WORK

[Ellie9621]

Hello All,

Just looking for some advice really. I currently work in a prison and since March I have been fighting endometriosis and trying to come to work and peruse my career, however today I have realised I cant do it anymore.

I don't want Endometriosis to win and I feel like everyday is a constant battle. I am thinking about doing a nail course and going self employed so I am able to do my own hours and work around myself and my needs.

I am currently on Prostap injections however the past week my pains have been coming back really bad! I feel constantly tired, I have spent all morning crying prior to coming into work.

I just feel like no one understands and its horrible! I hate telling people I feel bad because I feel like its just 'oh ellies bad again'. I just don't know what to do and how to go about things.

Just looking for some advice on how people manage day-to-day life, work and if feeling like I do is normal?

Thanks so much xx

[PandoraPenguin]

I'm a teacher. I try to get in every day. Getting the pain meds right helps me to work. I always have some level of pain but I get it so it is manageable for what the day has in store; I know this may be much less predictable in a prison. Being in work every day even though it can be a struggle helps me mentally, at least I see people and get to have a general natter. Last go round I had a Drs appointment that saw me signed off for 2 weeks as he was concerned about my well being and being at home alone all day actually made me feel worse mentally as I was soooo bored. I'd love to do nails and hair and things the only thing I would caution you about is making a big change when you are at a difficult point. My husband is self employed and has been for 20 plus years. It is still stressful and you have a lot of responsibility to do paperwork, get clients, keep annoying clients happy which may be a lot to take when you are already feeling crappy. The bonus of being employed is that at least you get sick pay!

Have you spoken with management about your issues? Could they offer you less hours or an adjustment to your role (not sure how things work in a prison)? I explained to work that I have a chronic pain causing illness and that I will do my utmost but that if I can't be in that's because I'm physically unable to get out of bed. They don't really understand endo but I managed to get them to see that it is something that won't go away and is something that will get worse until surgery. They are fine with me doing my best and have offered me alternative arrangements if I can find anything that helps. I don't get asked to do cover lessons or things that require prolonged activity like Sports Day.

[Ellie9621 in reply to PandoraPenguin]

Yes, I see what you are saying although the management are supportive to a degree, I don't feel like they understand. I am only 21 and I just feel like I need to find a job that is going to fit around me.

We don't get sick pay for the first three days we are off! so when I have an odd day off here and there I don't get paid.

I just think if I was to do something like that then I would enjoy it, i've always wanted my own little business and think it will keep my mind busy.

Atleast your work are good with you! and you'll break up for six weeks soon won't you? which I guess is a bonus when you have endo. I just don't know what to do anymore.

Thank you for your response