What type of jobs do ICers do?

[EW1]

Hi,

I've had IC for four years and have not had a job, other than brief volunteer work, during the entire time. I have a bachelor's degree and want (and very much need) to work. I currently collect social security, but it's not nearly enough to get by on. I've just become engaged and my finance cannot afford to support us both (I'm currently living with my parents.)

I'm interested in possibly working from home and talked to my sister, who has fibromyalgia, about medical billing. Unfortunately, I did some internet research and found that a lot of the programs offering it from home can turn out to be scams. So, basically, I just want to know what type of careers other ICers have? Any responses are welcomed. Thanks all!

Erica :confused:

[blondiecat]

I have been working for the past five years at a desk job crunching numbers. I am an Admisitratitve Assistant to a CPA. Yep a glorified flunky that's me:D I love the job and do not want to give it up even though it is getting harder and harder for me to go in with all the pain I go through. Thankfully I have a fantastic boss who is willing to work with me through all the doctor visits and really bad days when I need to stay home.

[ICNDonna]

I'm retired now, but I had an office job and spent a lot of time at a computer. However, I also spent time in meetings and rarely spent an entire day just sitting. I actually had a bathroom attached to my office! so it was no problem going to the bathroom.

Donna

[jrowley]

No.1 and I don't want to be a bad person but why are you supporting your fiance'? If I had a boyfriend that I had to support I surely would not marry him. I don't know the situation but I would reconsider that one. No.2 my type of work I do is Computer Drafting. I have a associates in Drafting Design Technology and I curently draft computer, voice, and network drawings.

[Imustpee]

Piano teacher.. :)

[Dianne]

RN: day shift charge nurse on an OB ward. IC for 10+ years. I have a disability agreement with the hospital which allows me to lie down on my lunch hour. I work two 12-hour shifts a week. I don't have to do labor anymore as charge nurses don't do labor, so bathroom problem solved. Otherwise I wouldn't be able to work anymore. I've worked in OB for 31 years. It's a huge struggle but I'm doing it. I do all the scheduling too so I pick/choose who I want to work with and I don't schedule myself two days in a row.

[Babs RN]

Dianne,
How did you reach that disability agreement? I have been an ER nurse for 12 years and had to give it up in May and miss nursing horribly. Not looking to be a hero, but even one shift here or there would keep me in the action. You can PM me or e-mail me if you want. I would love to hear your thoughts.


Hugs,
Barb

[Dianne]

When our hospital went to 12's, they wanted a concensus, not a vote. There were 4 of us holding out for 8's. I was asked what I would require in order to support this. I said I never wanted to work a shift with a certain nurse the rest of my life and I would need a disability contract that allows me to lie down on my lunch 1/2 hour. They agreed. But really you just have to go through HR. They can't deny you a disability agreement if you're employable based on the ADA. If you want to see mine, EM me privately and I can show you what mine says. We can't use the word "sleep". We have to use the word "rest". So I lock the door and take a timer and we have an agreement that they don't know what I'm doing in there and that covers everyone. Don't ask. Don't tell.
Dianne montanapets@earthlink.net

[dyno]

I have worked as a nurse in a hospital and nursing home, worked in day care centers, as a ward clerk at a hospital, as a school lunch food service worker, and I had my own child care business in my home for 15 years.

[JenG]

I used to be an architect, before I had children. Then when my kids were in school I was an art teacher for 6 years. Last fall when I was in pain all the time but still not diagnosed I quit teaching, because all the long hours on my feet and the lack of restroom breaks was killing me. When I was diagnosed, I decided it was good to take a year off and get treatment started and back on my feet. I am like you, currently looking for a career that can work with my IC, I do not feel I could manage going back to teaching full time.

[calmkiwi21]

I was a part time Filing clerk for a local hospital. Best part was I could use the washroom whenever I needed too :) I'd only work 2-4 hours at the most during the day and the pay was pretty good too.

~Amy~

[Haysmom3]

I am a certified medical coder, I work at a level 1 trauma center in Salt Lake City and do all the medical coding for the trauma surgeons. I do have to be on my feet quite a bit, walking all over the hospital from ICU to ICU and all over the floors were our trauma patients are. Before this job I was a unit clerk in the ER. That job was much more busy and time consuming and GOOD LUCK if you have to pee because you aren't going to be able. I love my job were I am now. My coworkers that I share an office with are very understanding about my bathroom trips.

[Haysmom3]

oh yea, my other volunteer job is fostering dogs for a rescue group here in Utah. I always have at least one foster besides my own two dogs. But that isn't really work, and somebody has got to take care the animals in the world.
Jill

www.utahbassethoundrescue.com

[rhea]

I manage a Pediatric office. He is new to the area so we are not crazy busy yet so it is nice. Prior to that I managed and after hours ped urgent care...12-15 hour days.. got to be tooo much, had to cut back hours and pay-unfortunately. But I love what I do.

[tango58]

I'm a Dental Assistant. I've been doing this for 20 years. I sit most of the day. Usually I work at the front desk as a receptionist but I fill in for some of the other girls in the office if they are off sick or on holidays. The way I have to sit when I'm assisting is very uncomfortable. I try to get up and stand as much as possible. I do have understanding co-workers.

[babygirl694]

Hi. I just started a job as a housekeeper at an apartment complex. I clean the general areas, the bathrooms, the laundry rooms, i sweep and mop stairs.. jsut stuff like that. I've been doing janitorial since i was 16 years old. I'm 18 now. .. i can go to the bathroom whenever i need to. GRREAAAT!! :o).

[Jeanne D.]

I am an RN. I worked in a hospital for 13 years -- Pediatrics, OR, Labor and Delivery. I have worked full-time as a School Nurse in the middle school for the past 7 years and one year in the High School.

My principal is very understanding. It also helps that I rarely, if ever miss work. Not that I find it easy to work -- I actually qualify for ssdi -- I just refuse to give into this rotten disease (EC).

Jeanne

[EW1]

Hi Everyone,

Wow, thanks for the great responses and please keep them coming. To answer the question about me supporting my finance, he is a student and works full time, so it will be difficult for him to take care of us both at this time. He is extremely supportive of my IC and we actually got together well after I was diagnosed, so he knew what he was getting into. Basically, we just need two incomes until he can support us both.

I'm taking classes for insurance right now, but I just worry about working since it's been so long and I've never earned a paycheck since being diagnosed. I had been a receptionist (which I know probably wouldn't work for me now.) My symptoms are pain, urgency and frequency and I have PFD and vulvodynia as well. It is really great to hear that others out there are able to work. I hope the insurance classes help, and I still might consider billing, but would probably have to start in an office. Anyway, thanks again for all the feedback!

Erica

[mary124]

I work for the state, Admin. Tech, doing LOTS of paper & computer work.
I work 40 hours/week. Bathroom not too terribly far away. My current boss is very understanding. Don't miss too much work, (had one boss not too long ago, and she was something else- had to get a note from the doctor explaining what I go thru and she still couldn't understand (afterall, she was 65 and healthy as a horse!! and here I am 45 and sick with all off my medical problems.

[MelanieJ]

I work at Ohio State University as an instructional designer/training developer. I'm also working on an MA degree in Workforce Development and Education.

:) Melanie

[Maribeth-rn]

I have tried a couple of work from home jobs. If they ask for money upfront. It is a sing that they could be shady. Right now I am going back to nursing school. I am physically and mentally in pain and exhausted, but I am forcing myself to do it. Before going back to school I started selling Mary Kay as a way to make money. I enjoy it. It helps me to get out, meet new people, and socialize. I can make my own schedule which is great for those days when I can't get out of bed. It was hard at first because I decided to buy some inventory. I paid money upfront for my products only because there was a 100% money back refund, so I was willing to try. I have done fairly well. I am able to work as much or as little as I want. I also thought why not purchase skin care and make up since I would use most of it anyway. If you have any questions let me know.

Beth

[cybersis]

I am a tax accountant and bookkeeper. I used to work for a firm but started my own business with a partner and have found that very useful. We have an office but I have also set one up in my home and when things get too bad I can bring home the paperwork and do it from here. I am going to schedule my work hours to be a little more IC friendly. As we are just starting the money isn't as good as I am use to but hopefully we will take off and I won't have to worry as much.

[shennan]

and want to work!

jesus bless all of you.

i have a hard anough time folding the clothes against a pillow. never mind working for a company.

just hanging out at home...

have 3 potty's.

maybe i'll write a book someday.

that's what i want to do....write a book about my life.

wonder if anyone would buy it?
lol...

:loco: from the ic and the spasms/pain...
shenna

[kadi]

I am a high school teacher.

[Flarin-up Vicky]

I work as a cashier at a gormet food grocery store. I gave my boss a note from my uro about my condition,so I can go to the restroom as often as I need to.I think sometimes that I'm being discriminated because of my ic,there's people that are new and that get way more hours than me!! Plus,I haven't been given an 8 hour shift in a long time!!

[Cricketmk3]

I am a government worker at an army depot. It is an office job and it's hard to sit sometimes but as you all know, when you're in a flare it's hard to sit, stand, lay, or anything else. I have a corn bag at work that I can heat up in the microwave. It helps a lot and I have a cushion from the IC store that I sit on when I need to.

[theclownster]

Hi all! I work in the Human Service field for a children's grief support program. I'm also attending graduate school for my MSW (Masters in Social Work) degree. I have great bosses and do some supervision myself which means I move around and have ample time to use the bathroom. I also work a lot of afternoon/evenings which helps me because I don't function too well in the mornings. I do take time off when I need to and since I have a good benefit package, it's not usually a problem. I do some work from home and when I don't go into the office (call in sick) I still get my work done and make myself available by phone or email if someone needs me. I also try to check voicemail and access my work email when I'm off. Oh, and hubby just surprised me with a brand new laptop with a wireless network so I can sit on the couch comfortably and get things done.

Best wishes in your search. May you find something that works well for you!
Jennifer

[mayray518]

I was a paralegal for 18 years at a law firm in DC. Tried to keep my job, I did DMSO for a year, but when that stopped working I had to go on disabililty. I have now been feeling well for 4 years and am job hunting but it is not easy. they want to know all about the job gap and there are always tons of 25 year olds ready and willing to get the jobs (I am now 50). To say that IC didnt ruin my career would be a lie. Everyone nods their heads and says "sorry" when they hear about the disease but they dont say "Oh you poor thing, lets hire you back at the salary you would have been at." I am single and doing it all on my own and it is rough. When I think of the salary I would be making had it not been for IC I get depressed. Starting over in mid life is not easy after working my way up the ladder for years.

[fireflicker285]

Superintendent. The way I look at it, there are 45 washrooms (apts) in my job! lol.

[Lyn40]

I left a full-time job about 3 years ago because of my ic. Now I am a office aide in my church office 3 days a week. This job came to me at the right time and I'm grateful for it.

Lyn

[chainsaw]

Hi Melanie,

Just wanted to say Hi from a formal Ohio resident. Would like to move back to Ohio. Gonna have to work on my husband on that idea. Been in Pennsylvania since June 2002 and I miss Ohio very much. All our friends and family are there.

GO BUCKEYES!
Kim

I work at Ohio State University as an instructional designer/training developer. I'm also working on an MA degree in Workforce Development and Education.

:) Melanie

[mayray518]

Jrowley she didnt say she supported her fiance, she said he could not afford to support both of them. I dont know where you live but in the DC area most couples are two-income couples, the cost of living is so high. I also had to go on disability in 1996 and had to give up my condo. Sometimes you can do typing at home; look in your paper for ads. I understand what you are going through. I was a paralegal at a law firm for 17 years and stayed for a year after the diagnosis of IC with DMSO but when that stopped it was impossible to work. I could not be going to the bathroom every 10 minutes in a busy law office. I hope you find something that works and you can find a job.

[mayray518]

:welcome: :welcome: Jrowley she didnt say she supported her fiance, she said he could not afford to support both of them. I dont know where you live but in the DC area most couples are two-income couples, the cost of living is so high. I also had to go on disability in 1996 and had to give up my condo. Sometimes you can do typing at home; look in your paper for ads. I understand what you are going through. I was a paralegal at a law firm for 17 years and stayed for a year after the diagnosis of IC with DMSO but when that stopped it was impossible to work. I could not be going to the bathroom every 10 minutes in a busy law office. I hope you find something that works and you can find a job.

[ICnIL]

I worked as a Certified Nurse Assistant for 7 years in a long term care facility. Left the field kicking and screaming about 3 years ago. I absolutly LOVED working with elderly patients but the long hours and lifting were wreaking havoc on my body. Now I'm taking a course in Medical Transcription. Some Dr's will hire you to work from home while others have you come into the office.

[ldgb4]

Hello, I am a nursing assistant in a nursing home I do alot of heavy lifting and can't always go to the bathroom when I need to but I'm not sure what I should do stay or get another job. Lisa

[AnnieMac]

I'm a medical transcriptionist and I work at home. I am married and have five children....I absolutely love working at home. I have IBS, GERD, IC, restless legs syndrome, allergic rhinitis, low back pain and achy knees...I think I have vulvodynia but have not been diagnosed with it. Working at home is the best for me because I have everything right at my fingertips and I can go to the bathroom when I want and I don't feel like everybody is watching me...When I get a flareup, I can lay down if I want and get up and work when I feel better. I was very lucky to get this job...I had no experience and no medical terminology, but my sister worked in the office and told me they were looking for at-home transcriptionists and they were willing to train...so I jumped at the opportunity.

[Moby]

I am an investment management attorney at a major law firm in Washington DC. It has been really tough at times to handle my IC - for awhile I thought I would have to quit. People were sympathetic at first, but then things at my job started suffering because people were afraid I wasn't up to the steady level of work. So I acted the best I could like I was 'cured' and now things are back to normal at work and that is going really well. IC, on the other hand, is a constant struggle! Best wishes to all of you !!! Hugs, Dianne :)

[babygirl694]

yes the ic is a constant struggle. Its hard to keep a job because you never know how you are going to feel day-to-day.. but my job fits me well. I can go to the bathroom whenever ineed to. I basically decide my hours.. and they are really understanding about me missing when i am having flair ups. I told them the first week i worked there about it and they seem to understand.. Its good. :). i hope you guys are flare-free and having a good day.. im in alot of pain right now.. not sure if its from my Ic or something else. I guess i need to go to the doctor..anyways, talk to you guys later!! byebye

[ducky]

I have recently received the "Ticket to Work" from SSD you may want to ask about it. Now I am being assessed for my current skill levels. It is a slow proccess. Just turtle steps, because if you go too fast there is too much room for failure. Then they either retrain you through your Vocational Rehabilitation office or referr you out to other state/county/private services they feel may be of help to you reach your goal.
Has really helped me so far. Feel good about myself and have a goal.

[ducky]

:kissing: :flower: [COLOR=Blue][FONT=Garamond][SIZE=7]Hi,

I've had IC for four years and have not had a job, other than brief volunteer work, during the entire time. I have a bachelor's degree and want (and very much need) to work. I currently collect social security, but it's not nearly enough to get by on. I've just become engaged and my finance cannot afford to support us both (I'm currently living with my parents.)

I'm interested in possibly working from home and talked to my sister, who has fibromyalgia, about medical billing. Unfortunately, I did some internet research and found that a lot of the programs offering it from home can turn out to be scams. So, basically, I just want to know what type of careers other ICers have? Any responses are welcomed. Thanks all!

Erica :confused:
I have recently received the "Ticket to Work" from SSD you may want to ask about it. Now I am being assessed for my current skill levels. It is a slow proccess. Just turtle steps, because if you go too fast there is too much room for failure. Then they either retrain you through your Vocational Rehabilitation office or referr you out to other state/county/private services they feel may be of help to you reach your goal.
Has really helped me so far. Feel good about myself and have a goal.

[HoosierwithIC]

Data and Business Analyst.....i mostly sit in front of a computer all day...=)

[Specs]

I am a Creative Writer for two radio stations and a freelance voiceover artist. I sit in front of the computer at my office which is strategically placed next to the ladies washroom. ;)

[windwalker]

I work in a high school lunch room, servin up the grub ;)

[Cinderella3]

I am a ParaEducator working with special needs students in an Elementary School.

[Portia17]

I don't think I belong on this board or anywhere else. I have been on disability from work since 11 2004. How come I CAN'T WORK. Why do I always have the damn pain. I follow the stupid diet, I am going on my 4th dmso friday and I take elmiron and anti-histamines and 5 other drugs from pain management. ALL I DID WAS SWEEP THE FLOORS IN MY HOUSE, THEN MY BACK STARTED AND MY BLADDER GO WORSE THAN USUAL. Seems like you guys are fine and okay to work and I am happy for you but that is not going to happen for me. WHY???? Please help

[navemj]

I work in medical records. I sit most of the time. I have this job just for the benefits and I can go to the bathroom whenever I need to. The IC keeps me from applying for most jobs. I was out on family medical leave last year, and I have been out again for four weeks. I only have four more weeks before I loose my job. It is very hard to work with IC and the associated problems.
Maryann

[ldgb4]

hello everyone, I am a nursing assitant which if anyone has done this type of work or knows someone who has then they know the strain it has on your body,just recently there was a position that came up as an activities assistant I have put in for it but just have this horrible feeling that I won't get the job it means decrease in pay but I think that my having my body feel a little better is so much more worth it than the pay. I can't really go to the bathroom as a nursing assistant because the residents have to come first if they need something which I don't mind at all I love those people to death but my body especially my bladder pays for holding my urine. I have spasms so bad now I can't stand it. Please if you all can pray for me that I get this new position or that I may stumble up on a new job so I don't have to hurt all the time and thank you so much for taking the time to listen you all are great.

Thank you,
Lisa :( :shake:

[cindyp]

I am a landscape designer! Hard physical work. But I have a helper that does the heavy work.I so much love this type of work. Planting and growing is more of a love then a job to me. But working outside at other peoples houses. Theres no bathroom available unless I'm lucky and find a thick stand of trees! I also have Crohns disease which gives me constant urgent diareah! So if one end doesn't have to go the other does!
I was ready to give it up. But hubby came up with a solution He put a cab on the back of the truck I use.And bought a porti pottie the type you use camping. Curtains at the windows and I have my very own bathroom parked at job sites! My co worker is my best friend since childhood so she understands my frequent running trips to the truck!
I have live through alot of adversity in my life health wise. But I'm a fighter and I love my work and I'll be darned if IC and Crohns is going to take it away from me.
Living in Maine I only work 4 to 5 months out of the year. weather wise!

[neal1044]

I work as an Outpatient Scheduling Reviewer for 2 Hospital's. We do medicare compliance checks. I get to sit most of the day, can use the restroom whenever and as much as I need to.

[alana rose]

I am a manager at Starbucks-so I am on my feet about 6 hours a day the other 2 in the office. It is a high paced job and I love my work, but some days I just say to myself "I just can't do this anymore!" I have been a manager going on 6 years now and diagnosed with IC just over four years ago. The company is just amazing with IC! I have alot of support and understanding which helps a lot. On Monday the 18th I started a medical leave of absence and my district manager told me to not worry about the store and to rest up and try to heal myself and also if I needed longer than one month off that it is no problem. Their motto is 'look after your employees and the business will follow.' I get short-term disability. I would work an 8 hour day and just be exhausted. My body ached from head to toe and then my bladder pain...nothing like pain 24/7! As I said in another post , I have been diagnosed with endo as well and had my first Lupron shot on Monday.

[DCS]

I've had IC for approximately 11 years. Only had 1 flare up the first 5 years. Afterwards, its been every 6 months. I am an insurance agent for a wonderful agency. I have my own office and sitting most of the time. My boss is very understanding when I go for treatments or if I just feel like I need to go home. But in return, I always make up my time and keep my work load caught up.

Some days my bladder bothers me quite a bit so I keep a heat pad at my desk. I also buy Thermacare Heat pads that stick to your panties. It works wonders just like a heat pad! I always keep some in my office and at home.

Good Luck!

[Maribeth-rn]

Lisa,
Good Luck! I hope you get the activity assistant position. If you do, let me know. I have a Bachelor degree in recreation therapy and was a director in a nursing home and a psychiatric facility for several years. I am just finishing nursing school now. I work as a nursing student which is the equivalent of a CNA. Again, good luck. If you have any questions let me know.

Maribeth

[Portia17]

I have a question

If you say you only flare like every 5 months or 5 years does this mean that you are pain free and can urinate normally every day and like you are your normal self?

Thanks

[patricia1]

I am no longer working, have not since 2002 - when I just was not able to work any longer and my job was being laid off. But for the 6 yrs before that I was a payroll clerk for a larger paper company. I paid over 2,000 employees weekly for this company. I also handled all garnishments, child support order, bankruptcy ded and so forth. When I started I only paid 200 weekly employees but my responsibilities grew. This was a very stressful and fast paced enivoriement. It was hard to concen. going to the bathroom every 15 to 20 min. I was able to go when needed that was never an issue, but I started to miss alot of work and was written up all the time for my absences. I loved doing payroll I miss it at times.

When I was laid off I decided to file for SSD the following november of 2002. It took me from then until Feb 2005 to start getting my check every month. The longest part was waiting for a hearing date as I was denied the first go around. There are times when I miss the human contact. During the day its
just me then the kids and hubby. I really have no friends. Although my husband is my best friend, just the lack of human conversation with someone other than him is so lonely. I never leave my house except to get the kids and thats about it. But oh well sorry for the pity party....

[notcrazy-yet]

I was a Pharmacy Technician until my first son was born. I then became a full time mom and with a husband who is in the navy, my list of "jobs" in a day is endless. Currently, I have also taken on the role of student majoring in psychology. Distance learning courses from home make this easier. I aspire to one day help people like me- who have been told "its all in their head" for so long that they start to believe it too. The only question that remains is: Who wants to see a doctor on long term Elavil herself? That worries me, but I believe IC doesn't define any of us and with great support and self love we can achieve anything and DO anything. Best of luck to you.

[DebbieD]

Well I did work. But My Dr. Put me On Disabiality. I have no Problem with that.

DebbieD

[Hangin' Tough]

I have been a software Training and Testing Consultant for the last five years. I was diagnosed with IC two years ago. My immediate supervisor and my HR department have been very understanding and supportive. They recently purchased an adjustable computer desk and stool so that I can sit or stand as needed. No problems with bathroom or walk around breaks. I am almost to the point that I cannot do it anymore, the pain is just too much. I am mentally and physically exhausted. I have a 1 hour commute each way and some days I am just too tired to make the drive. I think disability is coming soon. My doctor has said many times that he doesn't know how I can work in my condition. HR director is really my side and has said that they want me here as long as I can do it, but that they hate to see me suffer and support any decision that I make. It helps to have understanding folks around you. Good luck and God Bless you all.

Steve

[Babs RN]

I have been an RN for twelve years until last May, specializing in ER and Critical Care.

Hugs,
Barb :grouphug:

[Hangin' Tough]

I don't think I belong on this board or anywhere else. I have been on disability from work since 11 2004. How come I CAN'T WORK. Why do I always have the damn pain. I follow the stupid diet, I am going on my 4th dmso friday and I take elmiron and anti-histamines and 5 other drugs from pain management. ALL I DID WAS SWEEP THE FLOORS IN MY HOUSE, THEN MY BACK STARTED AND MY BLADDER GO WORSE THAN USUAL. Seems like you guys are fine and okay to work and I am happy for you but that is not going to happen for me. WHY???? Please help

Believe me when I say that I am not "fine and okay to work", but at this point it is not an option not to work. Some days I don't make it and other days I am just here and not functioning. With only 4 or 5 hours of sleep per night interrupted by 3-5 bathroom trips doesn't equal rest. So, I am just hanging on by a thread right now.

Steve

[babygirl694]

same here.

[K9wife]

Wow..... so many of us work in a medical profession! Coincidence? I think not! I work in a very busy Family Practice (husband/wife Dr. team) in a rural setting I have worked for almost 30 years(and dx with IC during all of those years), and even after all this time, working with other "medical professionals" there are still SO many that need to be advised that what we feel is REAL. There have been some days I didn't even want to get out of bed, to say nothing about listening to all of my patients whine about things I sometimes felt were small in comparison to my IC...but I must say: I have really learned about compassion, and of all of the emplyees in our office, many times the patient who just needs an understanding ear seeks out ME. If anything good has come from having IC, it has been that I am able to understand the mental, social, family, and psychological things that also go along with chronic illness and to hopefully give even one person a little hope! So THAT'S why we get out of bed and go to work even on our worst days....I think I get it now!

[marysing]

I am a software consultant. I travel with my job and have just been diagnosed. I feel very down about having to work right now.

[babygirl694]

I feel down about it too. You're not alone. =) I just feel like im not dependable because i miss so many days. It is hard for me to keep a steady job. But you gotta make a living somehow. :|

[K9wife]

I am a nurse in a Doctor's office, and help my husband as police K9 handler with the dog for training,etc. when I can (hence, my screen name- K9wife!) Sometimes the job is just almost too much to go to, but usually when I get there I see peole in worse shape than I am and it makes me feel better about ME. LOL

[Dixiefireball]

before ic my last job was at charles lea center. which i loved very much!!

i'm a stay at home mom now. and fought two years to get my dis. which i agree with you its not enough to pay my bills however i do pay the car inc, power bill, phone bill, water bill, then get a few at home idem, dish washing liquid, soap, etc. etc. but that is only about 50.00 dollars left out of my check after i pay the main bills. hubby has to pay the other bills like the house payment car etc. he gets the big bills while i get all the little onces

[Sunshine8jr]

I do accounting for a CPA who also happens to be a law student. I just went through six more treatments of DMSO and now I am having more trouble with flare ups than I have in a while. My job takes a lot of concertration, but luckily, I have an understanding boss.

Good luck to you.
Trace-Laine

[SrMaggie]

I am a principal of an elementary school. Some days it is very difficult to get around to see all the classrooms. I hate it when others notice I'm slowing down, or walking slowly. Sometimes it's just too hard to walk. I've gone in late a few times. I have an 'oat bag' that I can heat in the micro, sometimes I use the thermo-heat things or ice.
It's when I get tired that I have the worst time dealing with the pain. I called in one time, after having tried everything to quell the pain.. The secretary got worried and sent one of the employees to the house to see if I was alright.
I worry that I'm not going to be able to do this job much longer, but I put mind over matter when I can and plug away. I guess I'm mostly in denial that i have anything wrong.
I soak in a tepid tub when it hurts. That helps.
Keep plugging ICers. We can support one another.
Blessings,
Maggie

[Cysto-Kid]

Hello, l have been here b-4 l do not have inc. but a friend of mine does "Shirley2" She works with me in Surgery you'll never guess where ...Cysto.
We are both P.S.T./Urology Tech's,...I feel for her l don't know the pain and wish you all didn't either. I hope and Pray that they come up with something soon for all of you that suffer with it.
Peace Ken

[MeganAnne]

I got my BA in Anthropology with focuses in archaeology and museum studies. When I graduated in 2003, I did not have IC or any bladder symptoms. I intially worked as a Park Ranger (giving educational tours, etc.) and then switched over to archaeology. Unfortunately, with the carpooling and rough physical conditions, I had to stop. Though, if you have a job where you are out in the woods/nature, it's not too bad because everyone just has to pee in the bushes... so you don't have to worry about finding a bathroom. :) Ah, sigh. During the winter, I worked in an archaeological lab, which was great because I was working with artifacts and could get up to use the bathroom whenver I needed.

Now I work for a museum as an administrator. I am enjoying my new job. The hardest part is trying to sit through meetings; I simply go to the bathroom immediately before every meeting and hold off on drinking a lot if I know I have a long meeting. I know this is not good for me though, because then I feel dehydrated.

Best of luck in the job market! It can take some creative thinking to weave your interests into a job your body can handle. I know you can do it!!!

[Sarojini]

Hey all... I worked as a biologist in a medical research laboratory at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, but had to quit last August due to my health (this was suggested to my by my urologist), and the fact that I hated the lab, the boss, and the co-workers -- they were not understanding of my condition, and not very nice people to boot. In fact, not one of them has contacted me to see how I'm doing since I left!

HOWEVER, I am planning to go back to work starting July 1 -- we are moving to Winston-Salem, NC so that I can start a position in a biological laboratory at Wake Forest University (Bowman-Gray Medical School). I'll be studying the effects of radiation on the brain, in order to hopefully improve radiation therapy for brain tumors. I'll be doing a postdoc (kind of apprenticeship) for 2 years and then, if all goes well, I hope to be hired onto the faculty there.

They are aware of my IC and will make allowances for me to be more comfortable and be able to work in an accepting environment, unlike SJ.

[Babs RN]

Jen,
I am so happy you found a great job! You deserve it! I am interviewing for an IV therapy position that allows me to make my own schedule(Lindsey starts school in the fall)and doesn't require the prolonged standing...since it is a home health type position.

Hugs,
Barb :grouphug:

[poetgirl]

Content manager for corporate intranet. It's totally a desk job -- I'm surprised I'm not surgically attached to my laptop! ;) I can work from home part of the week, which is nice when fatigue sets in or other symptoms act up. Telecommuting was a huge lifesaver the past two years, when I was just diagnosed with IC/VV and was in a lot of discomfort every day, and last year, when I had a bad episode with a drug interaction (Elavil and Zoloft) that took me a while to bounce back from.

I was in the office yesterday and the IBS started acting up. I have also been trying to drink more water, so then there trips just to pee. It's ridiculous sometimes. It seems like I'm constantly running to the bathroom by mid-afternoon and I wonder what my co-workers think when I keep getting up to head in that direction. (Maybe I ought to just move my cubicle in there...) So, some days I'm just glad for the opportunity to work at home and deal with that stuff privately.