Tips for balancing cancer & work
Wherever you are on your cancer journey, you may have concerns about your work life or income. It’s important to know your options so you can make choices that are best for you.
Deciding what’s best for my family
If you’re not sure where to begin, start by talking to your cancer care team. It will help to discuss and better understand how long your treatment may take and any limitations you may have so you can make a plan for work and time off. Remember, taking an active role in your treatment decisions is important. You can ask your care team:
- How much time will I need to take off for my treatment(s)?
- What side effects might interfere with my work and when should I expect to experience them?
- If I am worried about returning to work, where can I get support?
It’s also important to talk to your loved ones about how treatment may impact your lives and income situation. It’s a challenging situation and decision. But together, you can weigh your options and decide on a plan that is right for your family.
Talking to your employer
When you are ready, talk with your employer about your treatment. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to your Human Resources (HR) department about your company’s policies. Your employer may offer flexible scheduling or paid leave options during your treatment.
If you work at a company that does not offer paid leave, there may still be options available for you, including financial support.
Workplace conversations
Here’s a list of questions to consider when you speak with your employer:
- What is our company’s leave policy, including FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act), sick time, paid time off, and unpaid leave?
- Is there an option for flexible scheduling as I’m going through treatment or returning to work?
- Will I be able to modify my work routine, if needed, to help manage symptoms or treatment effects?
- How much notice will I need to give before taking time off or returning to work?
- How can I stay updated on anything that I’ll miss during my treatment?
- Will there be any impact to my pay or benefits during or after treatment?
- Is there anything I should do to make sure my job is secure?
How can I find cancer financial support?
Did you know there are organizations that offer support for those facing cancer, including financial assistance and help balancing work? You may also be able to find help with transportation, housing, food, or other needed household goods while on cancer treatment.
Working after cancer treatment
Returning to work after treatment is a big step. Take your time getting back into the swing of things. Contact your HR department to discuss the details of your return, including any flexible scheduling, part-time hours, or time off that may be needed for follow-up appointments.
As you get back into a more regular routine, remember that you may still experience some symptoms or side effects. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you return to work after treatment:
- Stay in contact with your manager. Update them on how you’re feeling and if you need any specific accommodations at work
- Plan for regular breaks as needed to help with fatigue. Talk to your manager about the best times for short, scheduled breaks
- Take things slowly. You might need to do tasks differently or at a slower pace when returning to work. Again, keep your manager updated on what to expect and what tasks you feel ready to do
- Take notes and set reminder alarms as you’re getting used to your daily schedule again
Where can I find more cancer support?
Access resources that may help you during cancer treatment, including how to find financial support, local childcare, transportation services, and other important resources.
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