LOS ANGELES, Nov. 14, 2016 — Carney Shegerian, founder of Los Angeles-based employment discrimination firm Shegerian & Associates recently discussed the disability discrimination allegations against Sacred Heart University, an institution of higher education located in Fairfield, Connecticut. Gary Reho, a former employee, alleges he informed his employer he had been diagnosed with the onset of dementia and was fired as a result.

“As long as a disabled employee is still able to perform the duties of his job, he is protected from termination under the Americans With Disabilities Act,” Shegerian states. “In this case, Reho’s neuropsychologist not only concluded he was fit to continue working, but said he would greatly benefit from being able to do so.”

“Instead of heeding the advice from the neuropsychologist that evaluated Reho’s condition, Sacred Heart University gave him the choice of taking short-term disability or losing his job,” Shegerian says. “At a time where he should have been accommodated by his employer, he was wrongfully pushed out the door, ending a 26-year relationship between Reho and Sacred Heart University.”

“Employers often fail to treat employees with mental disabilities the same as they would an employee with a physical disability,” Shegerian warns. “But, hopefully this lawsuit serves as a reminder to employers that all disabilities are covered under the ADA—not just those that are visually obvious.”

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