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Updating my skills during cancer treatment

3 replies

EvenLess · 19/01/2025 15:52

I was diagnosed with advanced Hodgkin's Lymphoma last year, and am currently undergoing chemo. I'm mostly feeling ok, and now the initial shock of my diagnosis has worn off I am looking at my CV with trepidation, as it's very holey for various reasons - health/trailing spouse/SAHM for a free years. I'd like to look around for a part time, possibly remote, role once my chemo is finished in a couple of months. I have an undergraduate and Masters degree in a humanities subject. I'm in my mid thirties with one DC.

In my last role, I worked for a helpline supporting family carers, and previously had a brief stint as a MH peer support worker, but had to leave the organisation as the safeguarding procedures weren't up to scratch and I quickly realised I would be in danger. I did enjoy the work, though. Before this, a SAHM for a few years, and various admin jobs before DC.

I left my last job due to childcare issues - their refusal of my flexible working request made it impossible to stay once DC started school, though I think I've got this issue sorted out now. I also knew by then I was unwell, though didn't know at that point I had cancer.

What would you do to turn things around and update my skills during this time? My IT skills probably need some work. I can afford to spend some money, but not thousands.

OP posts:
mumofoneAlonebutokay · 19/01/2025 16:27

Im sorry to hear you're dealing with cancer, op ❤️

Fingers crossed the treatment works swiftly and isn't too painful for you.

Im not sure why you want to update your CV, I'd be using this as an excuse to watch as much tv as poss!!! I'm guessing you want to keep yourself occupied though

Maybe learn a language? Always a great CV booster? xx

twointhemorning · 19/01/2025 16:46

I have cancer too (albeit a different one to yours). I don't have any advice on how to update your skills, but well done on looking ahead to the future after treatment. I was off work for about 18 months on sick leave. After about a year back at my old job I realised I still hated it and found a new job. I never thought when I'd been diagnosed 3 years later I'd be well enough to be working. During sick leave I threw away all my job hunting files and had to start from scratch!

Macmillan do a 'Hope' course which looks at life after cancer treatment has finished. There might be one running in your area. It's not about job hunting but you may find it helpful.

Cancer is classed as a disability under the Equality Act, so employers and training providers are not supposed to discriminate against you during the application process and you can request reasonable adjustments.

Newyeargymwanker · 19/01/2025 16:46

I went back to college and retrained as a painter and decorator during treatment for Breast Cancer. It was very very helpful having a goal that wasn’t cancer related.

i guess you need work it backwards? to decide what career goal you have and then what you need to get there.
What do you want to do?

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