Treatment continues

Hi Kazzi,

I was diagnosed 8 January with invasive ductal carcinoma. I have had 6 x TAC chemo treatments from Feb to May, at 3 weekly intervals. 

I am booked for surgery end of June, then radiation. 

During this time, I worked for 2 weeks out of every 3. I had the chemo week off sick then back to work for the next 2 weeks, then repeat. I have been so fortunate to have an employer who is extremely supportive and flexible. I am a PA to management and a lovely colleague PA would do my work while I was off sick. 

I am glad I did it this way. I enjoyed having my normal life at work to return to. I preferred to keep busy, rather than sit at home to dwell on my situation. 

At first, I just told my bosses and trusted work colleagues. After a couple of weeks, I felt comfortable to be quite open with my colleagues about my medical condition and treatment.

With my chemo regime my hair fell out after 2 weeks. I wanted to continue to look myself - maintain my professional image. So, I went to a specialty wig retailer (owned by a lady who had breast cancer) and had them match a wig to my hair style and colour. This turned out to be such a good match, that I regularly tricked the ladies at work. I even have a name for my wig - Donna. 

Anyway, working during chemo is doable, as long as you listen to your body and have an understanding/flexible boss.

Cath