Cancer Care - Returning to Work

According to the American Cancer Society, a majority of workers who receive a diagnosis of cancer do return to their jobs during and after treatment.

Clinical Social workers, nurse practitioners and physicians specialists in oncology have stated that the vast majority of people prefer to work for the psychological as well as financial benefits for maintaining wellness.  Dr. Amy Tiersten, Associate Professor of Medicine, NYU, stated that working is a personal decision and each person responds differently to cancer care, treatment and recovery.  Many people who return to work during and after treatment report greater motivation.

Returning to work is a transitional process and at times difficult for both the patient and people in the workplace to negotiate the new set of challenges.  Dr. Michael Zevon, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY recommends a gradual, "stage" approach to returning to the workplace.  The recommendation is working 2 or 3 days the first week of your return and then ramping up to full time based on your energy level and your physician's recommendations.

The cancer type, location and treatment vary from case to case.  Again and again, oncology specialist emphasize communication is the key to helping all parties adjust.  Communication can help the patient, coworkers, human resource representative and your boss know how to make the best of the situation.

Make sure your human resources department is informed of your plans for return to work.  It is necessary to know if and when your insurance coverage may be effected by the decision you and your medical team have made for a safe return to work.  Yes, safety is an issue.  If you push yourself too hard or fail to communicate your needs to your fellow workers and supervisors, you may risk a delay further down the road.  Remember, to give yourself a chance to heal.

Denora returned to work after a complex surgery that involved internal organs.  After returning, the symptoms increased with pain and swelling at the surgical area.  Sometimes we do not want the world to have pity or see the pain we are experiencing, and we smile - behave professionally at all times.  Because Denora appeared well, presented to the world with an upbeat attitude, when her supervisor received her physician's letter describing the need for scheduling accommodations (special accommodations may be available via the Americans Disabilities Act [see EEOC facts]), there was some confusion.  The supervisor balked and delayed granting accommodation.  Denora, although frustrated, appealed the decision and began advocating for herself with the result of receiving the accommodation requested.

We have learned that appearances may not be all that it seems.  There are different degrees of reactions to surgery and treatment for recovery.   A common side affect from surgery and/or chemotherapy is becoming easily fatigued.  Some people choose to wear a wig and makeup to conceal a hair loss and a pale complexion.  It is your choice.  Even if you conceal your condition, keep communication with your supervisor open to one time per week to measure your progress and weigh work options.  For example, you may require a 20 minute power nap after consuming your lunch.  Supervisors are not the announcers of your condition.  When you confide in a supervisor, it is expected that your confidentiality will be respected.  It is up to you to announce your condition.  Some co-workers may be nervous because of various degrees that people confront their own vulnerable.  You can set the tone in the office.  Use humor and redirect invasive conversations. 

Often people have good intentions when they begin to tell you stories related to cancer whether the outcomes are positive or negative, it is often the last thing you want to discuss.  Learn to protect yourself from additional stress.  Many people choose to work during and after treatment.  Many maintain their insurance coverage and do not have another alternative. Physicians and patients have reported a greater sense of optimism for the future was maintained during work or volunteer hours.

When you are not able to return to the office for periods of time, you can keep people informed.  By maintaining contact you avoid rumors, help calm others and create realistic expectations.    There is an online service called CaringBridge utilized by many to communicate with family, friends and colleagues.

If you feel that you are experiencing greater difficulty navigating and balancing your life, you may contact your Employee Assistance counselor or contact cancer care to schedule a meeting.