Hep C and the workplace

[Mishelli]

I was wondering if anyone knew a website or had any info on workplace issues and hep c.  I have used all of my sick days and most of vaca days.  I cant afford to be out and not get paid.  But what am I suppose to do if I am not feeling well.  I feel like **** today.  But I can tolerate it.  Im just concerned about days that I cant.  Anyone have any advice?

Thanks

Shell

[fivecities]

For me, I need to stop working. My job is way to stressful and the work load wont be reduced.  I went thru this before and a reduced schedule didnt work.  I basically tried to work from home, but I did very little work.  My current DR is also convinced that I need a place to go each day, so he doesnt want me on disability.  Im changing DR's because of this.  If I cant get ST, I wont treat.  I am not going to subject myself to this work place while I feel like ****.  I also dont need all the well intentioned co-workers telling me how sorry they are for me.  Id be better off doing some volunteer work in my community a few days a week.  I plan on going out on FMLA with STD.

[friole]

The Janis sight has some info - here is the e addy

http://janis7hepc.com/Ins%20&%20Financial%20Aid.htm

Like Cuteus, I too work and would feel worse laying on the couch all day long.  Better for me to get up and at 'em.  My productivity is definitely on the low end, but I have been here a long time and have earned the right to slack off.  (besides, I am the boss and so they can't fire me (LOL))

Is there any way you could ask for a less demanding job for the remainder of your tx?  That might help.  Have you even told your employers?  They may be able to help.  I would think medical insurance would be the primary reason to stay at work if possible (If you have it).

[timedog]

don't get why you are switching Drs because he is telling you something you don't want to hear? or he is just no good and doesn't know much about hep c treatment.

my job is about as stressful as they come and some how 17 weeks in I have managed to muddle through. What of the side effects stopped you from being able to work? the famous brain  fog? the low enegery? riba rash?

[MissMiss]

I am a sub custodian at a school district.  My husband ended up turning in my keys about half way through this 48 tx.  I would have kept going but will say my husband is my hero for turning those keys in for me.  My blood levels were dropping every week, all I was doing was sleeping and working (not to complain but there was never a good dinner and laundry was stacking up and weekends were always out because Friday, Sat and Sun were shot nights).  I was having to take 2 Tylenol 3's just to get through the night.

Perhaps if my job had not been so physical and demanding I could have stuck it out longer.  

I agree that if you can continue to work you should do so.  Drowning in self pity does you no good.  But, there is a point and it is different for everyone, where pushing yourself harder could be a push in the wrong direction.  Every time I worked and pushed, my blood levels dropped and took longer to come back up.  It's been since about Feb since I worked and with 6 weeks to go, my blood levels are lower than they have ever been, except WBC.  

I do what I can, when I can.  I hurt from head to toe, especially my right hip down.  I can't always finish dinner for the family.  I end up taking T3's several times a week.  I find I can't stand long at all without wanting to pass out

I also don't feel too guilty not working.  But, without my hero husband, who brings home enough for us to make it right now, I would have no choice but to keep working, even if it meant I had to stop tx.  

I am also sure my doc would not have signed any disability papers.  With no ST or LT insurance as a substitute, it isn't an issue.  If it were, I might have thought to change docs too.

Point is, we all react different.  Don't feel bad if you can't keep on keeping on like you used to but do try.  And try to keep as much normalcy and activity as you can for as long as you can.
Just my thoughts here.

miss

[MissMiss]

One more thought,

Your body is still acclimating to these drugs.  Watch your hgb early on.  Things should start to level out and you may be just fine working.  Give it your best shot, that's all any of us can do.  Good luck and hope things level out soon.  Drink lots of water too.  Oh, and I hate stairs too.  Ugh!

miss

[fivecities]

I apologize if I was misleading.  I havent started treatment yet. I start next month. I did treat with interferon only back in 1996-1998 and had a rough time.  Thats when I had the leg problems.  I had severe fatigue, was always in a bad mood and was not productive.  I hid out at work as much as possible back then.  I cant do that in this position.  I was supposed to retire next month, but then found I need to retreat, after 8 years.  I was planning to start my own business in retirement.  If I retire, the cost of my medical coverage increases about six times and Ive been paying for ST and LT disability insurance for many years and never used it.  I think I should have the opportunity to go out on ST and see how I tolerate this treatment before I commit to retirement and the new business. I want out of this particular work environment very badly.  The stress levels and the environment have just become too much for me.

My current DR is probably good.  I dont care for his NP, and she seems to be the one I have to deal with.  Their office seems too busy and Im concerned that I may not get the attention I need.  It takes them two days to return a phone call. Anyway, Im going to talk to another DR tomorrow and see what they say. I understand the thinking behind staying involved and having a reason to get out of bed, Im just thinking I can have other reasons to get out of bed and that shouldnt have to be a job.

Thanks for your comments.  I am so glad you folks are here.