The lack of a name on that earlier estimate did not have to become another decision someone else made for her.

PART 6 — The Cost of a Different Week

The mother lost hours at work while attending meetings and staying available for Mia’s care.

Her supervisor could approve unpaid leave for the first week, with another discussion afterward.

It was not a dismissal, and it was not paid time simply because the reason for absence was urgent.

“At least three shifts,” she told the worker when the schedule was checked against appointments.

She had built her workweek around Derek’s help.