2005 AGN JUN 07 I09 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Vicki Porter 8615 Tropicana Dr. Riverside, CA 92504 May 24, 2005 Honorable Mayor and Councilmember's 650 N. La Cadena Dr. Colton, CA 92324 I have had the pleasure of serving as the Executive Assistant for the Human Resources Director of the City of Colton for the last seven (7) years. I would first like to express my gratitude toward and appreciation of. Daryl Parrish, Anthony Arroyo and the many employees that have given their moral support and/or donated leave to help me through a severe health condition that has stripped me of my life as I know it. I thank God every day; I am truly blessed in many ways and have been astonished by the compassion and tender care that has been afforded me. I went to the doctor in July to ask for stronger pain medication again for a neck disease I have, he changed my medication, gave me a tetanus shot and sent me home. A long story short, I had an allergic reaction that made everything in my upper respiratory swell and that was the straw that broke the camels back. I haven't been able to control the pain at all since and the amount of time I can be even a little productive diminishes daily. I am now having to take many different medications including high levels of narcotics, which have their own side effects too. I was told many years ago that when the pain got too bad, surgery would at least get me to retirement. Now the doctors are saying that more than half of my neck is affected and two (2) different surgeons refused to do the surgery because of the probable risks. I have multiple level joint disease, degenerative disk disease and degenerative arthritis (Osteoarthritis) in the advance stages which complicates things even more. As head of my household (financially) who was not ready to retire, I am trying to find the best way possible to help my family. Anything you can do will be very much appreciated! The cause of this problem was an accident with a semi (truck) over 20 years ago, I stayed strong as long as I could, but it was not long enough. It is not the City's responsibility to supplement my income, but I have used the precious time I was given so far to prepare as much as possible and I do appreciate everyone's generosity and the opportunity I have been given. The amount of my retirement is small, but if all goes well and prayers come true, we will be able to hold onto our home. According to the Rules and Regulations an employee may go on leave of absence without pay for six (6) months with the permission of the City Manager and an additional six (6) months with the permission of the City Council during which time you are allowed to use the donated leave to keep you on paid status. In August I will have eight (8) years of service with the City of Colton and ask that you grant my continued leave of absence until the end of August. Any additional time calculated with PERS helps. Thank you for considering my request, but as I stated before, I know that this is not your responsibility and understand that there are many variables behind your decision. Sincerely Vicki Porter