CP and continued Employment.

June 12, 2004

Hi again.

I realise that it is early days for me as I have only recently been diagnosed

with having Pancreatitis.

However as I have already discussed my pains are getting more frequent and as

they have been on and off for 6 months now, I feel I may have Cronic

Pancreatitis. However upcoming tests will show the situation more clearly

hopefully.

One other question which is swirling around in my mind is regarding my job. A

month ago I did ask for a change of role. I currently am a branch Manager in

charge of 2 offices for Halifax Bank of Scotland (Branch Banking). I felt the

stress of the job was affecting me and aggrivating my " stomach pains " which I

have had since December 2003. This together with triple heart bypass surgery 2

years ago made my mind up that I needed to switch roles within the Bank to

something a bit more focussed and less stressful going forward. Also, my wife

has been diagnosed with eye problems which may lead to near blindness with her

in around 10 years.

Since my vacation to USA my position locally has now been filled so I am

somewhat in limbo at present and my boss does not want to discuss future options

until I am well enough to return to work. (I am currently signed off work for 2

weeks following hospitalisation in the USA during my vacation).

I would like anyones views or experience as to employers reactions to this

illness, especially as there may be many days coming up I may feel unwell enough

to attend work. There may also be times that I need to attend hospital for pain

relief or further tests. As I have worked for the organisation for 23 years I

would get a reasonable pay-off with immediate pension and as my wife works as

well, we would manage just fine. My own views are positive towards this. The

rule of thumb seems to be if you have an illness where you probably will not

recover from, and I assume CP falls into this category. I am only 40 years old,

but am sure that if required for financial or sanity! reasons I could pick up a

small job to supplement our income.

Anyones views are appreciated.

Good Health

Colin

Blairgowrie

Scotland

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