By Rebecca V. Nellis, MPP, Chief Mission Officer, Cancer and Careers
A cancer diagnosis often catches people by surprise. When the person with cancer is one of your employees, knowing how to react is not intuitive. The truth is, when an employee discloses their diagnosis to you, they are looking for direction. Your next steps will be remembered by the cancer survivor, as well as by their colleagues.
Cancer represents a wide range of diagnoses, treatments, side effects, and recovery processes. As an HR professional or manager, you are not expected to understand all of the variables. However, there are things you can think about, organize, and research so that when needed, you are a better resource for clarity and support.