Back to Business: A Guide to Workforce Development After Breast Cancer

Finishing breast cancer treatment is a massive milestone. You’ve navigated the appointments, the side effects, and the emotional rollercoaster. But as the "medical" part of the journey shifts into the background, a new question often pops up: "What do I do about work?"

Perhaps you’re looking to return to the job you had before, or maybe you’ve realized that your old 9-to-5 doesn't fit your new perspective on life. Whether you’re a survivor looking for a fresh start or an employer wanting to support a returning team member, navigating the professional world after a diagnosis can feel a bit overwhelming.

At I Will Survive, Inc., we’ve seen firsthand that a diagnosis isn’t the end of a career, it’s often just the beginning of a new chapter. We’re in this together, and we want to make sure you have every tool you need to thrive in the workforce.

The Reality of Returning to Work

It’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety about heading back to the office. Research shows that only about half of survivors return to work immediately, often taking about seven months to make that transition. The hurdles are real, fatigue, "chemo-brain," and the fear that the cancer might come back are common concerns.

However, we also know that returning to work is linked to better overall survival and a higher quality of life. Work provides routine, social connection, and a sense of purpose. If you're feeling a bit foggy or tired, remember that these are hurdles, not stop signs.

For the Job Seeker: Finding Your New Path

If you’re ready to jump back into the workforce but aren’t sure where to start, Atlanta and the surrounding areas have some incredible resources. You don't have to figure this out on your own. We’ve gathered a list of programs designed to help you sharpen your skills or even pivot to a brand-new career.

1. Atlanta Technical College

If you’ve been thinking about a career change, Atlanta Technical College offers several tuition-free programs. This is a fantastic way to gain high-demand skills without the stress of student debt. From healthcare to technology, these programs are designed to get you career-ready quickly.

2. Grow With Google

Technology moves fast. If you’ve been out of the loop for a while, Grow With Google offers flexible, online training for high-growth fields like IT Support, Data Analytics, and Project Management. These certifications are recognized by top employers and can be completed at your own pace, perfect if you’re still managing your energy levels.

3. Murray Career Institute

For those who want to enter or advance in the medical field, Murray Career Institute provides specialized training for CNAs, Phlebotomy, Pharmacy Technicians, and more. Their hands-on approach is great for survivors who want to give back to the healthcare community.

4. Strive

Strive offers programs focused on Logistics, Inventory Control, and Business Administration. They don’t just teach technical skills; they also provide intensive career coaching and job placement support to ensure you’re truly ready for the modern workplace.

5. Westside Works

If your passion lies in culinary arts, construction, or IT, Westside Works is a community-based program that offers high-quality training and employment opportunities. It’s a great example of how local support can bridge the gap between training and a steady paycheck.

For the Experienced Professional (Ages 55+)

Career development doesn’t have an expiration date. If you’re a survivor over the age of 55, there are specific programs tailored to your experience and unique needs.

• SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program): This program, managed by the Department of Labor, helps older workers get back into the workforce through paid community service assignments. It’s a great way to refresh your skills while getting paid.
• AARP Atlanta: Our local AARP chapter is a goldmine for networking, job boards, and community resources specifically for those navigating career changes later in life.

For the Aspiring Entrepreneur

Sometimes, a diagnosis makes you realize that you’d rather work for yourself. If you’ve been dreaming of starting a small business, SCORE offers free business mentoring and education. They can pair you with a mentor who has been there and done that, helping you turn your vision into a reality.

For the Employer: Building a Supportive Workplace

If you’re an employer, you might be wondering how to best support a team member returning after breast cancer. It seems we can't stress enough how much your support matters. When survivors feel they are treated fairly and supported by their organization, they are much more likely to succeed and stay loyal to the company.

Simple steps can make a world of difference:

• Flexible Scheduling: Recovery isn't linear. Offering flexible hours or work-from-home options helps survivors manage fatigue and follow-up appointments.
• Clear Communication: Check in regularly. Ask what they need, rather than assuming.
• Ergonomic Adjustments: A comfortable chair or a standing desk can help manage physical discomfort.

Supporting a survivor isn't just about being kind, it’s about retaining a resilient, skilled, and dedicated employee.

More Local Help in Atlanta

Beyond specific training, several organizations offer broad workforce support:

• Goodwill: They offer an extensive PDF guide of job resources that covers everything from resume writing to interview prep.
• The Urban League: Their Workforce Development programs provide education and training to help people achieve economic self-reliance.

We’re Here to Help You Thrive

At I Will Survive, Inc., our mission is to provide the support that families need to stay stable during and after a cancer journey. We know that financial stability is a huge part of that. Whether you’re looking for support services or you’re an employer looking to partner with us, we’re here to facilitate these connections.

If you’re feeling a bit lost in the shuffle, perhaps you’d like to reach out to us directly. We can help guide you toward the resources that fit your specific situation. You can always get in touch with us or check out our blog for more tips on navigating life post-diagnosis.

Takeaways for Your Journey

• Be Patient with Yourself: Recovery takes time. Your "work stamina" will return, but it’s okay if it doesn't happen overnight.
• Use the Resources: Whether it’s Grow With Google or Atlanta Tech, these programs are designed for you. Use them!
• Communication is Key: If you’re an employee, talk to your boss. If you’re an employer, talk to your team.
• It’s Never Too Late: Whether you’re 25 or 65, there’s a path forward for your career.

Your career journey doesn't have to stop because of breast cancer. In many ways, the resilience you've gained during treatment is your newest and most valuable professional skill.

Ready to take the next step?
If you’d like to help us continue providing these resources to survivors in our community, please consider making a donation. Every bit helps us keep families stable and moving forward. If you’re looking for more ways to get involved, why not look into becoming an intern or even joining our board?

Let’s get back to business together.