I worked for Giant Eagle for 11 years, the last few as a manager. One day I had a terrible doctor's appointment just before work and was crying on the way. I should have called in late or called off, but I went in anyway. I worked for a few minutes and being that my department is right next to the cafeteria I went to the cafeteria to calm down for a moment but did not clock out. Next thing I knew I was suspended for "stealing time". I had no idea if I would get my job back or how long it would be. I did not get a warning of any type and even heard the human resource manager say "That was easy." and " If that doesn't work I have her for making change out of her drawer." (I put a dollar in and took out 4 quarters) I even heard the manager shush her. I was given a union rep that did not know me and I did not know. First thing he asks is would your manager back you up? When I said I doubt it I never heard from him. Upon arriving to the grievance my manager was there talking with the judge. No matter that I brought the department to #1 out of 30 something stores for 3 holidays, or came in on my days off to fix major problems. I was hushed immediately and told "It isn't about your work ethic, it is about the 15 minutes." I watched my job slip away as my union rep said "They think you are lying and they think you are telling them what they want to hear." I was made out to be the worst person ever and that I knew just what I was doing and my poor manager just didn't have a choice. I used to stand up for the union. It is unreal how fast they can turn on you if they want you out!!!