Returning to work after chemo. Worried about lack of immunity when mixing with large groups of people

I have just completed 6 cycles of chemo. Triplet for Advanced prostrate cancer. Chatted to oncologist who seemed quite upbeat. PSA went from 74 to is now 0.2.

I felt pretty good about this but he seemed to have reservation when I asked him if I could return to work in January 26. I work in hospitality and have occasions when I am mixing with large groups of people. This has unsettled me. Any thoughts or experiences that could be shared to increase my confidence?

  • Hi Toonie,

    Great to read about your road to recovery!

    Did you ask him why he had these reservations?
    It may be that he’s worried that your immune system will still be compromised then.
    For what it’s worth, as a manager I twice had team members return to work after chemo. Reasonable adjustments were made including a longer than normal phased return to ensure they were physically and mentally able to cope before returning full time.

    In my own case, I took early retirement after a long period of sickness absence before starting part time working as an independent contractor.


    Good luck!

    Dave

  • Offline in reply to davek

    Thanks Dave. I really appreciate your feedback. Immunity or lack of was my main thought.