Medical experts usually say the average person can live for 4 to 6 weeks without food. The amount of time someone can go without water is much shorter, roughly a week (or less).
Your employer can force you to take leave at a particular time as long as they give you at least two weeks' notice. However, it is common for employer and employee to come to an agreement about the timing of annual leave. If you put in a request for leave, your employer has to have a good reason to refuse it.
FMLA does not obligate employers to grant leave in excess of 12 weeks. 4. Request FMLA once you learn it will be needed. Although FMLA generally requires 30 days advance notice prior to taking leave, this rule is waived for unforeseen circumstances. When unexpected need arises, state this in your communication.