Cindy Tokarz was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1996, experienced first-hand the struggle of trying to continue on with her life and work while undergoing treatment, writes the Taunton Daily Gazette. The article goes on to interview an oncology social worker about the challenges that survivors face in the workplace and beyond after a diagnosis.

Tokarz worked in the beginning after her diagnosis, but ultimately ended up taking 6 months off for treatment and recovery. She explains in the article, “ 'I didn’t feel up to working at all during my chemo treatment.' ”

Tokarz was lucky that her employers were understanding of her situation, unfortunately this is not the case for everyone. The article goes on to talk about the practical issues that many patients and survivors face, 

“ 'Patients may confront financial challenges, have difficulty completing forms, need prescription assistance, alter plans for child care, or face a number of other everyday concerns,' Sheehan said. 'We can help them apply for insurance coverage, fill out forms, and better understand Social Security benefits, disability benefits, and health care proxy or advance directives. And if a family member must take a leave of absence from work, we can help with Family Medical Leave Act paperwork.' ”

For the full article, click here.