Life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them. In September, my world was turned upside down when my mother was unexpectedly hospitalized and diagnosed with terminal cancer. Within three weeks, she was gone. The grief was overwhelming, and the weight of responsibilities felt unbearable. Funeral arrangements, supporting my grieving father, and navigating a mountain of logistical challenges consumed me. My job at Oxalis, a place I truly love, became a distant thought amidst the chaos.
I was stressed to my absolute limits, barely keeping my head above water. Then, my boss, Jon Malanche, called. His words were a lifeline: “Melissa, you have absolutely nothing to worry about here.” He assured me that Oxalis had my back, that policies and procedures took a backseat to my well-being. “The only thing you need to focus on right now is your family,” he said, urging me to take all the time I needed.
“Melissa, you have absolutely nothing to worry about here. The only thing you need to focus on right now is your family.”
In a world where work often feels transactional, Jon’s empathy and support were a beacon of light. His words gave me the space to grieve, to heal, and to be present for my family.
After a few weeks, I felt ready to return to work, but my responsibilities at home were still significant. Once again, Jon’s response was unwavering: “Take all the time you need. We will make it work.” His flexibility and understanding allowed me to navigate a difficult transition without the added pressure of work deadlines.
Oxalis is more than just a workplace; it’s a community of brilliant, driven individuals who are passionate about solving complex problems. It’s a place where individuality is celebrated, and teamwork is paramount. But what truly sets Oxalis apart is its commitment to its employees. The company’s values — leadership, empathy, growth, quality, and curiosity — are not just empty words; they are woven into the fabric of the organization.
My experience has shown me that finding a workplace where you feel valued, supported, and cared for is an invaluable gift. Oxalis has been that and more for me. It’s a place where I can bring my whole self to work, knowing that I am surrounded by colleagues who genuinely care about my well-being.
In an increasingly cynical world, it’s easy to believe that a job is just a paycheck. But I’m here to tell you that it can be so much more. Finding a workplace like Oxalis, a place that embodies empathy, support, and genuine care for its employees, is a rare and precious find. I am eternally grateful for the support and understanding I received during a time of immense personal loss. Oxalis is not just a company; it’s a community, a lifeline, and a testament to the power of human connection in the workplace.
