Going back to work

Posted , 5 users are following.

I have robotic surgery 6 weeks ago. I had my cervix, ovaries,fallopian tubes and uterus removed plus a bladder collapsed fixed. The uterus collapsed as well. My bladder was fixed using my own tissue.It wasn't as painful as I expected considering I had a pinched urethra and was having severe bladder issues. Plus I had 3 cysts and 3 tumors that were pre cancerous. I'm being told I have no choice but to go back to work tonight in fact. I don't have an easy job. I lift, push and pull heavy objects. I worry about standing all 8 hours working in the factory. But I have to work. I've been lucky and receiving short term disability checks. But I'm losing money. We had 2 floods during recovery in my basement adding to stress and I wasn't able to lift anything. I had to beg for help cleaning it up and everything else. Now I have no washer and dryer so using the laundry mat requires help. I'm now allowed to lift at 6 weeks so it might be easier now. I'm nervous and scared that I'm being pushed way too soon and something will collapse again. But I have no choice but to return or loose my job. Anyway i also have severe arthritis in my hands and feet and fibromyalgia that is very severe. I've had it for 24 years. Why do I work? I'm stubborn and can't make enough on disability to raise my kids. Yes I'm hurting but sometimes we just toughen up when there's no choice. Frankly I do feel these doctors don't listen to the patient or what's best for them. The 6 weeks is what's given I was told no matter what. If there are complications I guess you argue for more. Here's what I had so far. After the surgery I bleed pretty good. By week one this orange fluid began rushing and I mean rushing out like a heavy period it was soaking pads and gushing yet my doctor didn't that concerned. I went in for my one week checkup and he said I don't know what that is. I wasn't relieved by that response and very upset. Come to find out my auto immune was causing fluid to fill the empty space. Yes I was leaking lymphatic fluid mixed with red blood cells. After 2 weeks it slowed I'm still spotting but barely after 6 weeks. My vagina would get sudden stabbing pains I developed 2 uti infections. I had lumps in the scars and soreness. Wearing pants was hard. Even pajamas hurt if they had elastic. I had trouble going number 2 and still need 2 daily stool softners.sometimes I get severe pain with movements and vomit but that doesn't concern him either. So tonight I return to work. I hope all goes well please pray for me.

1 like, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi tish.... wow you poor thing what you've been through sounds awful.. I certainly don't think you should be returning to work as it sounds like a heavy job never mind just after surgery!!!! I'm pre op and dreading the recovery afterwards I'm really crossing my fingers nothing serious happens to you in your return to work thoughts and prayers with you xx

  • Posted

    Tish, do NOT go back to work.  I fear you will be in an even worse state than you are now.  I would say you need 3 months off work and then how you'd cope with a heavy lifting job I dread to think.  Sorry to be harsh but best you get fit for your kids and try and manage on a low income than risk your health even further.  PLEASE take care.

  • Posted

    Tish, I am so sorry to learn all that you're going through.  Please know that I am praying for you!  xx

  • Posted

    Trish, I think you know you're not ready for work but don't know what to do. Is there anyone who can help you? A relative or friend? You need emotional support to give you the energy to change your incompetent GP (or see someone else in the practice, perhaps female?). Are you in the U.K.? There is some provision for extended sickness accompanied by  doctor's note. If you go back too soon you may well wind up in a worse situation and having to take much more time off. There is also the question of how long you can carry on with this job. I am so sorry that you're having to deal with these anxieties on top of having a major operation. Please take care of yourself and please let us know how things go. Big hug.

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