Returning To Work After Cancer Treatment

Returning to work after cancer treatment can be a step in your recovery that can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and support, you can transition back successfully.
When I was diagnosed with Inflammatory Breast Cancer in 2008. I was shocked to be plunged into treatment, chemotherapy, mastectomy, radiotherapy and reconstruction operations. I worked part time throughout my treatment, work had been such a huge part of my life, and it often felt good to go to the office and for a few hours think about something other than the cancer
At it’s best work can give us a sense of normality and stability, and I craved that while my life revolved around treatment and just doing my best to stay alive.
When my treatment was over I expected to return to full time work and restart my finance career. But it was not that easy, I struggled with my energy levels, brain fog, and lack of confidence. I worked hard on my recovery after treatment ended, but I felt alone, and made some mistakes in those early days.
I thought maybe there was something wrong with me, but then I learned that in a study by The Institute for Employment Studies (IES) 45% of cancer survivors experience anxiety when returning to work, 35% had a negative experience returning to work and that 27% people received no support to help them back to work after their diagnosis. So if you are struggling, you are not alone, sadly this is too common. This is why I do the work that I do now as a Cancer Recovery Coach.
Many people, including HR professionals, are unaware of the fact that if you are in England, Wales or Scotland, current legislation is there to protect you, The Disability and Equality Act 2010 is there from the moment of cancer diagnosis and for the rest of your life, it’s purpose is to ensure that you cannot be treated less favourably at work than anyone else. Some people feel guilty at asking for adjustments to be made, but please remember this is your legal right, and not special treatment. Your health is the most important thing.
So many of my coaching clients are asking me for guidance around returning to work, and that is why I created a Return To Work checklist that covers the most common issues that can arise.
This checklist is a good start to plan your successful and positive return to work, whatever that looks like for you.
Use this checklist to navigate the process with confidence. This period can be really challenging, especially for people who are used to feeling in control, and may be unused to asking for help.
Acknowledging that you may not have the energy to do the many tasks that a lot of us juggle can be a step forward to building new habits after treatment ends. As always, be kind – especially to yourself
You can download my checklist here
And if you want to ask about anything that is related to life after cancer treatment ends – please get in touch
Your friend
Gabby x
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