Migraine

I'm new to posting, so I think I did this the wrong way the 1st time. Sorry! Is it legal for a public university to dismiss someone for missing school for going to a migraine specialist, getting sick due to migraines, & getting tests run for migraines. All instructors were notified of my condition before I started school & they were informed when I had to take time off for Dr. visit or tests. If it is illegal, where do I get help for this? Thank you!

Ella,
I would try and first find out what your schools policies are for attendance. I know at my childrens public high schools even with excused absences there are attendence levels that must be met. Those policies might be posted on line.

Others with more experience in this area have special arrangements in place with schools, even at the college level to accomadate "special needs" as migraines do fall under. You will probably need to explore what that is so you can return to school and not fail. Can you talk with counseling at school to get specifics of what you would need to do so you can resume your course work?

I'm sorry I don't have more specific information for you.

Cindy

I think that public universities are covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, which requires "reasonable accommodation" for persons with a disability. Migraine has been found to be a disability in some cases.

I'd start with the person who notified you of your dismissal. Do you have a faculty adviser? If not, the dean of students might be a good place to start.

Gretchen in Mississippi

Hi, Ella, and welcome to the forum!

You should have some kind of office on campus with some kind of student services department to help you navigate this. Your advisor is a good first place to start, unless you advisor is the one pushing for your dismissal. Perhaps there is a Student Affairs office? Or an overall departmental advisory office?

I'm with Gretchen in thinking that the Americans with Disabilities Act provisions are to public university settings.

Hi Ella,

Welcome to MyMigraineConnection.

I found some information for you I hope you find helpful:

Higer Ed Advocay links

Let us know what you think, and how we can help you further, ok

(PS I did delete your other post, since we addressed the issue here.)

Try the ombudsman at your university. All government institutions must adhere to the Americans with Disability Act. Also, check with their disabled student services department. They know all the rules for people with disabilities. If worse comes to worse, call a lawyer. The first consultation is usually free.

Hi Ella

You definitely are covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act if your University receives federal funding.

There is an advocate available. Her website is www.advocacyforpatients.org She has been very helpful to me with the problems I am having at my son's school. It's free.

Good Luck
Jean Ann