Hello,
I am interested to hear other peoples experience of how CML has affected their work and careers.
I was diagnosed in my mid-30s 4 years ago. After taking several months of sick leave, I returned to work part time having previously been working full time. The diagnosis really affected me psychologically. I’m in a much better place mentally than I was at the start. However, I find that I get tired and achey easily. My job is intense and stressful and I’m not sure I could return to full time work. However, the mental space I’ve had to give to CML over the years has meant I’ve missed out on work opportunities and I now feel behind in my career compared to my peers. This initially didn’t bother me but it is starting to bother me more and more. I’m not sure where I should fall on that line between ‘I have CML, life’s for living, don’t kill yourself at work’ vs ‘you have a manageable illness, carry on as normal’.
How has everyone managed CML and work? Have you continued your same working patterns as pre-diagnosis? Has your perspective on work changed?
Many thanks for sharing your experiences.