I get 2 "personal days" and 18 "vacation days" due to being at the company 9 years or so. My company is pretty flexible with time off "for reasons beyond your control". Just recently while Mr. Lixy was hospitalized I was able to use "vacation days" for the time I stayed with him, as long as I had a note from his doctor.

In 2001, from New Year's day till the 7th of January, I took off to stay with Mr. Lixy after his operation. He was so sick and nearly/could have died. My bosses were very understanding and let me use my vacation time, which I nearly used up. Later that summer I was able to take vacation time regardless that I used up most of it early in January.

I don't abuse their understanding and kindness...but they know if I "call in" I've got a good reason. When I am out it's a little chaotic and they scramble to rearrange who does what. In the end it all gets done...just a little differently and possibly a little slower.

__________________
Minds are like parachutes. They only work when they are open.

~Thomas Dewar~