Illustration 1: "Is this a Person with a Disability under the ADA?"

Mary is a 32-year old administrative assistant. Her essential job functions include preparing a budget, managing grant accounts, and processing requisitions. During the months of May and June, Mary made a lot of mistakes in her work that cost the department a substantial amount of money. When Mary's employer questioned her about these mistakes, she said she was experiencing difficulty due to disability. The employer introduced Mary to the ADA disclosure process, and she provided documentation from her physician regarding her impairment. Documentation indicated that Mary has a primary diagnosis of allergic rhinitis that is related to spring and summer grass pollination. During these seasons, Mary has the following mild symptoms: nasal congestion, a clear runny nose, sneezing, coughing, nose and eye itching, tearing eyes, and loss of smell and taste. These symptoms, as stated by the physician, could possibly interfere with Mary fulfilling her key job responsibilities when grass is pollinating. She has been successfully treated with non-sedating antihistamines in the past, and it is likely they will work for her again. When asked if there are any activities or situations that this employee should avoid, the physician stated, "Staying outside for prolonged periods in the spring and summer seasons without having taken medication."

Is Mary a person with a disability under the ADA?