Talking about cancer at work

Want to keep working?

Sometimes, continuing work can be helpful as a useful distraction from the stress of having a child with cancer. Some parents see it as a time when they feel more in control. Being at work puts them in a world away from hospital trips and hospital stays.

What to say

At work, it is important to tell people only as much as you want to tell them. Be clear about how much you want to discuss your child’s illness. Some days, at work, and with family and friends, you may only need to say “We are fine”. Other days you may want to go into more detail with certain colleagues. Most people will understand this and respect your right to protect yourself.

Most employers are very understanding of the demands of having a child with cancer and are willing to allow parents to take leave – paid and sometimes unpaid. If you are having difficulty arranging time away from work, or if your employer needs documentation about your child’s condition, please speak to your child’s social worker.

Source: www.cancer.gov

La Fondation La Roche-Posay and CCI make every effort to ensure that information provided is accurate and up-to-date at time of printing. We do not accept responsibility for information provided by third parties, including those referred to or signposted to in this publication. Information in this publication should be used to supplement appropriate professional or other advice specific to your circumstances.