Hi, I was interested to read the article. I returned to work a couple of weeks ago, having surgery in September and October, and completing radiotherapy mid December. I work as a Sister on a very busy acute paediatric unit. I did attempt to return to work between surgery and radiotherapy but Occ Health said not to. One of the reasons for this (that I am struggling with now) is that it is policy at the NHS trust where I work to use annual leave for a phased return. I feel that I'm trying to do the right thing in moving forward and resume 'normality', but I'm exhausted, my breast which was moderately painful is now very painful, and next week I'll be back to my normal hours as my leave is used up! The only saving grace is that I work part-time or this would be impossible. I usually work a 12.5 hour shift but there is just no way I'm ready yet. My manager has been very supportive and I can work shorter shifts for as long as I need. This is great, but then I have to do more shifts and therefore more trips to and from work (40 min drive each way). It's always crazily busy too, you can't take things easy. I have lovely, supportive colleagues thank goodness. Add the demands of family life into the equation (2 children, 13 and 11) and it's becoming a little stressful. On the days I work, I've learned very quickly that that's all I can do that day (don"t pop to Tesco on the way home then put the Hoover round and do the washing, I learned the hard way!) I really feel as though I need a clone right now as I'm struggling to make everything work. I'm sure it will get easier in time. I hope. Ceebee, I hope you sort something re your shifts. Best wishes xx
... View more