Working during chemo

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Wisner1558
Wisner1558 Member Posts: 7
edited April 2017 in Chemotherapy - Before, During, and After

Hi,

I am a 3rd grade teacher who is starting chemotherapy in April. I was wondering if there are any teachers out there who were able to continue teaching. My Onco is worried about all the germs that I would be exposed to….was wondering if anyone could advice.

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  • MinusTwo
    MinusTwo Member Posts: 16,634
    edited April 2017

    I made it a point to stay away from all crowds and particularly children. Since my white cells went so low during chemo, I generally wore a mask when I went out too. Many people do work but I didn't want to take the chance.

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  • Felloco1
    Felloco1 Member Posts: 22
    edited April 2017

    hi there

    I work in an open plan office and am half way through chemo.... office is a definite no go the germs just circulate around the air con ! My BC nurse & once were really clear it's not worth the risk .... it could be very dangerous at worst as you may end up in hospital with an infection or have your treatment delayed... it's really frustrating as I would rather be at work but I have come accept I need to focus on getting well and through this stage of treatments and think about work / working from home later . You really need to look after you at the moment...x

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  • Midwest_Laura
    Midwest_Laura Member Posts: 168
    edited April 2017

    I worked throughout my chemo treatments.  This included frequent airline travel.  I never wore a mask, but was always very cautious about germs in my vicinity and particularly while eating.  Hand sanitizer was my best friend!  I always received a Neulasta shot after each chemo treatment via the on-body version.  Throughout the chemo treatments, my WBC was at the top of the standard range and actually better than where I started.  The Neulasta was a mild hassle, but it kept me healthy and I am grateful for it. 

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  • mistyeyes
    mistyeyes Member Posts: 584
    edited April 2017

    I finished Chemo March 23rd and I worked through out the whole treatment - but I work in an open office environment, when people had a cold or whatever - they did stay away from me and I did not work with children. If I had a tired afternoon, I could kind of sloth off a bit, but working with children there is no slothing off. I think work helped some because it kept my mind busy and maybe if I were home all day I would be having cancer on my brain all the time. Best of luck whatever you decide.

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