If it’s significant and you have a lawyer friend or union that can confirm the contract, it might be worth it asking. Some states have started fighting hard against these types of benefits. Don’t want to get your heart up, since straight cash is harder to do this with, but it could be a a partial payment or something. Also, I’m basing this off the comment about burning bridges, that would be something to also consider.

I know y’all are going through so much, and getting squeezed, and don’t want you to miss it!

(Ps, not a nurse, just here for sympathy and perspective for family members that are/were. This is not legal advice blah blah)