One of the most pressing questions for employed people after a cancer diagnosis is,“Am I going to disclose my diagnosis at work?” After being diagnosed with breast cancer, Kathy Flora, a former human resources professional and a volunteer career coach with Cancer and Careers, recalls her decision-making regarding to whom she would disclose her diagnosis and just how much information she would share about her situation. Fifteen years later, she reflects on her choice to disclose to her colleagues and what she would advise others to do in similar situations.

Rebecca V. Nellis, Executive Director of Cancer and Careers, adds that there are many factors to consider before deciding whether to disclose. For example, things such as what your healthcare team says about how treatment might impact your job and what kind of culture exists at your organization are critical.

Regardless of what you decide, the most important thing is to have control over the message by making mindful and informed decisions.

To read more about Kathy’s experience and disclosure issues, click here.