I have been lucky enough to have an employer that has stuck by me though the good and bad times of my chronic illness. During the harder times of my ME/CFS, I had a number of supportive phone calls from a lovely lady in the HR department. She would always reassure me that whenever I was ready, a return to work plan would be put in place for me to return back to work. There was never any pressure, just the simple message of we are here when your ready.

Over the months the thought of work seemed impossible. I work in customer service, the thought of dealing with people again sounded like hard work. I kept telling those thoughts in my head that it would happen one day.

18 months down the track and I have finally stepped back into the working world! Oh the feeling, the joy and excitement of returning back to work! To be back at work again is a major achievement!

It has been going pretty well, of course I have had some bad days that’s a given. But I have also had some great days at work. My hours have started off very slow and will be increasing gradually. I have currently just moved up to 3 hours a day, 2 days a week! Woohoo!!!

Being able to work again has given me a sense of normality. The social environment that work brings is wonderful. It definitely beats being stuck at home alone all day.

I am extremely thrilled to be working again!!!

I’m just taking each day as it comes, one day at a time!

Lennae xxx