IC and work? - Interstitial Cystitis Network Support Forum

Megs · 02-12-2004, 01:51 AM

Hey everyone,
i had a question for those that are working with IC. I am currently in a 4 year doc program. its hard at times, especially when i have flairs. i have heard of a lot of people who can't even work with IC becuase they miss too much time. is this the case for anyone? its tough going thru a program like this, and not knowing if i will be able to work full time. i guess knowing that people can handle work and IC at the same time, would be a little more mind settling for me. thanks, meg

BobbieB · 02-12-2004, 02:39 AM

I hope it will work out good for you...I know many do have to quit work and I know we all can cartainly understand that,and I have heard of some that are able to go into their work, and make it through the day...I work full time but am able to do all my office work here at home except for a few times I have to call a board meeting..and then it has worked out find to go to the meetings..BobbieB.

***Sarojini*** · 02-12-2004, 04:41 AM

Hi Megs... I keep going to work so far. In fact, I'm at work right now. I'm a postdoctoral research associate in a biological laboratory. It's not easy, especially when I am flaring (like I have been the last two days). But, what's good is that my research is somewhat self-directed, so I can go at my own pace, pee when I need to, sit down when I need to, and generally go to the doctor if I need to. Of course, if I'm TOO slow my boss does get a bit mad *grin*

Still, it's not easy working all the time... the commute in the morning/evening is pretty bad sometimes. Traffic jams and IC do not mix, as I am sure you know!! And sometimes I just don't feel like getting out of bed... I have been making myself do it daily though. It sort of helps to have a normal routine.

Good luck! PM me anytime...

dminton · 02-12-2004, 08:11 AM

Hi there!

I feel that it is crucial for me to get my pain under control before I look for work again. I have been off since Aug. on state disability due to IC pain. I have to say, tho, that if I could find work to do out of my own home, I would probably start tomorrow! I was a nurse and am not trained to do anything else, nor do any other jobs around here pay nearly as much, so I am in a bit of a quandary (sp?) as to what to do. I really need to figure this one out. The thought of going out every day to a workplace and having to be there for "x" number of hours is just more than I can contemplate with how I am still feeling IC-wise.

Anyway, I think it's neat that you are working on something exciting like a doctorate and hope that it all works out for you! If I can help in any other way, let me know.

Diana

carly · 02-12-2004, 02:21 PM

I worked at a hospital for 23 years as a Respiratory Therapist. I had to quit due to the IC. I think I worked longer than I should have. I could barely walk out of the hosp. toward the end. Of course, I worked 12 hour shifts in Intensive Care which was very hard. I miss work, I miss the people and the babies (neonatal intensive care). I do have a project I do at home, I crochet blankets for babies that are stillborn or die shortly after birth. It helps me feel like I am contributing. Good luck with your education!

ICsunshine 4/12 · 02-12-2004, 03:14 PM

yes it is hard, but you are many steps ahead of where I was,. took 30 years for a knowledgeable doctor to make the diagnosis. And I worked in a career, married, had a child and was co-owner of a business.Course if I knew the disease I would have altered some things in my life. IThought that with the proper resources and determination I could overcome it. The obstinance cost me dearly. Been out of work almost 3 years. Don't fight the changes,embrace them and find your triggers and avoid them. Then introduce yourself to the new you.