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Did you disclose to employer?


Sun, June 21, 2015 11:24 AM

Hi. I have UC and it's been in remission 7 years until a month ago. It's getting worse, but I started back on meds and was scoped for my 10 year anniversary (cancer screen due to bleeding & 10 year history), had biopsies. The first time I had UC 10 years ago, it lasted 6 mos and was a nightmare at work. I told NO ONE. I am debating whether or not to share with my boss this tme. I am a nurse, and so is she. The reason I am thinking of disclosing, is I am an excellent employee with on one sick call in 2 years in this job, and I might be sick and unable to work if I can't get it in check.I am thinking of disclosing, but not sure if I should keep it vague and just tell her I have a condition for which I am getting treatment, vs telling my diagnosis. She is not the type to gossip, so I know she would keep it private. I mainly just want her to know I am still dedicated to my job, but I am having major health issues. Just curious as to what others have done? Not sure if it is wise to give detail or not. I could use some support, and I am a very dedicated worker. Thanks in advance for your input!

FPO momof2girls
Joined Jun 21, 2015

Fri, July 31, 2015 3:38 PM

 Reply posted for momof2girls.

I've had to miss a few weeks of work a year since being diagnosed 2007. It's no secret. I start feeling sick, end up incapacitated, and come back to work much skinnier. Everyone is understanding. Some people need to be educated about the disease because I don't look sick. But with one Web search it's pretty clear that it's a real thing. So since you work in the medical field I would hope they would be understanding too.

FPO beachliving
Joined Dec 8, 2014

Mon, July 27, 2015 11:30 AM

 Reply posted for momof2girls.

i disclose and carry fmla for intermittent flares.i have also in past got reasonable acomodation to use restroom as frequently as needed and to have my desk closest to restroom as well. whether it's right or wrong thing to disclose, i have rights, and i can't help or plan ahead for flares, if they *** understand, at least my job is safe.

FPO brandydelight
Joined Jun 13, 2015

Sun, July 26, 2015 8:42 PM

 Reply posted for momof2girls.

I completely agree with the previous reply.

Disclosing at the start is a sign of respect and is beneficial to both you and the employer. On your side, theres less fear of losing your hard-earned reputation, and on the employers side they have a chance to prepare for any consequences of your illness.

I have a letter from my doctor in my file, its fairly vague but it does provide me a legal basis for accommodations (in my case extra break time) in case there ever were to be an issue. So far my employer has been very understanding.

Good luck!

FPO mrsgali
Joined Sep 24, 2013

Sun, July 26, 2015 7:45 PM

 Reply posted for momof2girls.

You should absolutely tell your employer if your disease is going to affect your work, and it doesn't sound like you have to be afraid about being somewhat open about it. As someone who used to be in the position of an employee going through flare-ups, and now a manager of a large team, you need to be proactive in letting them know what you're going through, and come with a plan on how you are going to deal with it and mitigate any absences from work or challenges in getting through the day. It sounds like you are already a model employee, so don't let your record get hurt by your pride! A truly good employee helps their employer understand circumstances impacting work, and gives their employer a chance to help them in return.

FPO ria75
Joined Aug 23, 2014

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