HEALTHY BODY
As a Texas Oncology physician , it ’ s my job to lend an ear to patients undergoing cancer treatment , and provide advice and support . One concern I hear from newly-diagnosed patients is whether or not they will be able to continue working while undergoing treatment . Many believe that working will allow them to maintain some sense of normalcy , while others need to work to support their families financially .
While each patient ’ s situation is unique , many continue working through some or all of their treatment . A cancer diagnosis affects not only the patient , but coworkers as well . However , because cancer is a very personal and sensitive issue , I recommend following a few guidelines for dealing with cancer in the workplace .
IF YOU ARE A CANCER PATIENT As a cancer patient , your first priority should be your health . Talk with your doctor first before deciding if you should continue working . Your body will need time to heal and the side effects , both emotional and physical , can make maintaining a full workload and schedule difficult .
Next , talk to your supervisor early on to learn about your employer ’ s policies for assisting employees with a long-term illness , and decide on a work arrangement that works for both of you . Also , sharing your diagnosis with colleagues is a personal decision . I recommend sharing with those you trust most , as they may be willing to help and provide a support system .
WORKING WITH CANCER :
Tips for Patients , Supervisors and Co-Workers
IF YOU SUPERVISE SOMEONE WITH CANCER Learning that your direct report has cancer can be alarming , but as a supervisor , your role in helping them manage their work life is vital . First , it ’ s important to provide support by listening to their needs and feelings , knowing that their emotions will fluctuate through the course of their treatment . Then , work with your employee to build a plan for dividing responsibilities , and consider any special needs they may have such as moving closer to the bathroom , or taking unexpected time off . Finally , take time to recognize your feelings about the situation , as this will help you cope .
IF YOUR COLLEAGUE HAS CANCER When a colleague confides in you that he or she has been diagnosed with cancer , you may be surprised that you feel sad or resentful ; however , these are normal reactions and there are ways to cope with these emotions . First and foremost , respect the fact that your co-worker trusted you enough to tell you about his or her diagnosis and allow that person to share this news with others on their own terms .
Next , if your manager redistributes responsibilities or shares a new work schedule to help accommodate your co-worker with cancer , be open to it and to stick to the new plan , which will reduce stress for all . Find ways to help out your team , like bringing in lunch , or volunteering to assist with extra projects . Know that your colleague will be experiencing a roller coaster of emotions , so don ’ t take it personally if that person acts in a way that ’ s unusual toward you . Finally , find someone who you can share your feelings about the situation . Cancer doesn ’ t just affect the patient – it affects nearly everyone in a patient ’ s life .
Alvaro Restrepo , MD Alvaro Restrepo , M . D ., is a medical oncologist at Texas Oncology – McAllen , 1901 South 2nd Street in McAllen , Texas . To learn more about exciting advancements in cancer treatment , visit www . TexasOncology . com or call 1-888-864-I CAN ( 4226 ).
20 / HEALTHY RGV