English Community

Hi all,

During today's Teal Tea, there were a few conversations about returning to work, and I thought I'd continue that discussion here by sharing my experience.

I was two years into a new leadership role at a cultural institution when I was diagnosed with mucinous carcinoma in May 2022. Treatment was bumpy (isn't it always?), and although I was technically off work, let's just say they knew how to find me whenever something was blowing up. I live in a small community, so there wasn't much hiding. Thankfully, my benefits were excellent, and I was able to stay home for about 14 months.

Looking back, though, I wasn't ready to return.

Just four months after I was back at my desk, I ended up in an ambulance headed to the city for emergency surgery because of a bowel obstruction.

Then, within my first year back at work, I found myself in the middle of a legal battle that I was nowhere near mentally or physically prepared for. When you're in a leadership position, there's very little room to step back or admit you're struggling.

Don't get me wrong, I have an incredible team. But for everyone else, life had moved on. I was trying to be the leader I had been before cancer while also figuring out what survivorship actually looked like. The truth is, I had no idea who I was anymore.

I'm now just shy of four years since my last chemo, and I can honestly say it's only recently that the fog has started to lift. I think more clearly. I have more energy. I finally feel like I'm becoming myself again, or should I say, a new and improved me. 

If I've learned anything, it's that returning to work doesn't mean you've recovered. Give yourself grace and don't be afraid to set your boundaries and ask for support. 

Everyone's journey is different, and I'd love to hear yours. Whether your return to work went smoothly or was anything but, what did you learn along the way? Is there something you wish someone had told you before you went back?

And if you're preparing to return, what are you most worried about? What questions do you have? Maybe those of us who've been there can help make that transition a little less overwhelming.

Lisa

Hi @LDMaking thank you for your post. It is indeed an important topic that certainly impacts many in this forum. I was already retired when I was diagnosed so did not have the additional challenges of 'work'. I do however look forward to seeing some posts from other Teal Sisters.

I would also like to share some resources that are available if of any value.

After Cancer Defining Work Purpose

This link should take you to a post by @mfallis_OCC posted on OVd last year including a link to a presentation from the OCC's 2025 National Symposium on "Redefining Work, Purpose and Possibility"

As well, one of the speakers in the above mentioned presentation (Maureen Parkinson), is the co-lead and content lead Cancer and Work where she has helped individuals with returning, remaining and finding work after cancer. You can read more about her in the information above and I've included the link to that website above.

#OCCinfoandupdates