How To Manage A Career & A Breast Cancer Diagnosis
A breast cancer diagnosis can bring your world to a halt. But for many of us, work becomes one of the few constants in an otherwise uncertain time. The tasks that we used to look at with dread now offer an escape and, in some ways, comfort.
This article is for those navigating the delicate balance between professional responsibilities and life-saving treatments. Working through treatment is possible, whether you’re maintaining health insurance, managing mounting expenses or simply craving a sense of normalcy — especially with the right support, tools and knowledge of your rights.
Can I Still Work During Treatment?
Yes. Absolutely. And for many of us at Thriving Beyond Breast Cancer, choosing to work offered emotional and financial stability in an otherwise chaotic time. Keeping a routine can help you feel grounded and maintain a sense of identity outside of your diagnosis.
For those with employer-sponsored insurance, continuing to work may also help you retain essential coverage.
“I remember being miserable from another round of treatment, lying on my couch. All I wanted to do was feel better. And if I couldn’t feel better, at least I could feel ‘normal’ by pursuing my career. That’s actually one of the first moments that I took tangible steps to start ‘Thriving Beyond Breast Cancer.”
-Bess Hagans, Chief Executive Officer of TBBC
Understanding Your Rights (FMLA, ADA & More)
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for medical reasons, including breast cancer treatment. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations, like adjusted work hours or modified duties, if you qualify.
However, not every workplace or employee is covered, so check your eligibility and consult with HR or an employment rights advocate. You don’t have to disclose everything about your diagnosis, but documentation from your healthcare provider may be required to access these benefits.
Can I Be Fired For My Diagnosis?
No. A breast cancer diagnosis does not give your employer permission to terminate you based on your health status. Federal laws like the ADA and the FMLA offer strong protections. If you’re eligible, these laws can ensure you have time off for treatment and that your job (or an equivalent one) is still waiting for you.
That said, it’s important to know:
- You can still be let go for reasons unrelated to your diagnosis, like company-wide layoffs or performance issues unrelated to your medical condition.
- Clear documentation is your best protection. Communicate openly, put everything in writing and keep a personal record of your treatment-related requests and responses.
- If you’re concerned about being treated unfairly, consider speaking with HR, a patient advocate or a legal professional specializing in workplace rights.
Note: This is not intended to be legal advice, but rather a foundation that helped us navigate our paths.
Questions To Ask Your Employer:
Consider having a conversation with your employer or HR representative even before treatment begins:
- What is our company’s medical leave or short-term disability policy?
- Can I temporarily reduce my hours or shift to part-time work while maintaining my insurance benefits?
- Do you offer flexible scheduling, remote work or hybrid options?
- Who do I speak with about reasonable accommodations?
- What paperwork is required to request medical leave or FMLA?
- Can I use sick time or vacation concurrently with medical leave?
- How will my benefits and insurance be affected if I take extended leave?
Managing Side Effects While Working
Chemotherapy and radiation can bring a host of physical and cognitive symptoms. Here are a few tips that may help:
- Keep snacks or mints handy to combat nausea
- Dress in layers to manage hot flashes or chills
- Use note-taking apps to manage chemo brain
- Build in short breaks to rest or stretch throughout the day
- Keep a “chemo kit” handy that contains the small comforts to keep you going
If symptoms become severe, do not push yourself past your limits. Seek medical advice, as this may be a sign of something more serious.
Remote Work, Flexibility & Schedule Tips
A flexible work environment can be a game-changer during treatment. If your role allows, ask about shifting to project-based tasks or adjusting deadlines around infusion days and rest periods. You might find that a hybrid schedule (even just working a few hours a day from home) helps you stay connected without overextending.
“I tell every woman I know who is going through this: Be honest with yourself & your team about what’s sustainable. You are not a burden for needing adjustments. You are going through something unimaginable by so many — & being productive while doing it.”
-Bess Hagans, Chief Executive Officer of TBBC
Preventing Burnout & Preserving Mental Health
It’s easy to hit a wall, even when your workplace is supportive. Burnout can creep in quickly, especially when you’re balancing appointments, side effects and responsibilities at home. And that chronic stress can promote cancer cell growth and development.
Here are a few ways to protect your energy:
- Set clear boundaries — including “off” hours for rest
- Ask for help when needed (colleagues, family, even task automation!)
- Build in one small daily ritual that’s just for you — not cancer, not work
And remember: Grit is not the same thing as ignoring your needs! Be gentle with yourself. Rest is also productive
Online Resources & Advocacy Tools To Help You
- Cancer and Careers (by CEW Foundation): Provides free educational webinars, workplace tools and a resume review service.
- Triage Cancer: Legal and financial resources, including info on insurance, employment rights and more.
- SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management): Offers HR-related insights and policy breakdowns relevant to employees and employers.
- Job Accommodation Network (JAN): A go-to resource for understanding workplace accommodations under the ADA.
Thriving Beyond Breast Cancer Is Here To Support You
TBBC is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting young women navigating a breast cancer diagnosis. Our greatest strength comes from lived experience — because we’ve been there! We can help you advocate for yourself in the workplace, with insurance companies and beyond.
Yes, a financial stipend can relieve an ample amount of stress. But knowing the right questions to ask can potentially ensure your entire treatment is covered. Through our growing network of trusted partners, you’ll also gain access to resources, guidance and support every step of the way.
What If Your Employer Does Not Offer Insurance?
If your job doesn’t offer health insurance — or if you’re self-employed, part-time or in a career gap — you still have options for coverage during treatment.
- Healthcare.gov Marketplace Plans: You may qualify for a low-cost plan (especially after a major life event like a cancer diagnosis or job change). Many plans cover chemo, surgery and follow-up care. Also, you can’t be denied coverage due to your diagnosis.
- Medicaid: Depending on your income and state, Medicaid can offer free or low-cost coverage. It’s worth checking eligibility even if you’re unsure. Many women we have spoken to are surprised to qualify during treatment.
- COBRA: If you had insurance through a previous employer, COBRA allows you to continue coverage (typically for 18 months) by paying the full premium. It can be expensive, but it’s a way to avoid gaps in care.
- Hospital Financial Assistance Programs: Many major hospitals offer income-based assistance or charity care, especially for uninsured patients. A hospital social worker or financial navigator can walk you through applications and available aid.
- Local & National Cancer Support Organizations: Groups like The Pink Fund, Patient Advocate Foundation and Susan G. Komen’s Treatment Assistance Program may help cover premiums, co-pays, or even daily expenses.
About The Author:
Bess Hagans is the CEO and co-founder of Thriving Beyond Breast Cancer. She is also a breast cancer thriver herself. Diagnosed at a young age, Bess experienced firsthand the overwhelming financial, emotional and logistical challenges that come with navigating treatment while trying to maintain a career, a home and a sense of self.
Today, she channels that experience into action, continuously educating herself on patients’ rights, insurance policies and workplace protections to ensure no woman has to face breast cancer uninsured or unsupported.
