I was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer in 2004.  I was upper management and had not been in my job for more than 12 months so I was forced to take disability, which I fortunately had purchased through my employer.  I have been in SS disability and private insurance since then.

 

I attempted to return to work once during this time and because of the small community I lived in, most people knew I had cancer and I did not get the job and I am sure that is the reason, even though it was the local hospital where I was treated.

 

I am now 61 and stable with only bone mets and would like to work at least part time if possible.  How do I start this process.  I am still under treatment.  What do I say when asked why I have not worked in 4 years? 

 

Please understand that I was an HR professional for 20 years and even I do not know the answer to this challenge. 

 

I worked as co-chair of our county Relay for Life last year through radiation and chemo, so I know I can be a productive person again.  I had worked for 40 years.

 

I know this is not a unique situation.  Can you address "Returing to work" someplace on this site.