[CA] WFH denied, now what?
My company had a flexible WFH policy even before 2020, but since December 2025 we have been required to work 2 days in the office.
I’ve been with the company (tech) for nearly 20 years and I’m a director.
Five weeks ago I was in a motorcycle accident resulting in 16 broken bones in my leg and a good percentage of my lower body has been burned.
I was in the hospital and then a rehab facility and just got home. I’m bed bound, but I have no problems sitting up and working on my computer. My pain is managed without anything that interferes with thinking.
My doctor absolutely does not want me going into the office for the next 8 weeks. It’s too high of a safety risk plus I need assistance with taking care of my ADLs. I only leave home for medical appointments of absolute necessity. My girlfriend has moved in with me and my mom is also staying here for awhile. I also have nursing staff that comes daily.
HR denied WFH, and not just for the two days I’m required to be in the office. They want me to continue my leave. However, my understanding is that I only have 12 weeks of protected leave. I will need this time later since I still need to have between 3-6 more surgeries.
I want to appeal this decision. I have successfully done my full job remotely for years, I’m already set up for remote work as I was doing it 3 days per week and there is no way to safely work at the office.