Return and life at work You’ve been affected by cancer. How do you prepare your return to work? Going back to work is something you can really look forward to, but while you may want to go back, you may not have the energy to do so. “The occupational physician helped me understand that it wasn’t the right time for me to return to work. It was hard but I know he was right.” “I went back for three days a week. It was a good way to avoid overdoing it and burning myself out.” Depending on the length of absence and the severity of treatment, the return to work is often done on a part-time basis. Starting at your own pace gives your body time to rebuild its strength. Gradually, you can increase your working time. Important: Prepare for your return to work. A pre-resumption visit with your occupational physician can help you decide the right time to return. The occupational physician can recommend a functional or organisational adjustment to your position so that you can return under the best possible conditions. When you’re sure that you’re going to return, inform your manager and HR manager. To make the right adjustments, they need to know how you feel and what you’re able to do. The big day: You know the date of your return to work. It’s an important day for you. You may be wondering whether you’re still part of the team, how they’ll see you, or how you’ll be received. “When I came back, I didn’t want a celebration. I was too emotional. I went to my office straight away. When I felt up to it, I went to see people one at a time.” Your colleagues and manager may behave awkwardly, even if they mean well. Being open about what you want makes it easier for them to prepare for your return. For example, you may or may not want to talk about your illness, you may want to meet for breakfast, or you may prefer to return quietly. 10