Work

I am a 60 year old physician in internal medicine specializing in spinal cord medicine.  On August 9th I felt a lump on my L neck.  I had an FNA biopsy done the same day that has come back with metastatic P16+ squamous cell Ca.  Still awaiting final staging.  

I know a fair amount about cancer and have a idea from treating my own patients what a rough road is ahead of me.

I have lots of  questions but two that I am interested in right now as far as planning.  

I would be interested in knowing people's experience working during different stages of their treatment and when, if they did not work during any part of their treatment, they were able to return to work assuming remission or a cure.

I've learned alot from browsing through this MB.  I'd also like to know if their are other message boards or forums that are especially helpful.  

Thanks, DrK

DrK,

It has been some time since you posted.  I hope this reply has come with a positive treatment prognosis.  I am an almost 4 year survivor of squmous cell nasopharyngeal cancer.  I was not able to work during treatment because I was very nausiated during chemo.  By the time I was getting radiation, I was too weak and my immune system so comprimised that I did not want to risk being around all the people at work who may be sick.  I know suffer from a dry mouth which has caused me to have to reevaulate what kind of job I could do.  I am now back in school for medical office billing and coding.   Everyone reacts differently to the chemo.  Some have worked through the chemo, but had to take time off durring the radiation.  It depends on what type of work that you do.  You may wat to post on the head and neck option.  Most of the posts are all head and neck cancer related.  I hope you have had all your questions answered.  Please let me know how you are doing.

Paula