Return to work

My husband disclosed his.  It would have been hard to hide, though, given he had a subtotal rhinectomy....  his boss and he are close so that made it easier.  I think you should so they can weigh that in case you have performance issues related to treatment.  You don't want them to think it's something else.  Good luck. 

Depends who your talking to,  once you talk about it they will come back and talk some more Whether you like it or not.  For me, if it's someone I feel comfortable with then yes for others I just say I'm fine and change the subject.

I actually sent a mass e-mail to my boss and fellow employees describing my diagnosis, treatment plan and outcomes. This decreased the uneasiness of people wanting to know how you are but are afraid to ask. I also would discuss certain issues out loud if giving the chance as to not have to awnser all the same questions repeatedly. I think it put everyone including myself at ease.  

I'm in a bit of different situation. I technically work for myself..... but... I do a majority of my work for one business in our downtown. So much so that I maintain a small office there where I can do work for them and other clients. I'm a pretty open person. Plus, I had already been told that there would be no way of hiding the fact I'm sick. 

I personally don't want a veil of secrecy over something major going on in my life - it just adds to the drama and makes the whole thing seem more icky.

So, as soon as I had a diagnosis and treatment plan, I disclosed to 'my work.' But, i also did it with a very positive attitude (which is key because it sets the tone).

The office was great. The office manager (who's sorta a mom figure) made me a homemade "Happy Cancer Cake" and for two weeks the owner took myself and several others out to lunch anywhere I wanted as a "countdown to no more taste buds."

That may not work for everyone. But, for me and the office, it was perfect. There have been plenty of tears from them, but they always remind me that it's my positive joking attitude that makes it more bearable for them also.

Now that treatment it over for me, we are planning another round of office celebrations.

I'm two weeks out of treatment (this coming Tuesday) and I will return to work next week.

I was open about my diagnosis and treatment in my personal life but did not reveal it professionally. I'm a self employed IT consultant and did not see any benefit by having current and prospective clients know I just had Stage 4 SCC HNC BOT cancer. I only saw potential downside that I would be overlooked as they might worry about my health and ability to get work done under tight deadlines. The reasons many consultants get called is because there is trouble and need help under tough conditions. I can understand them seeing added risks by taking me on vs someone clear of serious past illness.