We, the undersigned, are deeply concerned about the recent termination of Rose Marcello, a nurse who has worked for nearly 30 years at Rochester General Hospital, after being placed on a medical disability leave due to a serious cancer diagnosis. We are calling for the immediate reinstatement of Rose Marcello to her position at Rochester General Hospital and a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding her dismissal.

Why This Matters:
For nearly three decades, Rose Marcello has been a tireless and compassionate healthcare provider who has made an indelible mark on both her colleagues and patients. Her commitment to her patients, her exemplary work ethic, and her dedication to the hospital community are just a few of the many reasons why she is beloved by all who know her.

In June 2024, Marcello was diagnosed with esophageal/throat cancer and took a medically necessary leave of absence to receive treatment, following all protocols required under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and hospital guidelines. After six months of fighting this debilitating illness, which included throat and facial surgery, and seven weeks of daily intense chemotherapy and radiation, Marcello was informed that her position had been terminated, despite her longstanding dedication to the hospital. Now, Marcello faces the devastating news that she's still not cancer-free, and must undergo surgery to remove her esophagus without any medical benefits that she received from her employer.

This decision, we believe, is not just unjust—it is deeply troubling on many levels. It sends a message that an employee’s health challenges can be used as grounds for dismissal, regardless of the years of hard work, loyalty, and dedication they have shown.

We Urge Rochester General Hospital to Take the Following Actions:
1.     Reinstate Rose Marcello to her position immediately, honoring her nearly 30 years of service and dedication to the hospital community.

2.     Offer Support and Understanding to employees undergoing serious medical challenges, ensuring that those who have dedicated their careers to caring for others are treated with the same compassion and respect during their times of need.

3.     Implement More Compassionate Policies for employees who are dealing with medical hardships, including ensuring job security during disability leaves, especially for those with long tenures.

4.     Ensure Fair and Transparent Communication with employees regarding their rights during medical leaves and ensure that all options for accommodation and job protection are clearly outlined.

Why You Should Sign:
·       Injustice: No one should fear losing their livelihood due to an illness that is out of their control.

·       Support: Rose Marcello has dedicated her life to the service of others—now it’s time to stand by her in her time of need.

·       Community: Rose Marcello has touched the lives of countless individuals over the years. As a community, we should rally behind her in this difficult moment and show that compassion matters.

·       Fairness: Employees, especially those with decades of service, should not be penalized for taking a medically necessary leave. We want to ensure that the rights of workers, particularly those in the healthcare sector, are protected.

 Take Action Today:
By signing this petition, you are urging Rochester General Hospital to reinstate Rose Marcello and ensure that no employee in the future is penalized for having to take a medical leave of absence for serious health issues. We believe that a hospital that stands for care should also stand by its employees, particularly those who have dedicated their careers to providing care to others.

Please join us in calling for fairness, compassion, and justice for Rose Marcello. Thank you for showing that kindness and integrity should always prevail in the workplace.

Sign now to show your support!

Rose needs to take this time to rest and heal. We kindly ask for your understanding as she is given space and privacy during this period. We appreciate your support!