Hi netsavy...I don't know what to say other than telling you my experience. When I got sick I had to take a medical leave however I did not get well enough to go back when they required me to....so they fired me. I sued the State of Michigan to get my pension but it took almost 3 years to settle. I got my pension with full benefits and social security. I also started working as a bouncer in a bar that paid me under the table. I was feeling much better at the time but finally had to quit that because I was drinking there. I am a recovering alcoholic. You do waht have to to do. I thought I was going to end up homeless till the state gave me my retirement. I don't know if that is an option for you.