Don't have the job yet, but had second interview today. Didn't even think I'd be selected for a first interview and here we are, a day later, and it very much looks like a job MIGHT be on offer as they've already checked my references too.
I applied thinking I'll never get it, so figured no need to worry about the LITTLE things like chronic Lyme disease getting in the way!!
But, seriously, it's pretty much crunch time financially. If I don't get a job then continued LLMD treatment might go bye-bye OR I take a risk and risk a decline in health brought on by a 40-hour week and some level of stress I'm not used to in exchange for money that will enable me to carry on treatment......On average I'm about 70% well/functional compared to maybe 25% 5 years ago. So, I only have to take to my bed maybe once a week on average now and hopefully, if I get a job, I'll have to make sure that is confined to weekends!
What's the best thing to do here? (assuming they offer me the job)?
I DID declare on the application form, when they outright asked me if I had any medical conditions and if if so, was I being treated and if so, what is treatment.......I wrote that I have "tickborne disease" and that the treatment is "antibiotics".
I didn't go into ANY more details than that, and in 2 interviews they have not asked me. I was going to bring it up today, but stopped myself as I figured it would get me right out of a job offer if there is going to be one. I did ask them though "is there anything I've said now or on my application, or NOT said that you have any questions about"?? And, they did not have any. So, I think I have sort of covered it and given them the chance to ask, rather than come right out and perhaps say more than I need to about my illness.
If I get too ill, I'll just have to quit, but didn't think it was a good idea to pre-emt the possibility as why would they hire me then.
I did ask though, as I have a 12 year old child, whether - as I had declared I was flexible on application for to work some weekends - if they were flexible about me working from home perhaps 2-3 afternoons a week so my daughter's not on her own every day after school till 5.45pm (from 4pm). They said that's fine....
How have others found it if you jumped into a full-time job before you felt that you were perhaps not well enough really???? Has it worked out?
DLL
[ 11. January 2008, 10:57 AM: Message edited by: dontlikeliver ]
Posted by Andie333 (Member # 7370) on :
DDL,
This is pretty exciting news...and it gives you a lot to think about.
This time last year, I was doing periodic contract work for a major company, when they approached me about coming on in a full-time capacity.
At first, I really didn't think I was ready to do that--physically, mentally or emotionally. But, like you, there were so many financial pressures, and I'd already burned through retirement and mtg. money. I also let people know I'd been sick with Lyme--at least my two immediate bosses. And I told them I still have LLMD appts and some pesky symptoms.
They were concerned but still kept the offer. I started work on Jan 15th and am still there.
For me, it's been a really good decision. I'm not young, nor am I accustomed to being in an office environment (I've been freelancing for years), so 40 hrs a week was a HUGE adjustment. I can say it's really taken me this whole year to feel comfortable...but even so, I've never regretted taking the job.
The financial benefit alone is incredible! plus, no longer having to worry about paying medical insurance. I think I've had to stretch to do this, and that's been a good thing. (as a note, I did turn down a mgt offer, for a staff position, and I'm really glad I did that, too...less stress).
Being up and going out, I am no longer focused so completely on being sick. My dept is pretty healthy, so I've had to step to there, too. in all this year, I took 3 sick days--not bad.
It's something you have to really think about...and only you know your circumstances. For me, though, it's a decision I'm glad I made!
Andie
Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
Andie that's great to hear.
Like you, it's financial pressure but also the fact that apart from being sick, I'm bored. I want to be normal again. I want to pretend I'm like everyone else. I want to have a 'real job'. Like you, I'm not sure I'm physically ready but the alternative might be not enough money to continue LLMD and meds = worse health + no money still.
I want to focus on something else than being sick. Not that I focus on that, but you know what I mean, I want a distraction. (just hope I can handle it).
I hate to disappoint others and myself and, I set high standards for myself. And, I'm also worried about that as bringing on major relapse. But, if I don't risk it I don't even have the chance to gain anything.
Anyway, I might not even get it, but I know I'm in top 2 for sure. They're worried I'm overqualified, and I am, but I don't care about that. I live in a part of the world now where there is no Madison Avenue or Wall Street - it's slim pickings here and in 11 years here I have seen only a handful of jobs I was genuinely vaguely interested in.
I hope I do get it and think it's time for some risk-takign in exchange for $$$$!!
Posted by CaliforniaLyme (Member # 7136) on :
I hope you get it too!! I went back to work full time years back and was worried I would relapse but instead it just invigorated me more, it was so great to be in that world again!!! I hope the same for you- I hope you get it*)!!! Let us know! Best Getting-the-Job Wishes, Sarah
Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
Thanks Sarah!
Posted by merrygirl (Member # 12041) on :
Good Luck!!
You sound really excited. I hope you get it!
Let us know ok??
MElissa
Posted by pineapple (Member # 11904) on :
"I DID declare on the application form, when they outright asked me if I had any medical conditions and if if so, was I being treated and if so, what is treatment.......I wrote that I have "tickborne disease" and that the treatment is "antibiotics". "
O My! I can't believe they asked that on the application form!!! That is totally illegal!
If they ask you any more questions about it prior to offering you a job you do NOT have to answer. You just have to be able to do the job, so you can ask for a job description and tell them that you feel you are able to do what the job requires.
Good luck! I hope you get the job and it works out well for you!
Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
In this country, it's still legal and if you don't answer you'll of course look suspicious.
But, I totally agree. When I first moved here I was (and still am) totally outraged by the questions they ask on applications.
10 years ago, they would ask heigh/weight, etc and very personal questions, but they don't ask that anymore (but they do ask race and religion for "equal opportunity purposes"....... But, the medical thing is SUPPOSED to be so they can HELP you by accommodating you by for example, buying you a special chair if you have a bad back, etc....although personally I think it's more to be able to single you out.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
Congratulations!! I hope you get it!! Posted by Andie333 (Member # 7370) on :
DLL.
Please keep us posted.
I hope this works out for you!!!!!!
Andie
[ 20. December 2007, 07:57 AM: Message edited by: Andie333 ]
Posted by bettyg (Member # 6147) on :
WHOOPIE DLL! hope it works out for you! Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
Thanks guys.
Whatever's meant to be, will be. I should know by Friday afternoon. Will update the thread.
I hope I get it, but there are at least a couple of days a month when I feel very ill, in the mornings especially, with being weak, sweaty and generally feeling really ill.......that's what scares me...how do I suddenly stop getting that so I can go to work!! lol fingers crossed.
Posted by Robin123 (Member # 9197) on :
I went through this experience of accepting a full-time job when I had no idea my health problem was Lyme. I also desperately needed money and insurance coverage. The job was invigorating and exciting, involving a national headquarters of a major organization. Looking back on it, I'm so glad I had the experience of being there.
And...I was going to the chiropractor every morning, resting in the lounge on my breaks, holding my head...eventually they came to me and said they'd give me three months off to go to pt and get better. And of course we know where that led.
I say go ahead and wing it. You'll know to make the modifications you may need to make along the way.
Yes, it's normal to do work, but still, now I know I'm not normal like normal folks. We're normal like Lyme folks. So to accept our kind of normal instead of the well world's is important to do internally. They can run for a bus and dash up and down escalators. I used to; I don't now. I take my time. When I'm there, then I'm there. Not before. Our pace is slower. We make modifications.
So in England, it's ok to ask for health details on a job application?
Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
quote:Originally posted by Robin123: We're normal like Lyme folks. So to accept our kind of normal instead of the well world's is important to do internally. They can run for a bus and dash up and down escalators. I used to; I don't now. I take my time. When I'm there, then I'm there. Not before. Our pace is slower. We make modifications.
So well put!
Yes, on all the applications I've filled in so far it asks if I have any medical conditions I am under the care of a doctor for, what are they and, what is the treatment.
So, to avoid the question will just make me looks suspicious anyway.
It is supposedly done for equal opportunity purposes and employers are legally obliged (I think) to make adjustments to accommodate someone who is qualified for the job and has a disability - the best example being if you have a bad back, they have to buy you a chair that suits you, etc. Maybe for Lyme I can ask for a bed in the office......... But, although technically that is the purpose of the questioning, I am sure it is rather used to sort the bad eggs from the good ones and just chuck away the resumes from sick people. Who's gonna know?
DLL
Posted by CaliforniaLyme (Member # 7136) on :
Still hoping for you-!!! Fingers crossed*)!
Posted by merrygirl (Member # 12041) on :
When will you know??????????
Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
Thanks.
They said they will let me know by end of the week. Not sure if they meant that it will be in writing, in which case a letter wouldn't get here till next week, or by phone.
Posted by savebabe (Member # 9847) on :
I say go for it!!!!
Please keep us posted. Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
Just got the call..........and
I've got a job!!!!
Can't believe it. Now just got to make sure I don't feel sick!! Does involve some travel too.
DLL
Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
Oh, and THANKS for all your support!
All you other full-time working Lymies will be my inspiration.
Posted by kam (Member # 3410) on :
I sure hope it works out for you and turns out to be good for your health.
Congratulations.
Posted by CaliforniaLyme (Member # 7136) on :
YAY!*)*!) !*)!)*!!
I was terrified I would relapse going back to work full-time but it was just awesome, made me feel MORE vital and alive- I hope the same for you*)!!! I am SO glad for you!! I truly crossed my fingers for you*)!*! YAY*)!
Nice to read!
Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
Sarah,
How recovered percentage-wise were you when you went back?
Posted by CaliforniaLyme (Member # 7136) on :
I was 99%.
But still chronic meaning that if I stayed up late or went dancing all night (just an example haven't done that since I was young*) (truly have stayed up READING many nights though!!) I would pay for it the next day with achey joints!!! I was scared I would get worse again. Because I ended up getting put on some night shifts where I had to stay up all night! But I didn't get bad again and I mainly worked days and it was good. I just pampered myself like crazy off-work when I knew I was pushing it at work!!! It worked*)!
Posted by merrygirl (Member # 12041) on :
Very happy for you! Congrats!@!@
MElissa
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
COOL!!! Posted by Geneal (Member # 10375) on :
You'll do great!!!!
Pace yourself. Treat yourself to some extra special something.
That is wonderful. You can do it!
Hugs,
Geneal
Posted by Robin123 (Member # 9197) on :
Congrats! Just be prepared to modify as needed. I went through the fulltime job thing without knowing I was dealing with Lyme. It was a combo of do-the-job, and now it's time for me to lie down. Eventually, they came to me and said they wanted me to take three months off to get well. So what will be will be. All we can do is try our best. At least you know what you're dealing with.
Posted by Andie333 (Member # 7370) on :
This is absolutely wonderful news!!!
I'm so happy for you.
When I took a fulltime job, I wasn't quite as well as Sarah was; in fact, I'd still rate my health at about 80%. But as she said, working has helped me feel a sense of purpose. And it's really revitalized me.
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!
Andie
Posted by Parisa (Member # 10526) on :
Congratulations DLL!
My husband was in and out on disability for over a year and a half. It finally got to the point that he'd have to retire (at only 30% of his salary) and pay for COBRA (health benefits) so he went back to work. Luckily, his employer knows he's sick.
He takes things slow at work (very hard for his ego) and rests as much as possible at lunch time and breaks. We're looking into putting a recliner into his office so he can take a real good nap.
He comes home exhausted and sleeps/rests alot on the weekends but he no longer has the stress that we're sinking into a black hole financially. He usually works at home on Fridays to give him an extra day of rest.
Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
Well, it's the eve of starting my new job and I have had a major, major relapse and been in bed trying to get over it (to no avail).
Do I need to say it - I'm petrified. Petrified of making relapse worse/irreparable damage, failing, letting others down. A month ago I was feeling much better and thought I might be ready for this, then now at the worst time, BAM. Got really bad a week ago after 2 evening functions to go to, and major shopping spree for work clothes.
It is because over the last year or more, I have not been on a proper protocol because I have consistent stomach problems, partly self-induced due to not adhering to diet. So, again had to come off for the gazillionth time last week and only on proton pump inhibitor now. Have been on off Ceftin more times than I care to think about. Every time I tried Biaxin and Doxy got either major stomach pain (I mean intolerable) or with Doxy went to ER with intolerable persistent headaches. Now LLMD wanted me to start Rifampin, but haven't been able to add it as stomach felt it was enough with the Ceftin!! Plus was too scared of Rifampin, so was happy to procrastinate with it.
Am off-balance, chills, have temp and when not have temp have hot flushes, "meltdown" waves as I call them (feeling like going to collapse), twitching like crazy, internal tremor and profound fatigue and weakness. Plus a new sx since yesterday, a weird painless abdominal cramp/tightening that is combined with an "adrenal sinking feeling" - anyone ever had that?? Also got it after taking a Sudafed and again after Benadryl, but also got it when had not taken anything, so not sure if related.
Of course, am good with diet NOW, but wasn't soon enough. Recently did 3 weeks Diflucan again, but then it was Christmas and visitng relatives for 10 days and being fed all kinds of things I should have said "no thanks" to.
Also did too much while feeling pretty good, and not resting enough.
Posted by Vermont_Lymie (Member # 9780) on :
DLL, take it easy today, and good luck!
I thought I had a major relapse in the last 2 weeks; but it turned out that I was just coming down with a bad cold/flu.
Finally, the cold came out and now I feel better (apart from herxing, because I am ramping up on mino). I hope that in your case also that it is not a relapse.
Get lots of rest today.....
Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
Thanks.
Been resting about a week and not improved.
Posted by Robin123 (Member # 9197) on :
Hi -- good luck with your job tomorrow. I think it would be helpful to cut yourself some slack, if you're still reacting to falling off your diet in December. Plus a lot of people get sick anyways during the wintertime. So try to relax and hang on and see if you get any better. I was always trying to find ways to make it work out when I was dealing with a full-time job, even disappearing into the rest area from time to time as needed.
Posted by jennyflyer (Member # 12792) on :
DLL, if you truly don't feel better than don't push yourself.
I know easier said than done because bills don't stop coming in.
Try it and if you really feel like you physically can't do it, listen to your body and hold off for a while longer.
You won't be doing yourself any good in the long run.
Posted by sometimesdilly (Member # 9982) on :
Please let us know how the first day back to work went, DLL.
dilly
Posted by yourtroubl (Member # 11087) on :
Just wondering how it went. I have gotten much better being back to work too. But Lyme does make you a different person.
Posted by dontlikeliver (Member # 4749) on :
For the first two days at my new job, I had nothing to do as the three people/directors I was to work with were out of the office at their other office in Plymouth, so I didn't see them until this morning. In the meantime, some of the other staff showed me some general stuff.
I am laughing as I write this, because it's just too `bizarre' and `hysterical' and I can't quite believe it. But, one of them asked me to come into his office Wed morning whent hey were back, where he proceeded to tell me that while they (the 3 Directors) all were away at the other office, they had received their financial figures for the year and they were not good. In fact, they were very bad and, therefore, they were `extremely embarrassed' to have to say that I could not have the job after all as there was no money for it/no job.
Apparently, the `axing' isn't ending with me who'd hardly even began and had not even spent a day there with the actual people I was to work with. As I said, this is the first day I was supposed to REALLY start as they were back at work.
I have never experienced anything like this and although I believe they're genuine (they also showed me the financial reports they'd been given by their accountants), it's unbelievable that top management are not aware of the true state of their finances!
So, I tried to turn it into another opportunity by offering to work freelance on a part-time basis for them. They are going to discuss it among themselves/and accountants and then get back to me this week. If not, they said the job may be available again in the new financial year - after April. So, who knows, this could have been a BLESSING in disguise! Even so, I felt a bit 'gutted'.
They are paying me for this week and next week though at least to make up for it a bit.
So, it's ironic that a week ago I was terrified of letting THEM down due to my relapse/illness and they ended up letting ME down.
DLL
[ 11. January 2008, 10:57 AM: Message edited by: dontlikeliver ]
Posted by on :
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in the office......... But, although technically that is the purpose of the questioning, I am sure it is rather used to sort the bad eggs from the good ones and just chuck away the resumes from sick people. Who's gonna know?![[woohoo]](graemlins/woohoo.gif)
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