I am currently facing the possibility of being laid off next week due to budget cuts at my company. I have a significant surgery scheduled for July, which I have informed my immediate supervisor about, but I worry that the VP may have forgotten given the current circumstances. I haven't submitted my short-term disability (STD) paperwork to HR yet, but I'm increasingly anxious about the potential costs of my surgery and whether my health coverage will remain intact. I'm contemplating whether it would be beneficial to submit my STD paperwork in writing this week, before the layoffs are officially announced. However, I'm concerned about the potential legal implications of doing so. As someone who is early in their career, I find it challenging to assert myself, but I recognize the need to improve in this area. Any advice from those who have been in similar situations would be greatly appreciated.