Return to work plan

Hello! I have a lot to unpack, please stay with me. Feeling a bit overwhelmed lately.

I was diagnosed with DCIS (grade 2 ER & PR+ ER-) in Dec 2025, had a double mastectomy and DIEP flap reconstruction in Feb 2026 followed by sentinel lymph node dissection. I was away from work for 10 weeks and went back part time for 2 weeks before starting chemotherapy in May. I was fortunate enough to be off work for the duration of my chemo treatment, which has been a blessing, as I struggled a lot with the side effects of my AC chemo treatment.

It has been 2 weeks since I finished my last cycle of chemo and I originally planned to go back on the first week of August. Things have not gone according to plan and I feel very fatigued, I can't eat properly yet, have anemia and the thought of going back to work is actually causing me anxiety. I have given work a heads up and they have been supportive but I know they will ask for a return to work plan very soon. I have a consult with my Oncologist this coming Friday to discuss all things post treatment including a return to work plan.

My work is demanding, in a high pace environment and I used to perform at the highest level. These days I can't even remember where I left my water bottle plus the fact I still don't have a solid night sleep which is crucial for my wellbeing and performance.

To be very honest, I feel disconnected. I have been in some sort of social isolation (my choice to keep away from bugs) due to my treatment and the only people I see or speak on a daily basis is my husband and 2 daughters who have been very supportive but their life didn't stop - they still go to work, uni, see friends. 

I would like to hear from others when they went back to work and in which capacity - full time or part time? working from home for a start or office days? has your Oncologist guided you on any of these decisions based on your medical/physical conditions? Any advice/experience is very much welcome, thank you x