Palm Coast, FL
August 2002

Hi, my name is Joyce and I want to share my story with you.

I was injured on the job in August of 2002 while lifting heavy packages. I went right to the clinic and was out of work for 2 years. During that time, I had not hired an Attorney, and was not even aware that I would need one. I was not out for anything. I just wanted the use of my right arm again.

My Primary Care Physician said I would not be able to do that type of work again, and said I should transfer to another department. The type of Agency I was in required a Degree for any of the other positions, and I had not finished College.

Here is where I made my first mistake. I resigned from my position, as a cook, so the agency could fill that position. I felt bad to leave them short staffed. At that point, I lost my medical coverage, and was to be 2 years without any, other than anything pertaining to my injury. What a fool I was, as nice guys finish last.

I was sent to Physical Therapy for 6 months, had Cortisone shots, and Medication, all of which did not help. I was in pain and could not lift my arm above a certain level. During this time, I had dealt with Workers Compensation by myself, and felt OK with it, because they were taking responsibility for my injury and sending my compensation on a regular basis. I had a medical Case Manager who helped me with any services I needed. I did not see a need for professional representation.

Finally my Doctor said I needed surgery, and we agreed it was what was best for me. It was all set up and Workers Compensation agreed to pay for it. At this point I was all alone, living in Massachusetts. I knew that I needed help having the surgery and for my recovery. I asked my Workers Compensation Adjuster, if I could move to Florida with my children and have the surgery there. He said it wasn't a problem at all, and for me to move there and set up the services I needed.

The first thing I ran into was, trying to find a Surgeon who would accept out of state Workers Compensation. They canceled my medical Case Manager, so I was on my own. Finally after 6 long, painful months, I found a Surgeon who was willing to see me, and the Workers Compensation adjuster set up an appointment. At this point I thought I was seeing the Surgeon to set a date for my surgery. Well, big mistake. He wrote a report for Workers Compensation saying I could return to work, full time, with "NO LIMITATIONS". I was heartsick and very scared, especially at 54 years old. I knew I couldn't return to being a cook, and I knew I couldn't use that arm on any job, the way it was injured. I was unable to use my arm for even the simplest chores and daily living skills. I was not able to sleep, and was in constant pain.

I received a letter from Workers Compensation stating the discontinuance of my benefits. I didn't know what to do, as Workers Compensation had scheduled a hearing in Boston, Massachusetts, and I was in Florida. Now I couldn't sleep and was quite depressed and very unsure of what to do. My son suggested I find an Attorney to consult with. I called and emailed about a hundred Attorneys, and was shocked to find they would not take my case as I had been injured in Massachusetts. Now, I was real distraught. I cried all the time and just didn't know what to do. I couldn't even function with my day to day life.

I was doing some research one evening on Attorneys in the Massachusetts area, and came across the Law Firm of Cline and Migner. I thought, what have I got to lose and sent them an email. Within hours, I had a response, via my e-mail. Mr. Migner asked if he could phone me and he did right away. we chatted for 2 hours and I explained my situation to him. He took my case right away and faxed me the paperwork, and I had hired myself an Attorney. He contacted Workers Compensation and represented me, went to the hearing and got the judge, to order Workers Compensation to pay for my surgery and also to not discontinue my benefits.

I knew I was in good hands, and that this Attorney was truly working for my best interests. I began to feel there was hope for my situation.I ended up returning to Massachusetts to have the surgery, and I have recently returned to my permanent home in Florida. I have the use of my arm again, after almost 2 solid years of pain and much suffering. I feel that I will make a full recovery.

My point in sharing what happened to me is to suggest that you not try to handle things with Workers Compensation alone. Do not to trust The adjusters or anyone from Workers Compensation. They will appear to be on your side and then when you least expect it, they will try to burn you. Do yourself a favor and have an attorney fighting for you, "RIGHT AWAY". Even if they accept responsibility for your injuries, and begin paying you, all they need is a Doctor to write what they want and you own your pain.

In closing, I would like to thank the Law Office of Cline & Migner from Worcester, Massachusettes, for their team of hard workers, in getting me the surgery I needed, getting me back on my feet and home to my family, and also, for fighting for what I was entitled to as an injured and very scared 55 year old woman.

P.S.

Just letting you know that I did receive my settlement check today. I want to thank you both for your work in getting me all straightened out with this. You both did an awesome job in helping me for 2 years. and I am very grateful to both of you.

You both were a Godsend for me when I needed you most. Again, I am truly grateful!

Sincerely,
Joyce B.
Plam Coast, Florida