Would to God I were in your dilemma! Since the guy rear-ended me over 2 yrs ago, I am unable to work due to the injuries, the auto insurance co cut off all benefits--medical as well as wage reimbursement--after one year.   Why? Because they could, & legally, too! I was not allowed to collect unemployment because if you have ANY medical restrictions you do not qualify, it takes a "couple" of years to get disability approved from Social Security--the disability attorney told me in Feb it would be another year. (I will get a whopping $714 per month BEFORE the $54-the current amount-is deducted from my monthly check for Medicare) I still have not received a settlement from the auto ins company because they have more $$ & begger attorneys than I do, not to mention politicians in their pockets who allow the laws to make all this legal. I do not make enough giving a few music lessons & gigging now & then (which is technically naughty cause if you can make just one dime, then no matter how much pain you are in or what has happened to your body & mind, you obviously do not need to get disability payments cause you are able to work!)to pay all my bills--when I am able to gig, if the constant pain allows me to move, & yes, I mean literally! Not only do I have neck & back injuries, but carpal tunnel in both wrists which has wreaked havoc with this musician. Being single there is no one to support me. I have no idea how I will live from day to day, and no way to pay to go to a Dr. or get pain meds. That's the short version
    So Steve, if I miraculously somehow regained my health, I can tell you that I would choose to do what I love to do(music)--and not prostitute myself to some company which does not give a damn about me or my dreams, talents etc., or respect me as an individual. Now stop & think about what is REALLY important in life--& go out there & do it!