Tips for Returning to Work After Appendix Cancer Surgery, CRS & HIPEC

Our Pal Elizabeth has recuperated from CRS with HIPEC and is returning to her job soon. At a recent HOPE Zoom meeting, she asked her fellow Pals for helpful suggestions for returning to the office. Collectively, Pals offered the following suggestions:

Talk with Your Supervisor First

• Ask your supervisor for flexibility in your work schedule while you transition back into working life.
• If you can, start part-time and work your way back to a full day.
• Request remote work if possible.
• If you have a trusted relationship with your supervisor, share and explain some of your limitations or side effects of your recent surgery. However, you are under no obligation to explain your medical condition to your supervisor. Do what you feel will bring greater understanding of your work performance.
• Ask if there is a parking spot closest to the entrance that you can use short term.

Things to Bring with You

• Bring nutritious, high-protein, small meals and snacks to eat frequently throughout the day.
• Stay hydrated.
• For women, consider carrying a smaller, lighter handbag.
• Dress comfortably. When selecting shoes, choose safety and comfort over style. Consider your pants –  waistbands with drawstrings or elastic may provide more comfort. Skirts and dresses may be more comfortable but skip the tights and pantyhose.
• If you have diarrhea, nausea, or other side effects, stock your desk drawer with those medications which address those issues. Don’t get caught unprepared for something that you could easily remedy at home.

At the Office

• Be realistic about what you can accomplish during the day.
• Bring hand sanitizer and Lysol to work with you, and use them.
• Avoid anyone who has a cold or a cough!
• Be careful about lifting anything heavy. Your surgeon will advise you of weight limitations.
• Raise your feet under your desk, if possible.
• Ask for assistance in opening heavy doors.
• Don’t forget that commuting takes energy, too. Be sure you have the stamina to drive home after a long day.
• If you find yourself becoming tired over what were previously routine tasks, like walking from the parking lot or from one building to another, pace yourself.

Remember that your body is still healing, and allow yourself extra time for routine tasks, if needed. Your colleagues and co-workers will be happy to see you back on the job and will likely want to assist you in any way they can…let them!