Should I be back at work?

Hi Maralyn

I decided to take a year off. I'm fortunate in that I'm self employed, so was able to make the decision fairly easily, It was kind of like 'take the year off, worry about the finances later'! On a practical note, if you have been 'signed off' by your doctor, your company's 'insurance' won't cover you to work (as far as I'm aware). So if you need an 'excuse' you can always throw that at them.

With regards to 'not being really ill', I feel the same. But I also don't feel really well either, just like you. Most of my illness is not physical, because learning how to deal with cancer and coming to terms with it all has been the biggest hinderance to me working. Ring the MacMillan helpline (on this site) who'll advise and help you. They have been fantastic. I'm sure you'll get some great advice from the guys here too.

((((((((((((((HUGE HUGS)))))))))))))))))))

Monna xxxx

Hi Maralyn,

The effects of radiotherapy go on for a little while after the end of treatment. (Imagine you've been put in the microwave - you carry on 'cooking'!) You will still feel tired and it is possible your skin may be tender. Don't rush things - take baby steps. Perhaps you could go back part-time to start?

Best wishes,

KateG

Hi Marilyn

If you take a look at my profile you'll see I'm trying a for a second time to return to work more than a year after surgery and radiotherapy. I'm not saying that's the case for everyone, but I have had to learn the hard way that pushing yourself back to work too quickly can be a mistake. The trouble is you don't really know if you can do it until you try. My experience is that lots of communication and openess with work has led to an understanding that allows for not only baby steps forwards, but backward steps too.

Hi Maralyn, don't rush back to work. I am sure it would be worse for your work and you if you go back too soon and then need to be off again.

Discuss it with your GP too, they may be able to give you a different perspective.

Hope you are well. Love and hugs, Debbie. xxx

Hi Maralyn

H&S says if you are signe doff by a Doctor he then has to "sign you back on" to be fit enough to go back to work, dont be pressurised to go back before you are ready.

My work have been fantastic and have suggested that I go back in a phased approach, maybe this is something you could discuss with your employers, once your sick note has run out? Mine are keen that I am fully fit and dont overdo things by going back too soon, listen to your body, and get as much advice as you can.

Sorry, lecture over, I get frustrated for people who are being pressurised, as if you haven't been through enough.

Think positive, big hugs

Fiona