Survivors are more frequently realizing that surviving cancer is only the first battle, fighting for their livelihood is a very common next step after beating cancer. With improvements in treatments, survival rates are increasing and more survivors are finding themselves ready to work again, whether that means returning to the same job or looking for something new. 

According to data compiled by Dr. Cathy Bradley at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, seven million out of fifteen million cancer patients and survivors are still working. "Being in the workforce is critical because your job ties into your sense of self, it's a social connection, and it's also a distraction from your cancer because it reinforces a sense of normalcy," Dr. Bradley explained.

Steps to address the specific needs of cancer survivors in the workplace needs to become a priority for employers. CAC's Executive Director, Rebecca Nellis, explains, "A personal's work circumstance and best path forward after a diagnosis is as unique as his or her treatment protocol. There are so many variables that make each experience totally one-of-a-kind."

For more on considerations for survivors when working through treatment or returning to work, click here.