Imagine dedicating 15 years to a career you love, only to face a medical issue that makes it impossible to continue.
That’s what happened to Julia, a federal employee and mother of two. Here’s how she found a way forward—and how you can, too, if you’re struggling with a similar challenge.
This is a real client story, with the name and personal details adjusted for privacy.
Background: Julia’s Situation and Why Her Career Was on the Line
Who: Julia, 42, a mother of two and an Air Traffic Control Specialist (FAA)
Career: More than 15 years keeping the skies safe with focus and dedication
The Challenge: Chronic back pain made it impossible to continue the work she loved
Medical Conditions: Chronic back pain due to several conditions
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- Spondylolisthesis Pars Defect: A slipped spine bone caused by a small crack.
- Neuroforaminal Stenosis: A narrowing in the spine that pinches nerves.
- Prominent Diffuse Annular Bulge: A bulging disc pressing on nerves.
- Facet Joint Arthrosis: Arthritis in the spine joints causing pain.
- Bilateral Spondylolysis: Stress fractures on both sides of the spine.
The Turning Point: When Pain Became Too Much to Ignore
Julia’s back pain worsened after a long flight in December 2022. Despite:
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- Chiropractic care
- Physical therapy
Her doctors concluded:
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- Surgery was the only long-term solution but required a risky 9+ month recovery.
- Julia could no longer sit or concentrate for prolonged periods. Everyday tasks, like spending time with her kids, became unbearable.
Result:
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- Exhausted all sick leave and unpaid time off (LWOP)
- Declared medically unfit for duty by the FAA
Finding a Solution: How Julia Took Control
Julia’s Goal: Secure financial stability while prioritizing her health.
In May 2023, Julia contacted Harris Federal Law Firm. Her case manager, Rose Still, guided her through:
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- Documenting Medical Records: Reports from her doctors, therapist, and flight surgeon
- Building Her Case: Highlighting the impact on her job and daily life
The Outcome: A New Beginning
Julia’s Federal Disability Retirement was approved within a year.
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- Financial Stability: A secure monthly payment
- Peace of Mind: Time to focus on recovery and family
In Julia’s Words:
“Stepping away from a career I loved was hard, but prioritizing my health was essential. Harris Federal’s patience, professionalism, and guidance were invaluable. I am now at peace, confident I made the right decision.”
Could This Be Your Story?
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- Julia, an FAA Air Traffic Control Specialist, could no longer work due to severe back pain from a handful of medical issues.
- With Harris Federal’s guidance, she successfully secured Federal Disability Retirement.
- This benefit provided financial stability, continued health coverage, and time to focus on recovery.
If you’re a federal employee struggling with chronic pain or illness, and your job performance is suffering because of a medical condition, Federal Disability Retirement could be your solution.
You’ll get:
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- Monthly income
- Continued health and life insurance
- You’ll keep earning years toward your pension without working
- Freedom to work in the private sector for additional income
Take the first step. Schedule a free consultation today to see if you qualify.
Let us guide you toward the benefits you deserve.
