Need advise from working mom's with IC - Interstitial Cystitis Network Support Forum

Americangirllll · 09-04-2001, 09:48 AM

Hello all. Im am a 35 year old stay at home mom of 4 & I am also living with IC. My kids are 15, 13, 13, & 11. My husband was resentley hurt on the job and is having to go on Workmans Comp. So that means that Mom here is going to have to go out and bring home the bacon. In fact I have been wanting to for some time now. My children are all in Middle School and High School now, so I have a little extra time for a Job. My worry is about keeping it once I get it. With my IC, Im usually ok if I drink ton's of water a day, but that means that I also have to make frequent trips to the lady's room. I am so worried that I will end up losing my job because of my Illness & not be able to help support my family when we most need it. Any advise would be greatley appriciated.

Thanx, A

Michelle in AR · 09-04-2001, 11:34 AM

Well, I have 2 little ones. Emilee is 9 and Justin is 3. I work part time, but have always worked full time until a year ago. I work for a local REMAX office and most of the time I am the only one here. (they recently told me tha if I had other work to bring in that woudl be fine by them!!) I haven't told them abou my IC because I don't need to. If I were you I'd try to find a small office and go from there. Or, you can start a daycare and not claim it on your taxes. Check into a few places and go cheaper then they are. Good luck! Michelle in KC

***ICNDonna*** · 09-04-2001, 12:50 PM

You didn't mention where your skills lie. If you have office skills, you might consider working through a temp agency. That way you can work when you are able, and take time off when you need to. I think I would start as part time, whatever job you take. Fortunately your kids are old enough they can help at home.

Warm hugs,
Donna

shell · 09-05-2001, 01:31 AM

I've always worked full-time and am currently also working 2 part-time jobs. I've found that working in an office goes well with my IC, I'm able to use the restroom whenever I need to. I make sure to avoid jobs that would not allow easy restroom access.

In addition to finding a job that works well with IC, keep in mind the commute. During good weather it's a 10-15 minute drive for me to get to work. In the winter it can be up to a half-hour (I live in snow country). I'm fortunate that if I'm having a bad IC day and the roads are bad, I'll call in sick and stay home.

I've never disclosed my IC when interviewing for a job. I made sure to scope out the place of employment at the interview to see where restrooms are located in relation to the work area. That way I'm making the decision as to whether or not the situation will work for me. I've since told some of my supervisors and co-workers about my IC, but that was my choice, and every one has always been great about any minor accommodations I might need.

rita45 · 09-08-2001, 04:05 AM

i am starting a new full time in a office enviorment. It is in a new hotel not far from my home>
I have been working part time on my feet in retail and it has gotten harder an d harder with my ic to be on my feet!!!
I have alot of back problems and that has also been very difficult.

I am looking forward to having a job where i can sit down.
I am nervous about starting a new job but did not tell them about my ic!