Returning to work

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So I am phase return,I feel so overwhelmed by everything not a good feeling.

I look at my peers and think yiu really don't care how I feel I'm just a tick box.

I try and be honest about what work I can do how I feel.all I get is well if Yr not ready after 4 weeks you can take annual leave.

So yes I feel I'm nothing at the moment having gn through bowel cancer then chemo do my peers really understand what's behind my smile

Artsie over 2 years ago

hi Flower

Im so sorry that you are not having any support.

I am retired so I can’t help with advice however when my son was in a spinal unit I took three months off with pay.
I am shocked at your colleagues response.
Depending on what treatment you have had are you okay to drive?
Maybe see your GP, you can get signed off

Im sending you a hug. I hope others come along with better advice

Ann
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CrumpetsOrToast over 2 years ago

Hi Flower123.

Thank you for sharing your return to work, it is one I hope to reach sometime. Well done for getting there!

Your experience does not sound great and extra tough after the emotional turmoil of surgery, chemo and scans.

I wonder if, in a quiet moment at home, you could jot a few words down about your last year and any worries you have returning to work. Sometimes looking down at our reality can help us see some ways forward. Other times it can help us articulate to others our changed state and new needs.

The adjustment from never ending hospital demands back to the workplace is significant. Be kind to yourself and try and break things down into achievable chunks.

Mel M over 2 years ago

My heart goes out to you. My colleagues have been super supportive but in reality unless you have been on this cancer journey, you have no real clue as to what people have gone through and continue to go through. As you have a phased return, can you not ask for an Occupational Health referral? I know not all employers have this facility but Occ Health are normally excellent at advising managers what staff can/cannot do. I think we all develop a smiling mask and this is solely to make those around us feel more comfortable and remove any opportunity for them to ask questions or comment. We are al your collleagues on this forum and those peers who you work with will hopefully never have to walk the journey that you are on, chin up my lovely, we are all here for you xx

Flower123 over 2 years ago in reply to Mel M

Arrr thanks Mel M I've seen occ health I suppose being very emotional and also realising I'm alive and in remission... so I just want cry laugh dance and just say we r here but just bear with me please

CrumpetsOrToast over 2 years ago in reply to Flower123

Hi Flowers123 - all that sounds very reasonable... though maybe dancing in office may have a few H+S issues