Ok, I am in HR and handle all leaves for my company so I can hopefully answer this question. First, do you need to take FMLA because you aren't doing well? If not, then save your FMLA for when you need it.

If you need it to cover your for doctor appointments, tests etc., then you can take intermittent FMLA. This allows you to take FMLA in hours, not in day chunks. So, if you have a dr. appt. you can take 2 hours of FMLA and then come to work. While you are on FMLA leave, you cannot lose your benefits, and you cannot be terminated.

Let me know if you have more questions.

You have time. Have your doctors fill out the paperwork a few weeks before you plan on using it. On 7/25/14 I fell on my way into work and broke/ fractured. my arm. Originally I had FMLA to cover me for any time out / time off for MS attacks or Neurology appointments. Keep track of the FMLA time you use. It runs out quick. When I broke my arm I had to use some FMLA time and didn't realize that I had already used quite a bit of for MS appointments and days out for MS attacks. When my FMLA ran out my employer let me go. I haven't worked since then. Be careful, employers aren't very understanding.

I wasn't eligible for it company let me go so I finally got on disability a lifesaver lol hope everything goes well for you.

Intermittent FMLA is probably most useful for everyone who works and has MS and is worried about job security. Regular FMLA is useful if you are having a flare and are unable to work for a longer period of time. The two can be used together as well.

Remember to ask for accommodations if you need them. I have two currently - one is travel no greater than once a month, and the second is that I occasionally be allowed to work from home if I am fatigued. So, if there are accommodations that could help you to remain at work, by law your employer must comply.

I'm on intermittent FMLA. But I don't use it all the time. I getting ready to reapply for this year. My HR rep is great told me that if I felt like I needed anything to work let her know and that if anybody said anything negative that she would personally call the disability association for me!