Hey I'm so glad you posted this update and that you found a lawyer to help you out. I understand what you're going through - I was in a bad car accident when I was 24 that permanently fucked my neck up and I didn't know any better, so after doing a bunch of physio I accepted a check from the insurance company for like $2000. Years later with a fucked up neck still, I realized I should have gotten a lawyer immediately and I at least would have gotten a much bigger settlement to compensate for my chronic injury at such a young age. I'll never make that mistake again.

You had every reason to believe that your employer would support you and do the right thing. Nobody wants to think they are going to be fucked over by the people who are supposed to have our best interests in mind. But this was a valuable lesson for you - now you'll remember that no corporation will ever have your best interests as their top priority. They will always choose profits over people, every single time. Please don't ever forget that, and protect yourself accordingly.

Good luck and I hope this helps your life turn around now! I look forward to seeing your future updates with your company getting raked over =]