Purple,
You have the right to have 12 weeks unpaid family medical leave. You have the right to return to a simular job. you have the right to be placed back after your illness.
The are some exceptions. one the company has to have more than 50 persons. second you must have worked at least 2000 hrs in one year. the company did not have any layoffs in your department(yes you can be laid off while onn FMLA) you have medical proof of the need.
if you meet all of the above you have a very good case for violation of the Family medical leave act of 1992 (clinton bill)
if this is work related and the reson you went on leave was because of the illness/inj you are protected under workers comp and I am not very familur with those laws.
I do know that if the company let you go because you would not be able to complete you duties you are eligable for workers comp permante disablity...
I sugest you see a atternoy asap to be able to provde spacfics. on the outside it sounds like you have a lagitamate case.
keep me updated and if it is FMLA related I can PM you with much information
Jo