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Nyrie's avatar
Nyrie
Member
10 years ago

Workforce and lymphedema

I feel I was threatened with not having my contract renewed yesterday at work because I had reported a flare up in my lymphedema to the workplace health and safety officer. The WPHSO was understanding. I'd taken down over 600 pieces of student artwork and moved tables and pin boards on my day off (I even had to bring my 3 yo twins as I couldn't find a sitter). I had been told I'd have student help but there was none. I tried to find help with no luck. I was upset and my arm was compromised. I'd tried to set up an action plan early last year because I went on school camp but they said "we'll put you on light duties for camp and just tell people about your condition as you go!" I called the bc nurses yesterday for advice and had to leave a message as there was no answer at 9am! In the mean time I called my oedema clinic who were very helpful and wrote me a letter which I will take to a meeting I've scheduled with my boss on Monday at 8am. The bc nurse called me back at 3pm on school pick up (not a good time) to say she didn't know anything about the current workplace laws so didn't know if my boss could threaten me with sacking!!!!! I know not renewing my contract due to lymphedema is wrong and I would suggest that anyone with lymphedema should have an action plan for when they return to work! That's what I will be recommending to my boss on Monday.

1 Reply

  • Hi Nyrie,

    My name is Ann-Marie and I am the Online Community Coordinator at BCNA.

    You may wish to contact the Cancer Council's Information and Support line on 13 11 20. The Cancer Council can provide support and advice about issues relating to employment, including workplace and legal issues.

    There is also quite a lot of information about work, including your rights at work, on the Cancer Council NSW's website. You can find the information here. They also have a booklet called Cancer, Work & You, which might be useful.

    ~Ann-Marie x