ADA discrimination for wearing a walking boot? Please help!
Location: Texas
I was selected as 1 in 10 students for a short term (10-12 weeks) summer paid internship for in veterinary medicine. This program begins June 1st and covers wildlife, equines, clinics and it a great opportunity for me and any future vet school applications. I accepted the offer, signed a contract, and was in the process of sending in I-9 documents.
To preface, I broke my ankle in March, had ORIF surgery, had some complications and was taken back for an unexpected hardware removal last week. 9 weeks out, I was full weight bearing in a normal shoe, walking normally, so I'm only expected to be off my feet for 2 weeks this time, transition to a walking boot, and should be back to normal by the end of June at the latest. When I was told I'd be having surgery, I emailed HR to give a heads up on the situation and to prepare for any accommodations to be arranged.
HR said they'd speak to the program director, and to follow up with any updates. Today they called and said they didn't want to make accommodations seeing as it was a short term position, and would rather the position go to somebody who can fully perform the animal husbandry duties of the job. I explained the walking boot is temporary, 2 weeks maximum, and I would be able to walk, stand, lift, and complete most tasks needed.
I'm so sad that my injury has already taken the last few months from my life. What possible steps can I take to follow up to their decision? Should I ask for the department head's contact information, request their decision in writing, file an EEOC claim? Should I just let it go?
Any advice at all is appreciated.