What role does work have in your life? For some, it is a way to be productive, earn a living and support a family. For others, employment may serve as a source of support through positive relationships with co-workers or as a source of enrichment by learning and applying knowledge. Whatever the reason, work is part of our identity, routine and lifestyle. Since our jobs play such a crucial role in our lives, most people prefer to return to the workforce after a brain tumor diagnosis and treatment.
In the workplace, some brain tumor survivors may receive positive support and encouragement from co-workers, and managers. However, others may feel they are being treated unfairly or unjustly or may be denied a position or career advancement. This can result in feelings of hurt, sadness, anger and confusion.
Others may find it difficult to return to their prior job after receiving a brain tumor diagnosis. The workload may be too physically, emotionally or mentally taxing. As a result, some brain tumor survivors may feel like they are at a crossroads and wonder “What do I do now?”
To help address these dilemmas, we have developed a new Social Work resource entitled, “Employment Rights and Job Retraining Resources.” This resource contains up-to-date information which addresses your legal rights as an employee and ways to find job retraining programs to meet your own specific, individual needs.
We hope this information will educate, empower and guide you and/or your loved one on a successful journey back into the workforce.
Below, we have highlighted some informative resources.
LEGAL RIGHTS AND ADVOCACY
Americans with Disabilities Act
ADA Homepage
800-514-0301
800-514-0383-TDD
http://www.ada.gov
The ADA website provides general ADA information and technical assistance materials. Publications can be downloaded through the website or ordered over the telephone. A free CD-Rom, which contains a collection of ADA materials, can also be ordered.
Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF)
800-532-5274 or help@patientadvocate.org
http://www.patientadvocate.org
The Patient Advocate Foundation is a national non-profit organization that seeks to safeguard patients through effective mediation assuring access to care, maintenance of employment and preservation of their financial stability. PAF case managers are available via telephone or email to answer questions. PAF publications on job discrimination and disability are also available. On the PAF website homepage, an informative section entitled, “Employment Related Issues” can be located under the heading, “Resources.”
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (U.S. EEOC)
800-669-4000
800-669-6820- TTY
http://www.eeoc.gov
The U.S. EEOC enforces federal laws that prohibit job discrimination. Live customer service representatives are available to offer assistance between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time and can speak in more than 150 different languages. An automated system with answers to frequently asked questions is available on a 24-hour basis.
The website also contains a listing of district offices and field, local or area offices within a particular jurisdiction. The U.S. EEOC provides publications that are offered in English, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Haitian Creole, Korean, Russian, Vietnamese and Braille. Publications can be downloaded or printed directly from the website and/or can be ordered through their toll-free number.
JOB RETRAINING RESOURCES
America's Career Infonet
877-US2-JOBS
877-889-5627-TTY
http://www.acinet.org
This resource provides information on employment and job retraining programs. Interactive tools for career development as well as online job coaches are available.
Job Accomodation Network (JAN)
800-526-7234
877-781-9403- TTY
http://www.jan.wvu.edu/
JAN is a service of the office of Disability Employment Policy of the U.S. Department of Labor. JAN provides free consulting to increase the employability of individuals with disabilities. JAN educates callers about self-employment options and provides technical assistance regarding the ADA.
Ticket to Work
866-968-7842
866-833-2967- TTD
http://www.yourtickettowork.com/
The Ticket to Work program is an employment program for Social Security Disability (SSD) beneficiaries. This program is part of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999. A major goal of the program is to increase opportunities and choices for SSD beneficiaries. The website contains basic program information, an employment work directory and frequently asked questions.
If you would like to view the entire resource list, please click here.
Also, as found below, we have highlighted excerpts from two ABTA articles that can be found at our website.
“Regardless of whether you are recently diagnosed, a long-term brain tumor survivor, or somewhere in between, the last thing you want to worry about is being treated differently by your employer because of your medical condition…” Click here to read more.
“When diagnosed with a brain tumor, one of the common questions many have is, "Can and will I be able to work?" Although the ability to return to work depends on the needs and situation of the specific individual, many people with cancer, including brain tumors, are returning to, and/or staying at, work...” Click here to read more.
This is just an example of some of the information from our new Social Work resource. If you would like this information mailed to you, please email your mailing address to socialwork@abta.org and we will gladly accommodate your request.
If you are aware of any additional programs and organizations or have comments or questions, please call the ABTA Social Work Department at 1-800-886-2282. We look forward to receiving your input!
The American Brain Tumor Association funds brain tumor research and offers services to patients and family members in the U.S. and throughout the world. Help us spread hope by supporting ABTA in its mission.