Reality of being successful in a career with TN

1

Hi all,

Does anyone have advise or stories on being able to be successful with a career while having TN? I fear a life of in and out with disability (assuming they approve it) and not being able to hold a job. For now, I'm lucky to be on leave from my current job, but want to grow (Area TBD).

Thank you,

Sara

2

Sara: Working for someone else will be difficult. You will have your good days and bad days. On your good days you may be the star but on your bad days you will not be available. I am going through that now. In my job I am (or was) one of the real stars. Now I have “attendance issues” and I have been “falling behind”. It is not what did you do for me yesterday but what have you done for me today. Of all the people in the world, I would think that those of us with TN may need to be self employed. Most likely the hardest thing to do with the cost of health insurance and having to meet deadlines. You did not say what you do or what you would want to do, but if I were a young man, self employment would be what I would look towards.

3

I am self employed, and there are problems there also. I HAVE to do payroll, quarterly taxes, fill in for my cashier when she gets sick. The last time that HAPPENED, I would go into my blank stare in front of customers. Thank goodness my husband is there too.

4

Hi Sara,
I think you CAN be successful at a career!
Please keep in mind that we are ALL affected by TN differently. We all respond to meds and/or surgical treatments differently.
TN is NOT a cookie cutter disease.
I had TN initially for 9 months, then it went into remission for 8 YEARS!
During those 8 yrs I pursued a job opportunity and enjoyed a great career!
My TN came back in 2010 and I was able to work an additional year and a half until a new health issue caused me to go on disability. Many people are disabled by TN, but many are also able to manage their pain with meds or treatments OR they have remission or successful surgeries.
After my TN goes away, I intend on continuing my career!!!

Here’s the thing…plan for what you want to do, yes,there may be set backs, BUT maybe not!
You cannot live your life that way!
One day at a time …
((((hugs))))), Mimi

5

Sara…I have been able to hold my job as a nurse. I went through the human recourse department explaining my disability and what accomodation I wohkd need. I requested 8hour shifts only 3 days a week. This was granted. Aol I am very faithful to make it to my shifts and keep my job…I love being a nurse and it is something I don’t want to give up!! Someday I cry because the pain is so bad…other days I feel good. I bank the good days and thrive on those. I just do the best I can and when I need help…I ask!! Good luck to u!!