Returning to work

Emmyvan

Hi,

I have stage 2 TNIBC. I am receiving Chemo prior to surgery, ending in July. I am a frontline healthcare worker, a cat scan technologist who has direct contact with covid+ patients . I am currently on a 6 month leave, std provided by my employer. I don’t know why I didn’t give going back to work much thought, I guess I kiNd of assumed I’d be ready prior to the six months running out. I know that’s not reasonable now, my oncologist said I should stay out of work at least 12 weeks post chemo to give my body a chance to bounce back. I am fortunate enough that I can financially remain out of work for that amount of time.

Stupid question, what comes after std? I’m not sure my employer offers a long term disability plan. Would I qualify for federal disability? In the 20 years I’ve been working there, I was never out longer than 6 months. I’m at a loss

thanks

Castigame

Short answer is your body needs more than short term disability.

If you work for a good size company, chances are long term disability is available. LTD is usually 66% of base salary. Believe me it is worth it. Almost any company, your employer is not required to give you old job back after yr away. Ask HR.

I took a yr off using STD and LTD. It was necessary for me.

Moderators

Hi Emmyman,

In addition to the helpful advice from Castigame above, you may find it helpful to check out the main Breastcancer.org site's page on Taking Time Off Work for Treatment. It contains some good information on how to help carry over your benefits for extended leaves.

We hope this helps!

--The Mods