Hello, I’ve been away from work since March after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I’ve had 7 cycles of chemotherapy followed by a whipples procedure in June and another 5 cycles of chemotherapy which finished last week? Realistically, when should I be looking to return to work? I’d be grateful to hear from anyone who has been in this position. I have a ct scan pencilled in for last week in November and a meeting with oncologist following week. Regards.
Hi Mellee07 and welcome to this little corner of the community.
This is ‘the’ question that unfortunately will have many answers…… but it is all about the treatment you have been through and how it affects you now and going forward.
For context I have been on my incurable cancer journey for over 25 years and actually worked through various treatments over the first 12 years in a demanding teaching job being able to arrange most of my treatments to fall in my none contact time and holidays…… I took early retirement and 2 years later my condition kicked off big time so I had 2 years aggressive treatment and if I had still be working in teaching I most likely could not have went back due to my immune system being severely and permanently compromised.
Let’s look for any group members with similar experience to get back to you but you may want to join and put up the same post in our dedicated Pancreatic cancer support group as you will connect with others who have walked the same treatment pathway.
The post treatment part of the journey….. I see this as the final third of the journey can have it’s own challenges…… so you may find it helpful to make a cuppa and have a look at this great paper…
After Treatment Finishes - Then What?
….. by Dr Peter Harvey as it highlights the post treatment milestones.
Always around to chat.
Thank you for your response, I appreciate the advice.
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
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