Isn't life Funny?

Anonymous

September 29,2022 at 2:14AM UTC

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Isn't life Funny? - why I turned down a dream opportunity.

A heavy share but I feel I can do so here comfortably and anonymously.

I am wanting to transition from teaching to software development. Upon completion of PGCert (Information Technology), I was offered a job from my first interview! at a startup, in mid-August. It was exciting and seemed such a wonderful supportive team to launch my new career, it ticked all the boxes for me including being fully remote.

I turned it down. Why? I had spent every spare minute for the past 18 months working towards this moment. I was devastated.

Why? Something was happening with my health, a kind of allergic reaction, I didn't know what exactly at the time but my instinct was telling me I might not get better quickly and my doctors were already scratching their heads saying "weird". I wanted to make sure I could start my new career at my best and not be a drag on the team.

Unfortunately, I was right. Within 2 weeks I ended up in hospital very ill, swollen, barely able to stand or walk far, and unable to brush my hair or drive a car, talking and swallowing were difficult. Turns out I had developed dermatomyositis (a rare immune system disease attacking muscles and skin) which is often associated with the presence of cancer. Yep, my family curse Triple-negative breast cancer.

So now I am facing at least 6months of chemo to treat both conditions and then a double mastectomy and possible further radiation and chemo.

Life has a sense of humor - my Dad (stage 4 nodular melanoma) and I have the same Oncologist.

I cannot work teaching until my muscles repair (if they ever do). So while lying in hospital I made a decision...I can't control all this stuff happening to me. I CAN still type, and I CAN still code. I will still prepare for my life once I am well again. Wish me luck.

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Kathryn MontbriandSeptember 29,2022 at 2:29AM UTC
sending you the biggest validation and hugs that I can - what you are going through is super tough. Strength, resilience, humor. <3
AnonymousSeptember 29,2022 at 2:52AM UTC
Wow. You can code!!!!!!!!
It may take some time but yes you will definitely code.
I wish you well!
AnonymousSeptember 29,2022 at 3:11AM UTC
The VERY best of luck to you! Your health is paramount. A job is just a job, yanno? You'll receive other offers (or perhaps come back to this if possible?). Focus on getting healthy. Hugs.
Jackie RukaSeptember 29,2022 at 5:03AM UTC
Your health is your wealth! The good news is your new career is there and you are employable, as well as finding out the root cause of your symptoms. Wishing you a speedy journey to a healthier you!
Alexis GladstoneSeptember 29,2022 at 2:41PM UTC
I love your attitude while facing this! I'm glad you followed your gut though I'm sorry for the diagnosis.
I'm sending you virtual hugs and the most healing energy I can from a fellow breast cancer thriver.
AnonymousSeptember 29,2022 at 3:56PM UTC
It is strange what our bodies tell us, isn't it?
About 3 years ago I had some weird hives going on, along with a handful of other symptoms that I couldn't explain way any longer. I was diagnosed with leukemia. Then 2 months later, diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia and now my doctors are looking at something else as I have some strange bloodwork (pancreas maybe).
You are so strong and you can do this. I wish you so much luck!
AnonymousSeptember 29,2022 at 3:58PM UTC
And THANK YOU for posting. I am going to also. I have not put it out there on social media and doing it even if anonymously on FGB makes me feel some sort of way!
AnonymousSeptember 29,2022 at 6:05PM UTC
Being able to post anonymously, meant I could...I struggle with posting personal stuff online. I just felt I needed to tell this part of my story and if it helps others going their battles feel less lonely its a major bonus.
Monique BrownSeptember 30,2022 at 12:24PM UTC
You can do it ! I left corporate America in Jan . After finding out I had stage 4 cancer . At the time I had a 6 month old and two teens . I was brave enough to open a new business. Regardless of being sick . I kept pushing and motivating myself because I wanted to get better . Research what’s in your chemo and try the holistic route . I was diagnosed cancer free yesterday ! Experiment with different herbs/veggies/fruit and plants .Medical cannabis was excellent for treating depression and side effects associated with chemo ! - Prayers
Crystal HowellSeptember 30,2022 at 1:03PM UTC
Good Luck, keep typing and coding, maybe the new start up needs virtual help?