getting back into the workforce

Hi Nathan,

I volunteered for 18 months, joined a local Stroke Hub and Rotary while recovering, which gave me a balanced level of social interaction (important). I think that isolation is something one needs to avoid as it can lead to many other health problems (depression to name one). I also did two Neuropsyc tests which gave me an indication of my cognitive status (important, as you can try to work on your deficiencies). To this day, my short-term memory is not the best and it shows when dealing with people (forgetting, asking the same Q over and over again). Now, I don't go shopping without a shopping list. Also, give yourself time, be patient and stay connected. Don't let other people's ignorance deter you from your path of recovery! Take care, Michael R.

Nathan, forgot to mention that I had to walk away from my previous career due to lack of adequate support in the workplace. Happier now, though. Not sure if you have any Super, but worth while checking the fine print (i.e. what happens if you can't go back to your previous work - can you claim anything?). Maybe, it is worth seeking some sort of legal/medical advice, depending on your overall circumstances. Take care, and happy to answer other Qs you might have. Cheers, Michael R.

Thanks Michael  definitely not going back to previous place of employment as it's not suitable and they haven't really gave much support during all this. Don't want to rush things either as it's only need 9 months post stroke... Just getting itcy feet in getting out again working and what will I do again for work.

Definitely will consider the volunteer stuff to ease my back in and get comfortable. With the current stuff going on in lockdown NSW it has been a bit isolated at times. Not trying to get stuck in a mess lol rehab etc is my outlet at the moment .

Appreciate you input 👌👌

Hi Nathan, First question is did you work for a company or were you a contractor because this makes a big difference to what you are entitled to. Nick M

Hi Nathan,

Here are some words of advice from the Facebook community too. 

Rod Bee
Hey Nathan hard lines on your stroke mate. I too had my stroke in December but mine was back in 2015 so approaching 6 years. But to your question: with your experience driving trucks you may like to consider becoming a driver trainer or have some in role in driver training that would fit with you current skills. That way you can stay in the industry and train new drivers. In any case Nathan do not despair, do not give up… think outside the square… and I wish you every success in you future pursuits.

Duncan Mitchell
Take your time, if you can. I rushed back to work but looking back I should have waited, I had income protection insurance which would have covered me for a while more. My nowex-wife and my employer at the time were both very keen for me to get back bit I wasn't really ready.

Felicity Kemp
I think volunteering is the best way to go first in a job you would like to do. If will build your confidence. Don't over do it though. I agree with Katie

Phillip James Mcdonald
Hey Nathan, great to hear that you keen to get back into things, and the fact that you mentioned that you are ‘ passionate’ about warehouse logistics says to me that you already know where you are headed brother, ❤️🥊

Karen Michelle
My suggestion would be rather than jumping to specific jobs, to have a neuropsych assessment and see a careers counsellor. There's so many possibilities and when you're making big life changes on top of a big life change it's good to dream big.

Ashley George Wright
I went for bus/taxi license and loving it ,9.9.19 I had my cerebellum stroke, I also work on a farm which is great rehab.i work average of 4 hrs per day

Russell King
Go with your passion. Also do some research on the culture of the company. Certain times of the day will be busier so try and work around that. No one can relate to the fatigue unless they have been there. Give it a go.

Urwin Ponninghaus
Hi Nathan, you can do what ever you want to do. I've had 3 small strokes and I still drive a truck (MR). it takes time to get back into driving but if it is what you love then I would say do it.

Lee Moran Cormack
I posted information for Nathan yesterday, I so hope he reads it. Working again will take time, the tiredness is overwhelming sometimes. His warehouse logistics course is a great restart idea and certainly others similar. I hope he finds an exercise physiologist soon to help with other aspects of building confidence.

Frank
Hey mate, I had my stroke May last year(42),and I was a Truckie for 13 years, and I can tell
you that there is a life after a Stoke. I came back into the workforce January and I went through a couple of jobs, my choice, but I now have a job at Bunnings at the DC. I load forklifts for trucks now. SoMe day can be very challenging with my confidence, but as I say, 1 step backwards, 2 step forwards. Get onto OCTEC Employment Service. They are amazing with support for people just like us. They were amazing for me. I hope that I was helpful. Let me know if there anything you need to know👍.

Such great responses! 

Feel free to also call StrokeLine on 1800 787 653 (Mon- Fri 9am -5pm AEST) or email us on strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au to have a discussion.

With kind regards,

Kath (StrokeLine) 

Just thinking out loud. Maybe, sitting down with someone close and writing down ones known short commings and then a list of possible jobs. In my case, top of the list: balance, short-term memory, self-esteem. But, one shouldn't underestimate own (life)experience and survival skills!