Unexpected serious illness

A cousin of mine was recently diagnosed with what we all found out was a traditional illness. This cost him the use of his hands ****il he recovers). The company he works for PFM (merchandisers) is refusing to grant him leave sobthatbhe can recover. They have been giving him the run around and expect him to work until leave is granted however he is unable to wear a shirt. The wounds are serious and all they can say is that they have to find a release first before leave can be granted however he has not been going to work. He is currently under treatment and it is estimated that he could be out for about 40 days. Can the company dismiss him for this?