The World Through My Eyes

This is disturbing! Wal-Mart has decided to take a severely brain-damaged woman's 417,000 settlement. Debbie Shank who was in a sever traffic accident was awarded 1 million dollars in a lawsuit against the trucking company involved in the crash. Shank who was working at Wal-Mart stocking shelves didn't know that when she signed up for her health plan that in fine print Wal-Mart retained the right to recoup medical expenses if an employee collected damages in a lawsuit. Wal-mart who has already paid out about 470,000 sued Shank for the same amount but was told by the court that they could only recoup what was left in the family trust. The Shanks lost their suit to Wal-Mart. Last summer, the couple appealed the ruling -- but also lost it. Jim Shank stated "They are quite within their rights. But I just wonder if they need it that bad," especially since Wal-mart reported 90 Billion in net sales for 2007's third quarter. Wal-Mart spokesman John Simley, who called Debbie Shank's case "unbelievably sad," replied in a statement: "Wal-Mart's plan is bound by very specific rules. ... We wish it could be more flexible in Mrs. Shank's case since her circumstances are clearly extraordinary, but this is done out of fairness to all associates who contribute to, and benefit from, the plan." [Source]

I don't even know what to say, its not like they need the money. In all fairness I can understand that they are just following rules, but this lady needs the money to help keep her in her rest home. It's not like she is trying to abuse the system. I think that they should let the family keep the money, but I wouldn't hold my breath. I guess I won't be shopping at Wal-mart any time soon.