It is no secret that when it comes to corporate America, people are replaceable. Women and even some men have to be very cautious when making their breast cancer diagnosis public knowledge in the workplace, for fear of management’s reaction–fear of being seen as less capable, fear of being the topic of workplace gossip, fear of being judged and most of all, fear of losing employment.
For some individuals, work may be what gets them through the breast cancer journey, keeping their mind focused on other things for a moment. For others, the workplace is what helps them afford the medications, therapies and other important healthcare interventions they need to continue their journey.
Breast cancer is hard enough to fight without any added adversities, but it makes the fight even harder when the workplace treats you as a robot instead of a human. So, how do you navigate breast cancer in an unforgiving workplace?
Be honest with your coworkers
Remember, you are the same workplace rockstar you have always been, but let’s be honest, somewhere, someone may be rooting for you to fail. Sadly, your shortcomings and fallacies become magnified with your co-worker sitting in the corner cubicle waiting for you to resign, so they can replace you. That type of co-worker only looks out for themselves, without concern for others. Don’t allow that to take away from the value you bring to the workplace or the profession.
Although you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, it still doesn’t define who you are. You are capable of living your life as normally as possible. You are capable of showing up as a professional. In the event you are no longer able to work or carry out your professional duties, professionals in the workplace should then assist you with the next step without making you feel “thrown away” or inadequate.
Nobody wants to be the topic of discussion, let alone their health! The sudden silence when you enter a room, the looks and the pats of pity on the back can be uncomfortable. I get it, but keep your head up. Since they want something to discuss, let it be how well you are doing. Let the gossip be how amazed they are that you are beating breast cancer. Do not be afraid to ask them if they have questions or if you could clarify anything. Sometimes, gossip starts with people sharing incorrect information. Not only can workplace gossip be damaging, but it will also defame those of good character and reputation.
Financial consequences are often considered during breast cancer care. In a world where prices are increasing and every penny has to be accounted for, some folks’ survival depends on them being able to make a paycheck just to afford the meds that keep them alive. Thankfully, there are organizations and foundations that recognize the financial hardships and can help ease the load. You may also want to consider suggesting to your company that they create a “wellness pool”–a pool of funds that can be used to help with costs when employees are experiencing financial hardship.
Learn more about helpful links and resources for breast cancer
Always put your health first
In an unforgiving workplace, you have employers and employees who will exhibit behaviors that contradict the smiles of the welcome wagon when you started your job. Since it’s your livelihood and income, here are a few things to do to combat the unforgiving workplace:
- Grant yourself grace, even if others don’t. You are a human, not a robot.
- Stand up for yourself. Document everything to ensure that you are treated fairly.
- Find and build allies. Not everyone is ill-willed and against you, so rebuild your workplace support circle.
- Know when it’s time to escalate. Harassment, discrimination or unethical treatment of any kind is unacceptable.
- Know when it’s time to leave. Though it would be ideal to keep your income, the truth is, it may be time to look for other employment, and that’s O.K. The main goal is to heal, recover and keep living life, despite your Breast Cancer journey.
Will there be hiccups? Yes. Is an unforgiving workplace easy to work in? No. If you are dealing with an unforgiving employer, let this be the motivation to choose you.
Only you can decide what that looks like and make moves and decisions to best accommodate your current situation. Remember, you are a human, not a robot, and if your needs aren’t respected or taken into consideration, then you may have to create a plan B.
Sign up here to get the latest news, perspectives, and information about breast cancer sent directly to your inbox. Registration is free and only takes a minute.