Cancer and returning to work
I had a nephrectomy May 2019 for a large tumor. It was Renal Cell Carcinoma. I was on medical leave from my job and as it happened I was hired at the same job but in a different department. Once at my new job, I learned how ill equipped I was being a new hire after cancer. My life had been turned upside down. I was meeting my new oncologist, having scans and tests and trying to learn a new job. My new hours didn’t agree with my new life after cancer because nothing was as it once was. My boss told me I wasn’t performing as expected. No, I was not. I had so much on my plate! My former self without cancer would have been fine learning new tasks but the new me after cancer was a different person. So here I am confronting a new reality. You have a cancer diagnosis and let’s face it the company cares but not that much. You still have to do your job and do it well even when you feel sick or have another scan coming up or have a suspicious test result or other unaccounted for lump or mass or symptom that worries you. You are running scared for your life, you need your job because you need your health insurance. People may wonder why you may be a bit slow to learn. I want to scream, “I am not stupid I am a person after cancer trying to learn a new job”! Wish me luck I will be asking my boss if she can give me more time to be the employee she expects and deserves to have. Also wish me luck as the new me after cancer learns to navigate through the many obstacles that lay before me, those I can see and those I have yet to come to know. Cancer sucks.
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@azkidney57 You’ve come such a long way since you started this discussion! You were so smart to take charge and do things the way that helps you. Life may be different now, but maybe more meaningful. It’s interesting (or not) how people don’t care or forget about someone’s bad diagnosis. They either change the subject or keep talking about something else. Not helpful. You said that you work in a hospital. Is it at all possible that you could be an occasional visitor/volunteer in the cancer center as a supportive person? Course, it may be too soon. Be sure to let me know how you’re doing! I care. Becky
None. Reconstructive surgery
@cinder
Glad to hear that your recovery has come along so well and that you had a lot of support. What is your next step? Will there be any follow up such as chemo or radiation?
I am doing great. I have watched a lot of tv and documentaries! I had surgery 3 weeks ago. I have a lot of support.
@azkidney57 just hoping that everything is still going OK. It sure does take awhile to adjust life to a ‘new normal,’ doesn’t it. Mental and emotional adjustment take forever! I’m still dealing with all the changes in my life. But you’re doing ok? Becky
Thank you asking about me. I did speak with my boss and told you about my health issues, lack of sleep etc. I was under a great deal of stress. She listened to me and I am still there working. I am sleeping better so my work performance has improved. I can focus on my job. The cancer diagnosis was a big shock for me but I am learning to deal with it. I am grateful for everyone who gave me advise it helped!
@azkidney57 Your last post was so positive! I’m so glad you were able to talk with your boss. So is all still going well at work?
Thank you for asking about me regarding my job. I spoke to my boss and just explained why my job performance was not up to par. The last 2 weeks in June and all of July not only did I start a new job but I had 4 doctor consultations, 2 CT scans, a nuclear med exam, cardiac work up, numerous blood draws and 2 biopsies. I went to 2 funerals, 2 friends died from cancer, breast and ovarian. I was still recovering from my nephrectomy. I was having trouble eating and sleeping. My sole kidney was adjusting to doing double duty. I felt tired all the time. My boss listened and she will keep me on. She is a better boss that others I have had. So, I still have a job. I actually feel better. I am sleeping better eating better and the shock of having a cancer diagnosis is less traumatic. I am taking each day at a time. That is all a can do. I feel less panicked about the cancer because right now I am cancer free. In October I will have more scans and blood work. I am NOT taking the Sutent as my oncologist wanted. I will do what I feel is best for me and I will be getting a third opinion. I have learned that being in control helps me emotionally. I function better when I feel more informed and I am directing my care. I want to be driving the bus in regard to my health care.
@azkidney57 Hello, how has your week gone thus far? I’m wondering if you’ve met with the HR people to discuss your orientation and new diagnosis. If you were always a good employee, I would hope they’d make allowances. Who is there at work that you could have a good discussion with?
Thank you............I needed something uplifting tonight and your post did it! So pleased to hear you're healthy and doing well.
Hugs