I had a lumpectomy at the end of November and went back to high school teaching in January. I managed my normal 4 days a week ok until the 4th week when I was also working really hard, setting the cover work for the upcoming replacementnteacher. I got overwhelmed and weepy, feeling unable to sustain the level of intensity that the job requires.
I had 5 days radiotherapy immediately afterwards and have now had 3 weeks off to recover. My problem is that I'm really anxious about returning in case I get that overwhelm again. I'm still experiencing pain in my breast and some fatigue, but my main concern is the anxiety and emotion when I think about work. I've been teaching for 37 years and I usually absolutely love it, is it reasonable to have some more time off? I have a medical note for this week coming up but was thinking of going in for 2 mornings to see how I cope. Infeelmdonhuilty that my colleagues are having to work extra hard to support the cover teacher and provide consistency for my classes.
please don’t force yourself back if you don’t feel ready!! You’ve been through a lot -of course you’re feeling anxious about going back into a high-intensity job. It doesn’t mean you can’t do it, it just means your body and brain are still recovering
37 years of teaching is hugue a few extra weeks to look after yourself won’t undo that. And I’m sure your colleagues would rather you come back properly ready than drag yourself in feeling overwhelmed again!!
Dont feel guilty though it isn’t your fault! you didn’t choose this.
If it was me, I wouldn’t rush back. go back whenyou feel steady enough. You’ve been through enough already 
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