West London nurse diagnosed with cancer says people don't want employers to know about their health
New research from cancer charity Maggie's reveals that 40% of people with cancer have used annual leave for appointments, rather than telling their employer.
A west London nurse who has been diagnosed with cancer has told us that she thinks people are taking annual leave for treatment to keep what they're going through quiet.
Resarch from Maggie's has revealed that 40% of people in the UK with cancer have used annual leave for appointments, instead of telling their employer about it.
Nancy is a nurse from Hammersmith - she has used disability leave, but explained why she also takes annual leave for treatment.
"I have to use my annual leave to attend the treatment. It's because it will take a day and I really don't want to rush to go back to work after the treatment."
The survey from the cancer charity also found that the main reasons behind why they do it include not wanting to be treated differently by colleagues and worries that it may affect team productivity.
Nancy explained why she thinks people might be reluctant to tell their employers.
"Sometimes whenever you had something like cancer, you would rather keep it in yourself because your self-esteem is too low.
"You would rather not much people know about it."
Nancy also revealed her advice for other people going through cancer treatment.
"It's only a disease - don't let it ruin your life. Stay positive, every time you open your eyes be thankful because it's another day, another blessing. The key is enjoy your life."