WHEN TO RETURN TO WORK?

[Lara1244]

I am 59 yrs old and had a TLH and BLSO to deal with stage 1b Endo cancer (successful and no other treatment needed). I was given 6 weeks off and had a fit note provided by the hospital. I have a couple more days before my note is up. I have made a lot of progress and have been driving short distances for the past week but very much up and down as far as my emotions and physical health are concerned and - I get low, irritable and tearful at times and also get intermittent stomach pains which are better than they were. I did have a bladder and skin infection in second week which set me back. I don’t feel 100% at this stage although a lot better than I was - I have to go for a scan for a pea sized lump under my skin where laparoscopic surgery was performed but could be scar tissue - the scan is to put my mind at rest. When are other ladies returning to work and how are they feeling at that stage - are they feeling well or not quite there yet and needed more time off?

Lara xx

[mummabea]

I definitely wasn’t ready to go back at six weeks. I didn’t have my check up until 8 weeks and pronounced fit for work. I returned on a phased return at 10 weeks and even then I felt it was too soon. Don’t listen to anyone as it’s how you feel. If you’re not ready to go back-and I personally think it’s too soon-go back to your gp and ask for a paper. It’s a slow and steady recovery - you’ll feel great one day and down the next, but if you rush things you could prolong it. Don’t feel guilty as it’s a big operation & everyone heals at a different rate. The fit note from the hospital means you’re healing well-it doesn’t mean you’re fit for work as how do they know how you’re feeling. Go and speak to your doctor. Return to work when you feel ready. Good luck & don’t feel guilty!

[Lara1244 in reply to mummabea]

Hi mummabea

Your words have really helped and I do feel I’m not quite where I should be - I think when I get bored then I’m ready to return!!! I haven’t got to that stage!!

My line manager has been in touch throughout and very supportive and doesn’t want me to return too soon and it’s just as well as I don’t feel ready and was panicking about returning this Thursday, as although I will have a supported return it is a mentally demanding job.

I’m a worker not a shirker and I feel I will know for sure when I’m ready to return. Also suffering badly with insomnia so napping in afternoon which I need.

You are so right ‘Bea’ about feeling great one day and back down the next - what’s that all about?!!! Headaches nausea and stomach pain on bad days.

I’m so grateful you have taken time out to reply to me - means such a lot when there are kind people like u out there to reassure.

Loads of appreciation

Lara. 🤗xxx

[mummabea in reply to Lara1244]

Happy to help. I needed reassurance afterwards so it’s good to hear from people who’ve been through the same thing as you. Be kind to yourself and return when you’re ready. 🥰

[yashmintai]

Hello. If you still not feeling well you can go back to your family doctor.you might get more rest legally 15 weeks government will pay for sickness.

[Lara1244 in reply to yashmintai]

Hi thank you for your advice I’m very grateful xx