My Dad was diagnosed 2 months ago, and only given approximately 3 months to live. Here we are, in month 3, and my dad has now been hospitalized, since his pain level could no longer be managed at home. I'm completely consumed by this, and finding it very difficult to cope. I've told my boss of my situation, and he's been very understanding. He's been allowing me to take time when I need to, as well as turning a blind eye when I leave a little early to go visit my dad in the hospital. I also often arrive late, as sleeping now seems a thing of the past.
My concern here is my coworkers. Many of them do not know why my schedule seems so non-committal, and why my boss seems so lenient with me. I can't help but feel that they are beginning to resent these things, as a few of them are starting to make snyde remarks. I am the only girl in my department, and my attendance at work truly affects no one else, as I am actually my own department. This means that when I am not here, my coworkers are not ANY busier, nor do any of them have to do my work. I've discussed this with my boss, who insists that I need to do what's right for me, and that I'm not obligated to answer to anyone but him.
It's hard for me to talk about my dad's condition without getting very emotional (keep in mind, my coworkers are all men) as well, I feel like this is somewhat private. Do I tell them, so that they will lay off the commentary, and risk guilting them all (which I don't think is necessary), or do I suck up the frustration I feel when remarks are made? Does anyone else out there have trouble functioning at work? This is all still quite new to me, and I'm sure it will get easier, but when?
Kylie