Communicating your diagnosis

Following your diagnosis of breast cancer, it may help to take some time to consider who you want or need to share your diagnosis with and how much you want to disclose.

Tips for sharing your diagnosis with your clients

• Be direct and talk about what you know. For example, confirm your working hours and advise the best way to contact you (e.g. during treatment you may suggest clients email you to set up a time to talk).
• Communicate your abilities and emphasise your strengths with statements such as, 'My hours may change, but the project will still be delivered on time.'
• Try to maintain a professional relationship with your client. You may not want to share your fears and worries.
• Think about alternative or flexible ways of working that could suit both your needs.
• If you have physical side effects such as hair loss, you may want to postpone meetings in person. Use technology, such as email or conference calling, to stay in touch. If you speak to your client about your cancer, you may feel comfortable with a face-to-face meeting.
• Be prepared for a range of reactions if you tell a client about your health. Some people will be compassionate, others may be more aloof. Some clients may choose to work with someone else.
• Consider subcontracting some work or referring clients to someone else if you can’t meet their needs.