American Airlines furlough worries Chicago flight attendant who contracted coronavirus with existing heart condition

ByABC 7 Chicago Digital Team WLS logo
Saturday, October 24, 2020
American Airlines furlough worries Chicago flight attendant who contracted coronavirus with existing heart condition
A Chicago flight attendant who was furloughed from her American Airlines job is concerned after contracting COVID-19 and dealing with an existing heart condition.

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A furloughed American Airlines flight attendant from Chicago has learned she's tested positive for COVID-19.

It's a double blow for Erica Carmine, who no longer has health insurance, and already suffers from a heart disorder.

RELATED: Furloughed United, American Airlines workers anxiously await CARES Act extension

Carmine said she initially took a leave from her job, in an effort to stay safe from the virus.

"I ended up giving up my apartment because I took that leave; I could no longer afford my home," Carmine said. "I had to move out of state. I ended up ... losing my job, and now only five days after losing my healthcare benefits I have a positive COVID test."

RELATED: American Airlines flight attendant delivers heartfelt message to crew, passengers after furlough announcement

An American Airlines flight attendant delivers an emotional message to passengers and crew after the company announced 19,000 furloughs.

American Airlines furloughed more than 8,000 flight attendants last month as a result of financial strain during the pandemic.