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Annie, I can tell from your note that you are facing several levels of concern, none of them easy. Yet, your drive to think this situation through logically and systematically is clearly something in your favor. Let me try to address a few of your concerns, at least in a top line way. Then, I encourage you to reach out to your personal support network to talk these important things through face to face with people whose opinions you trust and value.

You did not mention your former industry, so it is not entirely clear what the specific demands of your profession would be. However, its probably a good idea to listen closely to your body during this period of recovery. You are not new to the fight to regain your strength and stamina, as this is your third go around with breast cancer, so you know how important it is for you to take your cues from how you are feeling, emotionally and physically. Be sure to ask your doctors for assistance with the symptoms you are still struggling to overcome, because the better you feel, the more successful you will find you are in seeking the right job for you.

Job search wise, it sounds like you have determined that a step back to a more managable workload and responsibilities is best for right now. This decision seems to be well in line with your current needs and makes perfect sense for this time in your life. With this in mind, be sure in that you streamline your resume to highlight those skills that are best suited for the jobs you are seeking when presenting your credentials to future employers. Have a clear story about your skills and background and why you are well suited for the target jobs. Be sure not to present credentials that vastly overshoot your targets.

One good thing to note is that in today's job market, many people are taking a step or two back from the high-powered careers they maintained before the economic downturn. There are many reasons people find themselves doing this including the market conditions, a need to stay in a location where a person's former professional expertise is no longer in demand, and the need to take stop gap positions to tide one over until the recession lifts.
So, your recovery from cancer may not even have to come into play in your discussions with potential employers unless you choose to bring it up or if you feel you will need accommodations. If you think aabout your job search from the potential employer's perspective and position yourself as someone who can solve problems and make positive contributions in areas that are of concern, you will eventually succeed in landing that job. Remember that all the skill and expertise you had prior to this bout with BC is still within you. You can draw upon this ability as you need...and use this knowledge to win over future employers.

In the meantime, I encourage you to seek out other support resources listed on the site and your circle of support locally to gain some insight into your insurance and lingering medical questions. And, I wish you a rapid and complete recovery with a job you truly enjoy!
My best,

Kathy
Career Coach,
Cancerandcareers.org