Signed off work/how do you keep yourself occupied.

[Terry123]

Hi Baz,

Thank you for your reply much appreciated.  I am trying to keep myself as busy as I can but it has been a culture shock to the system.  I have started going to our local Maggies Centre.  I am still going to the gym under a revised programme compared to what I done before I started Chemo.  I enjoy reading and have found a monthly book club which I can go to. 

My family and friends provide a strong network and I am also going to Yoga classes and Mind and Body Classes at the Gym.  We also have 2 cats which provide much focus but your puppy will bring you much joy - my husband and I are both dog lovers. 

There are many "projects" which I could do in the house and my friends have also suggested getting a jigsaw to complete.

Many thanks for your reply and the amount of thought and detail you put in - it is much appreciated.

Best wishes

Jacqui xx

[Bazookas]

Hi Jacqui,
I'm not in your situation as I haven't worked for a long time (spinal surgery then pregnancy and other stuff) but it must be very difficult not being at work if you've been working continually for 29 years. It must be a bit like being redundant - you must feel at a loose end. Do you have any other friends or relatives who are around during the day for one reason or another (part time or shift work or out of work)? If so you could meet up with them for a coffee or an afternoon cinema trip or day out? Did you have things you did out of work that you enjoyed? Obviously if it was going to the gym you may not be able to do the same things you used to although you might be able to do Pilates or swimming. Were you in a book club? If not that might be something you can get involved in. Ask your friends and around locally if there's a book club you can join if that might interest you? I am still going to the same book club I joined 2 yrs ago. I missed one due to surgery and I'll possibly miss another one somewhere down the line if it clashes with chemo but I really enjoy it and it's good to carry on doing normal things through all the cancer craziness. Is there anything you can make plans for - a holiday or trip somewhere? Anything in the house you've always wanted to sort out and organise (piles of paperwork, clear out a room, make your bedroom cosier or plan some redecoration - for example). Will you be going back to your old job or starting something new? I have done something I wouldn't recommend. We took in a 5 month old rescue puppy 10 days before I started chemo. He is lovely and we're making it work but the timing wasn't good! But my husband and daughter are doing a lot towards his care - so far! People have said that after a cancer diagnosis you have to find your new normal - what feels right for you. I wish you good luck with getting used to not being at work and finding other (interesting & rewarding) things to help you pass the days
Baz x

[Terry123]

Hi all,

I need a bit of guidance and support how to fill my days during chemo.  I have worked full time for 29 years and find it very difficult not to be active all the time as I normally would. Side effects has been minimal.   I just wondered how other people have coped with this aspect of going through chemo.  Lack of activity is making me feel anxious and unsettled.  Any thoughts and ideas would be extremely welcome.

Best wishes

Jacqui xx