To be angry that no one will give me a chance, once I mention the C word....

[thinkivegottheplague]

I have just spent the last 18months beating Cancer. During that time, I worked through Chemo and Radiotherapy. I was determined the Cancer was not going to take over my life.

BUT I am now looking for a new job, as I feel it is time to move on. I have good references and am very well qualified. I never fail to get as far as an interview. But even when prospective employers have been super interested in me. As soon as I mention the health issues I had last year, they suddenly don't find me as appealing.

I am more than capable of doing my job, and let's face it none of us know what lies around the corner. So why won't people give me a chance. I know the only way round it is to not mention the Cancer, but in the job I do honesty is really important. But right now I just feel like I am being punished for having Cancer.

Thanks Andrewofgg I'm not a drinker but happy to join you with a &

I hope you continue to do well xx

Just a quick thought Plague, when are you disclosing, and why? I assume (and am probably wrong), that it will be a very basic application form or a 'submit your CV' scenario? In that case, completely keep quiet about it.

If you feel you want to be open, perhaps at interview, when they can see you are healthy and talk to you face to face would be best? Having said that, I don't think there is actually any reason for you to disclose at all.

I have only mentioned it once I have got to the 2nd interview! Prior to mentioning it they are very keen. I was mentioning it as I think it's good to be open and honest with families! But clearly on this occasion that's probably not true!

I suppose I am also concerned that my current employers might say something about me needing a few weeks off after surgery. But maybe I am over thinking things! Will definitely try the not mentioning it approach from now on!

I think it is difficult. I used to employ a nanny ( stopped when youngest child went to school) and when giving references was always asked how many days off x had had hit health reasons in the last year.

My nanny had had a bad run of health so we agreed how this would be addressed given that I also had to be accurate in references.

Can you stay at your current job for another 6 months or so? As it becomes less recent it will automatically be less of an issue and less likely to be raised by potential employers.