I'm approaching age 50...diagnosed with breast cancer...spent 2009 being treated with chemo, surgery, radiation...still receiving herceptin treatments through 2010...my "sick" days and vacation days were spent in treatment, other than that, I never missed a day from being "sick.†I joke that I'm the healthiest 'sick' person working for the company...the company I work for is struggling....as people are laid off or leave, it seems I am the one inheiriting their jobs, with little or no training. Previously, I wasn't busy enough, but now I'm sinking...ownership/management changes convince me the company will likely implode--decisions are inefficient, and without solid direction...Cancer has taught me that life is too short to spend 8 hours a day being miserable, but...How does a person who has age and medical diagnosis against them navigate an almost impossible job market to pursue opportunities that are more fulfilling? I know it's against the law to "discriminate" against someone with a disability; and cancer is considered a disability...but how can an honest person, pursue job opportunities and not reveal the true situation? Suppose I kept quiet and when offered the job, had to say, "Oh, by the way, I need a 1/2 day off every three weeks for medical treatments?" I'm sure I'm not the only one in our profession dealing with these issues. Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks.
Submitted by: Anonymous
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With the job market as tight as it is right now, I would definitely not quit until you have found another job.
During the interviews, if it comes up, I would be honest with them. Half a day off every three weeks is not a lot.
However, if it doesn’t come up – and I really don’t see how it would – you’re under no obligation to volunteer that information.
Annabel Carney
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Anonymous on
3/23/2010 12:35:41 PM
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First I want to wish you health to you. Second, you need to take at least a break from work once in a while. I commend you for all the additional work that you are taking, however, you also need to time to Debrief your mind. Without peace in mind, you can’t have a healthy life. Your brain plays a big function in your day to day life. I recommend to assign a priority list of things that needs to be complete immediately for example things that needs to be complete tomorrow, in 2 days, in a week or in a month. Discuss with your boss and assure him that your commitment to complete all task assigned is your major concern. This would help you sometimes to delegate some task to any summer youth work-study (if any) or any intern in your company. Most of all, you need time for yourself and to take care yourself.
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Miss Marilyn on
3/18/2010 12:25:59 PM
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Find a job that complements your new appreciation for life. Look for nontraditional work with charities, nonprofits, not-for-profits, and small businesses who would love to have your breadth of experience and who would value your choice of life over money.
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Anonymous on
3/12/2010 2:27:42 PM
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Congratulations - on your beating your illness, and your outlook on life. I hope others would/could be encouraged to take a page from your book.
My suggestion would be for you to reach out to enableamerica.org, careersforpeoplewithdisabilities.org, bot non profits that help people with disabilities and the work force. Perhaps you could meet with one of their counselors who can give you some advice or leads.
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Brenda Worthy on
3/11/2010 8:55:01 AM
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Anonymous -
You need to sell yourself based on your abilities and your commitment to work. Perhaps needing a half day off every 3 weeks, means that you need to look for part - time or 4 day week. Look in those directions. You do not have to disclose your illness or age. If you get offered a position will the shorter schedule or less hours - try to arange you treatment schedule to fit the new spot. I wish you the best of luck.
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Mary Baechle on
3/10/2010 12:44:48 PM
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I would talk to someone at a temp/perm agency such as Office Team, ProStaff or whatever is in your area of the country. They could probably give you advice and also help you to find a permanent job. Good luck! Lori
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Lori Eilers on
3/10/2010 11:45:55 AM
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I applaud your fighting nature and that you are not giving in. Although I cannot relate to your situation; as a one time hiring manager, I appreciated that the interviewee was up front with me and let me know their situation. I do not think keeping it to yourself until you get hired is the right thing, but being miserable in your job is not good for your health either. Not sure what your profession is, but if financially possible, maybe take a part time job or do some temp work to allow you the time for your medical treatments while still working. Hope all turns out well.
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TinkS on
3/9/2010 1:34:55 PM
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