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In a heartbreaking turn of events, Terri Estepp, a dedicated employee of Huntington Bank for over 30 years, claims she was terminated while on Family Medical Leave to care for her terminally ill daughter, Samantha. Estepp’s story has ignited discussions about the protections offered under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the responsibilities of employers during such critical times.
The struggle of a devoted mother
Estepp’s ordeal began when her daughter was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in April 2023. As Samantha’s condition deteriorated, Estepp exhausted her vacation days and paid time off, ultimately resorting to FMLA leave to be by her daughter’s side during treatment.
The FMLA is designed to provide job-protected, unpaid leave for medical and family reasons, ensuring that employees can care for loved ones without the fear of losing their jobs.
Upon returning to work, Estepp requested additional time off to continue supporting her daughter.
Shockingly, she was informed that she was being let go on the same day she made her request. “I was in complete shock. I was not ready for anything like this,” Estepp recounted, emphasizing the emotional toll this decision took on her and her family.
The impact of workplace policies
The aftermath of Estepp’s firing was devastating, not only for her but also for her daughter, who felt responsible for her mother’s job loss. Estepp shared, “It really hurt her. She started to cry on the phone.
She said, ‘Mom, you lost your job because of me.’” This emotional burden added to the already overwhelming stress of caring for a dying loved one.
Tragically, Samantha passed away in 2024, just ten days after Estepp was let go.
Estepp claims she was never provided with a clear reason for her termination, prompting her attorney, Sarah Prescott, to file a lawsuit against Huntington Bank. Prescott argues that Estepp’s firing was directly related to her use of FMLA leave, a violation of federal law that protects employees in such situations.
Corporate responsibility and employee rights
In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for Huntington Bank expressed condolences for Estepp’s loss but maintained that the bank acted appropriately and that her departure was unrelated to her FMLA leave. This statement raises critical questions about corporate responsibility and the treatment of employees during personal crises.
Estepp’s case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges many face when balancing work obligations with family responsibilities, especially in times of medical emergencies. As more individuals share their experiences, it becomes increasingly clear that there is a pressing need for companies to uphold the rights of their employees and ensure that policies are in place to protect them during such vulnerable times.
As Estepp fights for justice, her story resonates with many who have faced similar struggles, highlighting the importance of advocating for fair treatment in the workplace. The hope is that her experience will lead to greater awareness and change, ensuring that no one else has to endure such a painful situation while trying to care for their loved ones.
