You've nailed it there, @RipleyandJones - re work & expectations vs reality .... Don't beat yourself up, as most of us have felt what you are going thru xx
Do you have a sympathetic boss/supervisor? Are you able to have a chat with them? This disease really does muck with your brain, even more than the body, I reckon. It can also make you a bit more emotional than before - and that makes you a bit vulnerable to peoples' comments. :( Most don't 'mean' to be 'nasty' ... they just don't truly think thru their comments.
Yes, sadly, even family members can believe you 'cured' after your surgery and 'treatment' and expect you to 'be as before' ... but as we know it takes much longer to really get over all the mental and physical trauma that we've been through. :(
Definitely be kind to yourself and feel free to say 'no' to requests or expectations of behaviour from you, until you are up to it. Definitely consider have a chat with a counsellor (or ring the helpline above & have a chat) ...
they can help give you coping mechanisms xx
Yes, we do all deserve a medal - and we are all strong in our own way xx.
Try and keep busy in your 'down time' .... it helps keep your mind off 'things' ...
Take care and all the best for your ongoing treatment xx
