Many people consider their work and career path to be an important part of life, for financial and personal reasons. Whether you’re working through breast cancer treatment or returning to work afterward, it’s normal to worry how your cancer history may affect your ability to work, earn a living, and progress toward your career goals.
Working during treatment or returning to work after treatment can have many benefits, including:
- Maintaining a feeling of normalcy
- Helping you earn needed income
- Distracting you from medical issues
- Maintaining your social and professional contacts
- Helping you keep health insurance coverage
- Supporting your career involvement
But working after a cancer diagnosis can be challenging. How do you balance your physical needs with the pressures of the workplace? Can you ask for your employer to make concessions to your needs? Do you have to tell employers (or potential employers) about your diagnosis?
It’s OK to acknowledge when you feel overwhelmed or need help. Only you can decide when you feel ready for work or how much you can handle during treatment, but if you are ready and willing to work you may be able to get accommodations from your employer so you can continue to do your job despite health issues.
Discuss with your employer if it’s possible to adjust your schedule, to take time off for treatment or recovery, or if there are other ways to work around your needs. Learn what you are entitled to under the law, this may include reasonable accommodations, like a modified schedule, or protected medical leave.