Angie Larsen Blog - Big Brother is watching

Now here's a talker.  Perhaps you've heard of the Quebec woman on long-term sick leave who is fighting to have her benefits reinstated after her employer's insurance company cut them.  The reason?  Because of photos the woman posted on her Facebook page.

The woman was diagnosed with major depression and for the last 18 months has been receiving disability benefits.  That is until the company's insurance carrier saw pictures of the woman having fun on a beach holiday during her sick leave.  The insurance carrier claims the pictures are proof that the woman is no longer depressed.  The woman's lawyer argues that her doctor prescribed the vacation and that judging someone's mental status using Facebook is not a reliable tool. 

This brings up an incredible debate.  On the one hand, it's reminiscent of fraudulent Worker's Comp claims.  You've heard countless stories of the guy who claims he can't work because of a back injury, yet he's photographed doing the Limbo in Cabo.  Or the employee who calls in sick and then is seen on ESPN at a Baseball game. The same argument could be applied here.  This woman took photos in which she appears to be happy, even though she is out on sick leave for depression.  But "appears" could be the operative word.  There are many times I've been sad and heartbroken.  I have forced myself to go out and have some fun.  I take pictures and post them on Facebook to remind myself that there are good times to be had.  But it doesn't change the fact that when I took some of those pictures, it was a facade... a smile and a laugh to mask what was going on in my heart.  

If this woman is being deceptive, then she should absolutely have her benefits yanked.  But if she is doing her best to overcome a serious illness, then perhaps she could use a little help and compassion.  And that includes none of us jumping to conclusions and deciding her guilt or innocence before it is proved.  

And on a final note, it's another great lesson that Big Brother is always watching.  When you put yourself out there for the world to see... the world is going to see you... and that includes your insurance provider.