Hello, Chris61- I had chemo, rads and a lumpectomy nearly three years ago now. I found the treatment left me unable to continue my job as a High School teacher, as the treatment took all my strength and tenacity, and I have never really regained it.
I looked into taking early retirement [I was 54 at the time], but was advised by my union that as I had 'only' had Primary cancer, the chances of it being granted were very slim- years ago, any stage cancer would have granted you early retirement without a quibble, but times have changed, and it is normally only those on stages three or four, who are likely to get it.
I was also warned that should I apply for early retirement, and get turned down, that the County Council who employed me, would very likely just sever my contract under the 'competence to work' clause.
In the end, I took voluntary redundancy, as the school was restructuring, and then I was able to take my pension at 55. However, it really brought it home to me just how many employers are making it almost impossible to take early retirement through ill health- a reflection of the tough economic times we live in, I guess.
Please do not let this put you off, however, because your education authority may have less stringent rules to mine, but I thought I would just let you know my experience. All the best.
