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Posted on September 24, 2008
by Anonymous Poster
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Returning to Work
I was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer in 2004. I was upper management and had not been in my job for more than 12 months so I was forced to take disability, which I fortunately had purchased through my employer. I have been in SS disability and private insurance since then.
I attempted to return to work once during this time and because of the small community I lived in, most people knew I had cancer and I did not get the job and I am sure that is the reason, even though it was the local hospital where I was treated.
I am now 61 and stable with only bone mets and would like to work at least part time if possible. How do I start this process. I am still under treatment. What do I say when asked why I have not worked in 4 years?
Please understand that I was an HR professional for 20 years and even I do not know the answer to this challenge.
I worked as co-chair of our county Relay for Life last year through radiation and chemo, so I know I can be a productive person again. I had worked for 40 years.
I know this is not a unique situation. Can you address "Returing to work" someplace on this site.
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Discussion Comments
by Deirdre, September 24, 2008
This is a great question...I knew there were more "me's" out there, yet I don't really know where to look for a job. I have been fighting cancer for five years and a special twist to my story is I had a stem cell transplant, so being around people is a threat to my health, until I receive all my immunizations. So I thought it'd be great to set up a survivor board...listing jobs for cancer survivros, by cancer survivors. Cancer survivors I would think would be more likely to understand the limitations. What do you think?
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Career Coach comment
You sound like a savvy woman who has a very realistic grasp of the issues you face in returning to work. Your background as an HR professional provides you with the perspective from the potential employer's point of view, enabling you to address any unspoken concerns even before they arise. Issues like your ability to maintain a steady attendance record, to have the stamina for any stresses that come up and their reluctance to take a risk during uncertain ecomonic times may all be on their mind. But, ther may be a way around these concerns.
Speaking from the perspective of a fellow survivor, I might advise that you first attempt the non-traditional approach to work so you don't necessarily even have to address those concerns. Think about offering your services to fellow HR professionals in your area on a contract or consulting basis. Your speciality lends itself very well to contract work, in recruiting, in training and development work such as curriculum design, facilitating training or coaching. You may even offer your services as a consultant in the outplacement arena.
Although you did not specify your geographic location, I would be surprised if there are not at least a few local employers who could use your expertise to tackle projec ts that they have on the back burner. And, consider HR outsourcing firms such as Gevity, outplacement firms such as DBM, Impact Group, Lee Hecht Harrison or Right Associates who regularly hire professionals like yourself to deliver job search services to those experiencing layoff.
There are many benifits to taking this approach, including the control you would have over your schedule, the ability to draw upon your well honed skills, and the ability to gain exposure to many possible employers as an expert, not a candidate.
I am guessing you have made numerous contacts throughout your career, and that you have forged some very strong relationships through the Relay for Life and other not-for -profit volunteer activities. Tap into those resources to see if they can refer you to colleagues who may need someone to tackle project work. I will be surprised if you don't turn up some potential opportunities to stay involved, use your skills and make some additional money in the process.
All my best as you continue your survivor's journey.
Kathy