Breast cancer blues following operation and radiotheraphy

• Do you have a occupational health dept? They usually offer a staged return. Some people are very focused on targets than helping and showing kindness. 
• I am not working now but it's what was offered to me years ago. Maybe someone who has been through it recently will be along soon. Hope you get what you need, it is in their interest to support staff and times like this. Xx

Hi PearlyD

Welcome to the forum and sorry to hear that you were diagnosed with breast cancer. While I can’t assist with examples of reasonable adjustments I can tell you that because you had cancer you are considered to be disabled therefore you are covered under disability legislation so your job are not entitled to put you under pressure to return to work.  If you ring the Macmillan support line on 0808 808 00 00 they’ll be able to advise you on what can do about work. I’d also suggest that you talk to your Human Resources Department and you union rep if you have one.

Wishing you the best of luck with your meeting with your breastcare nurse.

Best wishes

Daisy53

Hi I think re what Sabrina22 saying that your gp can recommend a staged return - good luck

Hi, I had surgery November and December followed by two weeks radiotherapy mid February.  I was doing well up until the radiotherapy.  I am exhausted!  Under My right arm and my breast are still sore.  I am curtailed in what I do.  I have been off eight months and still do not feel up to returning.  You are covered by legislation so don’t feel threatened to go back.  Adjustments have to be made.  Saying that my “Welfare” department are referring me for medical retirement!!  Welfare script is How are you?, have you finished your treatment?  What are your thoughts re returning to work?    I honestly think unless you e had breast cancer people don’t understand! 

PearlyD, I agree with everything that has been suggested to you by the lovely ladies.Sorry to hear that your employer has put you under a lot of pressure. That’s the last thing you need whilst going through your treatment or recovery. I had surgery in October and radiotherapy in December. I returned to work in mid January on a phased return. My GP was very helpful and gave me each time a fit note in which she advised my employer to reduce my hours of work whilst I was still recovering from treatment. This helped me tremendously as I was so exhausted and had ( still have) many other side effects. I was also seen by an occupational health (OH) through work and my employer has followed through both recommendations from GP and OH to reduce my hours. If your work place has no OH, your GP will be likely to help. I wish you all the best in your recovery journey

Hi, sorry to hear the post treatment side effects are still bothering you so much, I am sure that's very frustrating,   In terms of your specific question on reasonable adjustments. I'd say firstly it depends on how physical your job is and whether you need “light duties” if your work involves lifting, standing etc. so this might be a request to find some alternative office based work or some equipment to help you.  Some other more general adjustments could be reduced hours, maybe starting later and finishing earlier so you have shorter days to combat the fatigue or working alternative days.

if it's difficult to speak to your manager, ask to speak to HR. As others have said, many organisations have an occupational health dept to advise on adjustments and return to work.  Does your company have an EAP (employee assistance program)?  If so, might be worth a call just to give you Sonne to talk things through with.  And as also mentioned, do call Macmillan on 0800 808 0000 as the lovely folks there have some great advice and support.

best wishes . 

Sorry to hear of your situation. That's the ast thing you need!!! I am currently undergoing chemotherapy with two more cycles to go then I'll have surgery and radiotherapy.  I am blessed with an amazing boss. I am a locum social worker so I don't get paid when I don't work so I have continued to work and only take offs when I get chemotherapy. I now work 100% from home. Even with limited rights as a contractor,  I am supported.  I am sure your support is more clearer and don't let your boss push you out..

Good luck dear.

Hi so sorry you feel pressured about work you're doing well I finished radiotherapy in January and I'm still having pains, aches, hot flushes. Please contact your oncologist through the Macmillan nurse and explain this awful situation, also your GP for support, HR, your Union and OPH you need rest support and keep in touch. Wishing you all the best x