With your medical skills, you might see if you qualify for the military reserves. The Navy had a program called Advanced Pay Grade (APG) which allows you to enlist at a higher rate based on your work history, skills, etc. It would provide income and the opportunity to obtain job possibilities. And, if a person has a requirement of earning XX$ before becoming eligible for unemployment benefits, it would help lift that requirement. Best wishes.
This is awesome, Ann! Do you remember the name of the flight attendant? If you do, let me know so I can make sure that your great advice is seen!