Realistic timescales for return to work

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Hi I finished my treatment in mid January (30 RT sessions and 3 chemo) for base of tongue and lymph nodes. I am currently on sick leave but getting subtle pressure from work about when I might be well enough to go back. Lots of messages asking how I am getting on etc. probably well meaning but it stresses me out. I have high pressure job, front facing with lots of complaints and a big staff team to manage so have to be in tip top form mentally and physically. I am 4 weeks post treatment now and I feel a very long way off being ready for returning. Still on opioid painkillers, mainly peg feeding and sleep a lot in the day and can’t drive yet and can only speak for limited periods of time. I am 53, menopausal and struggle with work related stress.  I am starting some counselling with McMillan this week. Welcome any thoughts on returning to work timescales. Thanks.

  • Thank you and really useful advice. To be fair they have really backed off now since I sent an email explaining the situation in more detail. 

  • Hi Peppermint Thats great news and the way it should be. Contact them when you feel better and are 100% recovered . That woman I mentioned was on the high dose of some medication possible  for stress which does not happen overnight. Obviously she needs to come off this medication first before she is normal again which could take a long time before she even considers going back to work . All the Best Regards Minmax