Practical Issues - Working and Cancer

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If you’re employed, your cancer or your cancer treatment will most definitely affect your work.  Even if you’re self-employed or working from home, things may change as far as your ability to work is concerned.

Speaking to Your Employer and Co-Workers

Obviously, it will be necessary to let those you work with on a daily basis know about your meso diagnosis.  Tell your employer about your cancer and explain the potential difficulties of working during treatment.  Most employers are very understanding.  He/she can help you make adjustments, find co-workers to assist you, or perhaps offer you time off if needed.  Be sure to visit the Human Resources department to determine what your financial rights are during any time off from work. 

Some meso patients choose to tell their co-workers or colleagues about their disease, while others do not.  Some just choose to reveal their diagnosis to their closest friends at work.  It’s up to you.  Do be aware, however, that you may eventually exhibit some symptoms of cancer or side effects of cancer treatment, like excessive fatigue or hair loss, so those who don’t know about your disease may eventually figure it out.

To Work or Not to Work

The decision whether or not to work will depend largely on the seriousness of your cancer and the length and frequency of your treatment and your physical reaction to it.  Some cancer patients simply cannot work.  Others are lucky enough to have employers that will allow them to work from home or offer them shorter hours.

Some see this as an opportunity to take a much-needed break.  Still, other individuals with cancer see this as a chance to make a lifestyle change, perhaps eventually switching jobs or careers or starting a home-based business which will allow them to better deal with the time demands of their disease and treatment.

Work-related Financial Concerns

Once you determine your ability or inability to work, you’ll need to find out about sick pay, health benefits, and other issues which will affect the financial well-being of you and your family.  The answers to your financial questions will vary according to employer.  However, if you’re self-employed, you may want to visit a financial adviser who can help you determine the best way to remain financially solvent for the duration of your disease and treatment. 

Discrimination

If you feel as if you’ve been wrongfully terminated due to your disease or if your employer is making things unnecessarily difficult for you while you’re ill, seek help.  If you’re a member of a union, contact a union official.  You may also wish to contact a lawyer.