NY At-Will, is this wrongful termination or retaliation?
**Employment Timeline – Hospitalization and Termination**
**Employee:** Ben Ford
**Employer:** Flooring Company (approximately 7 employees)
**June 12, 2026**
Met with my supervisor regarding my performance.
During a 33-minute discussion, I was told my overall performance was a **“B/B+”** and my **problem-solving skills were an “A+”**.
No indication was given that my employment was in immediate jeopardy.
**Following June 12**
My supervisor learned I had interviewed for another position.
He told me he **might not bring me back** and compared interviewing elsewhere to **“cheating on your wife.”**
**June 17, 2026**
I experienced a serious medical emergency and was admitted to the hospital.
I immediately notified both company owners by text that I was being hospitalized.
I was later diagnosed with **stress-induced cardiomyopathy (Takotsubo cardiomyopathy)**. Testing showed no blocked arteries and physicians indicated the condition was stress-related.
**During Hospitalization**
My physician ordered me to remain out of work until **June 29, 2026**.
I informed my employer by text that I would be out until June 29 pursuant to my doctor’s orders.
**While on Medical Leave**
My paycheck was unexpectedly reduced by approximately **50%**.
I was never notified in advance of any pay reduction.
I am a salaried employee.
At the time, I also had accrued PTO available that had not been used.
**June 27, 2026**
Before my doctor-authorized return date, I discovered I had been terminated after my paycheck was direct deposited.
I was informed my termination was for **“poor performance.”**
**Additional Workplace Concerns**
My supervisor told me I had **“a touch of the tism.”**
He told me I needed to **seek therapy because I couldn’t handle stress.**
He frequently stated that he **didn’t need the company**, that he was **wealthy**, and that he was **well connected with political figures**.
I was not adequately trained for my position.
I regularly had to postpone customer installations because the company lacked funds to release customer materials.
Customers often directed anger toward me because of these delays
The owner allegedly attacked customers who left negative online reviews.
Both owners voiced concerns that they didn’t think the job was for me because of my health
**Potential Evidence**
Text messages notifying ownership of hospitalization and medical leave.
Doctor’s work restrictions through June 29, 2026.
Hospital records documenting stress-induced cardiomyopathy.
Pay stubs showing the reduction in wages.
Direct deposit records.
Text messages and other communications regarding performance, leave, and termination.