Hello , this is my first time here , thank you to anyone who might have some advice or guidance for me
I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and tomorrow I find out my treatment plan. It’s likely to be surgery , radiotherapy and chemo as it’s quite an aggressive one but not yet sure about the sequence until tomorrow.
I have a pretty big and stressful job but very lucky as i receive full pay for the first 6 months and then half pay for further 6 months. My friends / family are all urging me to take the whole 6 months off - basically spend the next few weeks getting my things in order handing over projects etc and then sign off for 6 months. we also have two young children with additional needs and so they feel I should try and limit my stress as much as possible right from the start. I just feel that I should try and continue longer and not make such a drastic decision from The get go. I’m wondering what other people have done in similar situations? Most stories I’ve come across are about people trying hard to continue , getting reasonable adjustments , going part time not many instances with people just requesting leave from the beginning. I guess im also feeling guilty about making this decision and letting people down. Silly maybe given that it’s my health and my family that are going to be impacted too! Any advice or experiences you may be able to share I’d be very grateful for - thank you, Catherine
Hello Catherine (LadyCath )
A warm welcome to the online Community, although I am so sorry to find you joining us. I am Brian one of the Community Champions here at Macmillan.
The Community is divided up into cancer specific groups, so as well as posting here I would advise you to join our very active breast cancer group where you will "meet" others in the same or similar circumstances - here's the link you need:
Once you click on the link I have provided and the page opens up - click on "join" on the black banner at the bottom of the page. Once you have joined the group, you can introduce yourself in the "New Here - Say Hello" section. You can copy and paste or repost the post above there.
If you need any further help in navigating the Community, please do get back to me.
Best wishes - Brian.
Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
Strength, Courage, Faith, Hope, Defiance, VICTORY.
I am a Macmillan volunteer.
