Returning back to work...

[Force]

Hello everyone

I have completed treatments and need to be thinking about when I should be returning back to work, for everyone that was off work due to Hep C treatments (Interferon & Rib) how long did it take before you were able to function at 100% and return back to your normal job? I have heard from a few people 8 weeks seems to work best.

My position is very demanding mentally and it is normal for me to be working anywhere from 10 to 12 hour a days.

Not sure if I will have the energy to do this should I maybe start back with fewer duties or part-time? I do not want to jeopardize my job.

It would be helpful to get an idea of how hard to push my self based on others in the same boat.

Thanks for your help

Force

[FlGuy]

If you're able to work, go to work.  Jobs don't grow on trees these days.

[sunshine585]

Good question. I have just stopped tx myself, and need to plan my return to work, difficult, since I have no idea how long it'll take me to recoup enough so that I can do my job. I too work 12hrs also shift work. I was thinking of aiming for the beginning of Jan. and asking for a graduated return. That way, I can see what I can do and not let anyone down.

[Deb_c430]

good news I think when you work, you maybe tired for a couple of weeks, but you catch up to the  work load. I did anyway.  

Prioritze, make lists and  hang in there!

[portann]

If I were as fit as you've been throughout treatment, I'd race back to work. It would be so brave to leap back in and great for your morale. If it turns out you've bitten off more than you can chew,  then you could cut back your hours a bit.

You strike me as someone who likes a physical challenge and would take pride in going full-tilt. I'd just head on back and suck it up. That's what I'd choose in your very fortunate situation, where you've been exceptionally active throughout treatment.

And I wouldn't wait until after X-mas. It's better to make the move sooner rather than later to avoid dwelling on how you'll cope. I'm sure it will all be fine and you'll draw on your inner force.

[jdwithhcv]

I returned to work a month ago after completing tx in early August.  I did not have the option to return part-time but I wish I had.  I freely admit that I am exhausted and quite frankly I am struggling a bit.  It is NOT "great for your morale," quite the contrary, and cutting back hours may not be an option if they have held your job for you and expect you back full time.  If you can work your way up to full-time hours gradually over a couple of weeks, that's what I would recommend.  As you say, you do not want to jeopardize your job.  As for moving sooner rather than later to avoid dwelling on how you'll cope, well that's some of the worst advice I've ever heard.  Your post shows that you are considering the implications of jumping back in and landing on your butt because you're not ready - very wise of you.  DO dwell on how you'll cope, your job may depend on it.  Good luck whatever you decide.  Let us know how it goes.

jd