Trying to find a job

[CreativeCraftyCats]

Hello everyone

I’m trying to get back into work I’ve not worked for over a year, I had handed in my notice and about to start a night position in 2 weeks when I got totally sideswiped by FND I’d had a complete three month reprieve so I’d decided to move jobs I’m a veterinary nurse and was super excited about the new role unfortunately I couldn’t start. I really need and want to get back into work but struggle with mobility and can get days where concentrating on making a cuppa can fry my head. I can’t get any benefits I was refused PIP eventhough I can no longer safely drive and need to use a scooter or walker to get to the shops meaning I rely on family and friends to get out and about.

I need a job as the inheritance I used to support me has nearly run out and I need a income coming into the house as my husband can’t support us on just his wage and I hate he has to.

Does anyone have any tips or help when explaining FND to employers? I’ve applied to a few places but so far no luck and honestly I can’t blame them for employing people who can execute the full job description when I have areas I definitely can’t even using my out if the box thinking doesn’t work for some parts.

Here’s hoping I find something soon.

Susie

[84Sunflower84]

Hi Susie! How are you? I wanted to let you know you're not alone in trying to find a job with FND. I was put on medical leave from my job in February 2020, and I was diagnosed in April 2020. I have tremors in my head and hands that interfere with typing and speaking on the phone with customers. I am having a hard time finding something, too. I searched online for jobs with people in chronic pain because I couldn't find much about employment and FND. I came across a blog called Anxious Lass, and the writer gives some ideas of jobs people can hold if they have chronic pain or other illnesses. I read her posts often. I hope this helps, and if I think of anything else, I'll post it here. I also thought about going back to my local Vocational Rehabilitation center and explaining things to them to see if they can help. I have worked with them in the past because of other health issues I have, and they helped me find work. I wish you the best.

[84Sunflower84]

As far as my experience in explaining my FND symptoms to employers, I told them about the hand tremors and the head tremors. They provided me with speech-to-text software as an accommodation, but I have not been able to use it because of the head tremors. I work in customer service, and I had many people tell me they couldn't understand me. My operations manager suggested that I go on another leave of absence after I also had breathing problems and chest pains. They were understanding, and they are working with me on finding something I can do. I've not had any interviews since my diagnosis, but if I can find some tips to help with interviewing or speaking with employers, I'll post them here.

[CreativeCraftyCats in reply to 84Sunflower84]

HiThank you, I found a job and their all really understanding and helpful I’m doing 2.5 days and they don’t pressure me to do more and encourage and check I’m ok and not over doing it.

I’ve been lucky so far with my symptoms hoping it stays that way.

Good luck hope you find something that works for you too.

Susie 😻