Talking to Coworkers/Supervisors - Interstitial Cystitis Network Support Forum

janelle77362 · 08-08-2005, 06:42 PM

Any suggestions on how to talk about IC with my boss or coworkers that I am close too? I find it difficult to explain why I can't go to Chinese resturants with my coworkers for lunch or to ask my boss for a day off for a cysto/hydro. I know he is concerned about me when he asks me why I am getting a minor surgery but I find it difficult to explain. I also wear a medical bracelet in case anything happens to me and I get a lot of questions about that. I am not embarrassed to talk about the fact I have IC but I don't want pity either. How can I professionally and personally approach the subject when it arises?

***ICNDonna*** · 08-09-2005, 04:05 AM

You could just print out some information from the Pataient Handbook that describe IC. When I worked (retired now), it was at the hospital where I was diagnosed --- and my immediate supervisor was the Administrator for Nursing Services --- so she knew what I have and also what it is.

Donna

csocain · 08-09-2005, 03:40 PM

Donna's idea is great. That way they could read it and then come back with any questions if they had them. You also never know who could be wondering if they have IC too and just too embarassed to talk about it with anyone. Will be praying about this for you. Blessings of peace and grace.

DawnsRuby19 · 08-24-2005, 05:29 PM

I also think Donna's idea is great. When I was working I was just blunt about what was going on and what I had. I really don't think my manager/coworkers realized how much it really effected my life and working. (they still didn't make adjustments for me.. like i said I couldn't work alone anymore, work more then 8 hours.. I needed time off frequently).. I think it would have helped if I had given them more then just doctor notes, like a printout guide to what IC is.
-Crystal