Last week was the most I felt engaged and back to normal at work since I returned in November. At times it’s still awkward to go into the office but for the most part I’m over that this is weird every time I go in hump. I went in four of five days and didn’t let much bother me. I did my thing and all was good. And I’m busy, really busy.
The week started with my first in person meeting with a committee I am joining on campus. The DEI Committee was having an “open house” meeting so I decided to check it out. Initially I sat by myself but an Admin I’ve known for years invited me over to her table. She admitted she didn’t recognize at me first (I’m sure it’s my hair). I enjoyed the discussions and meeting what were a lot of new faces on campus. I plan on joining the DEI which has monthly zoom calls and look forward to involving myself more on campus.
Tuesday was a busy and big day for me with our Cancer Awareness Night at our men’s basketball game.I spent most of the morning setting up the gym and then the evening at the game. I was surprised with a presentation at halftime which meant a lot to me after all I have been through. My work over the years and with our student athletes was appreciated and recognized.
Another surprise during the game was seeing a former women’s basketball player call out to me who was very excited to see me. She played at Mercer I think about eight years ago now but still remembered me which was nice and she is in a career I plan on doing for an upcoming alumni athlete story.
Thursday in the office was split between a call I had to go on and ended up lobbying the importance of athletics at the college (some things never change!) I also had to run some website ideas by my boss. Since web pages aren’t live yet when I create them on our management system it’s easier to show my boss on my computer since he won’t be able to access if I email them.
Friday I finally had time to take down our honorary cancer cards from the bleachers and display them the only place I could find and think of in our lobby.
I even answered two questions my replacement had and didn’t give attitude towards her as I am learning to accept the change which is still hard to get over.
While it was an exhausting week, it was also the best I have felt about my job since I’ve come back. I knew it would take time to adjust and it’s a process but I’m slowly getting there. The job is only going to get busier as the spring sports start up the end of this month. There is a lot to write about and a lot of web updating that needs to continue to be done and I’m seeing how this new role can continue to evolve.
I’m not fully over the loss of the old title yet and I’m still full of a lot of resentment towards my replacement but I’m starting to let go of that anger just a little. I’m starting to actually like the new job. I’m starting to feel back and like a part of the department. There’s still a ways to go in full acceptance of the new role but just like with my treatment and surgeries, it’s baby steps as I work towards the big goal. And I’m slowly getting there, one step at a time.
#returntowork #breastcancerbattle #fittingbackin #adjustmentsaftercancer #babysteps #returntonormal
