In January, I’ll celebrate my 15th anniversary at Walmart store 879 in Lafayette, Tenn. My story of opportunity is similar to hundreds of thousands of others at this company. I started as a cashier and, after earning several promotions, now work as a zone merchandise supervisor over grocery. I know firsthand how Walmart rewards people who work hard. I also know how Walmart and my fellow associates treat and support soon-to-be mothers.
Today I lead a relatively normal life -- working at Walmart and providing for my two children. But in late 2003, my life was anything but normal. Shortly have receiving the wonderful news that I was pregnant with my first child, I was diagnosed with cancer.
It was a scary time and one I’m not sure I could have gotten through alone. Thankfully, I didn’t have to. Walmart was extremely supportive. They were very accommodating and allowed me to have a very flexible schedule. They gave me time off for treatments and time off after because of the sickness it caused. They were really good about it.
In May 2004, I took my three-month maternity leave and continued to go to chemo therapy until two months after my daughter was born. The associates in my store were my rock through it all. I don’t think I would have made it through everything without them – they’ve become my family.
I love working for this company. It was very good to me during both my pregnancies. It gave me the support I needed. My job also helps me provide for both my kids. Another story similar to hundreds of thousands of people who have worked for Walmart.