Wow, hats off to you for everything you've been through.

I was a cancer patient, but not until shortly after taking early retirement. Previously I did have a long spell off work due to inner ear nerve damage, cause unknown, which means I suffer from vertigo, dizziiness, fatigue, plus I'm aware I don't process information as quickly as before. So getting back to work wasn't easy.

Looking back, I put too much pressure on myself to be "normal." My situation had changed, Occupational Health recognised that, as did my boss. A couple of people at work didn't "get it." but I soon realised that was more about them than me.

In the early stages, I would pretend everything was okay even when I felt rough. Then I learned to say, "I need to step out for a bit of fresh air." That made things easier. People are not mind readers, but most want to help if they know you need a break. a little time out. It's more productive in the long run.

It isn't easy being a different version of yourself, but you're still here, still doing your best. That's pretty amazing. 

regards, gamechanger

Hi I was having kemo three years ago I wasn't good with it I had it every 21 days for first 3 to 4 days I was OK then it started I was sick all the time days and night I had pains all over for 7 to 8 days then it went off I felt better just in time for more kemo. When I was OK I went to work (metal fab and welding) my boss was very understanding, when I got to retiring age he asked me to stop on even part time if I wanted. I'did for 3 years but then my wife got ill so I have to look after her now. I found work helps to keep the mind off the cancer. Good luck,.

Billy 

Thank you so much for all of your posts - there really mean a lot. Bits that took me a few minutes before my cancer diagnosis are now taking me up to about an hour if not much longer. I work in accounting. You guys are right though - my boss is one of the 99% that do care - so that’s good.