For survivors of serious illness, a second battle begins at the workplace after treatment ends
Accommodating the needs of a worker returning to the office after a serious illness can create operational challenges, but open communication and adaptable work arrangements can allow the staff member to recover while continuing to contribute, survivors and managers say.
Returning to the workplace after a serious illness can present challenges for employees, but open communication and flexible arrangements can help them continue contributing, according to survivors and managers. Patricia Malay, a 46-year-old general manager at Bud Communications, faced fatigue after undergoing a mastectomy and breast reconstruction for stage 0 breast cancer.
She discussed her limitations with her team and boss, who provided understanding and flexibility. Malay's agency accommodated her needs, allowing her to work at a pace she was comfortable with. Her experience suggests that many companies have already handled similar situations with employees who needed time to recover from medical conditions.
Faridah Ahmad, a 29-year-old social work assistant, faced a different reality after being diagnosed with Stage 2 Hodgkin's Lymphoma at 17. Employers questioned her ability to cope with work requirements and medical leave during job interviews. Despite being in remission, Ahmad still experiences fatigue, memory lapses, and neuropathy, which hinder her performance.
She felt treated like "glass" and passed over for promotions due to her illness. Ahmad now works at a supportive workplace but highlights the need for clearer legal guidance on accommodations for employees returning to work after serious illness.
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