical care.
Dr. Todd Ulmer: A Beacon of Hope
Dr. Ulmer’s intervention was nothing short of miraculous. His expertise and dedication to his patients were evident from our first meeting. The exploratory surgery confirmed his suspicion, and he successfully repaired my torn labrum. His care restored my ability to function and significantly improved my quality of life.
The entire surgery, excluding prior and post visits, cost $7,500. This amount highlights how premium medical care can be both exceptional and reasonably priced. Workers' compensation covered my expenses, and Dr. Ulmer’s expertise and dedication gave me my life back, showing that top-tier treatment can be life-changing and accessible.
The Bigger Picture: Corporate Greed and Worker Rights
My experience is a microcosm of a larger issue: the exploitation and mistreatment of workers by large corporations like PepsiCo and its subsidiary, Frito-Lay. These entities often prioritize profits over people, fighting workers tooth and nail over the compensation and care they rightfully deserve. They engage in tactics to minimize costs, even if it means compromising the health and well-being of their employees.
This systemic issue is not just about individual experiences but reflects a broader need for policy changes and stronger protections for workers. My story illustrates the lengths to which companies will go to shirk their responsibilities, and the urgent need for advocates who will stand up for workers' rights.
My Commitment to Change
My personal journey through injury and recovery has profoundly shaped my perspective and fueled my commitment to advocating for fair treatment and support for workers. As a candidate for Jackson County Commissioner, I am dedicated to ensuring that no worker has to endure what I did. My experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the struggles workers face and the importance of fighting for their rights. I will leverage my experiences to be a strong advocate for workers.
I will fight for transparency and accountability in corporate practices, advocate for stronger worker rights, and push for reforms that prioritize people over profits. My experience has equipped me with the resilience and determination needed to champion these causes and make meaningful changes in our community.
Conclusion
Sharing my story is not just about recounting past hardships; it’s about using my experiences to drive positive change. I invite you to join me in this fight for fair treatment and support for all workers. Together, we can create a system that values and protects every individual's health, well-being, and rights.
If you have stories or experiences to share, please reach out. Your voice is powerful, and together, we can advocate for a better, fairer future for all workers in Jackson County and beyond.