Being diagnosed with cancer naturally comes with questions — from understanding your diagnosis and treatment, to wondering how to share the news. And while every situation is different, the question often arises: What about work or school?
 
Some people prefer to keep their cancer journey private, while others may decide to inform co-workers or classmates right away.
 
When deciding how to share a diagnosis at work or school, it can be helpful to consider the “five Ws”: who, what, when, where, and why. Thinking through these considerations can help ensure that conversations go more smoothly.
 
WHO
Before sharing a cancer diagnosis at work or school, think through who needs to know. Will cancer treatments, side effects, and appointments impact your co-workers or classmates? If you will be absent for a period, will you need others to help support school or work projects? Is sharing with a supervisor or your teachers enough, or will you need to talk with human resources or student disability services?
 
Connecting with peers to share your diagnosis and how it might impact your work can lead to more empathy, support, and understanding from others — especially when you need to lean on them. Institutional supports can ensure you have accommodations and access that fulfill your legal rights.  
 
WHAT
Consider what you want others to know before sharing a diagnosis. You may or may not decide to share specifics about the cancer type, stage, prognosis, or treatments. Your care team can help you determine how appointments and treatment may impact your life and work. Conversations with colleagues and classmates may include sharing anticipated schedule adjustments, time off, or accommodations that you might need during or after treatment.
 
In general, only share as much as you are comfortable with, and don’t be afraid to tell someone “I’m not ready to talk about that right now.” You can also set boundaries with co-workers and classmates about what you are and aren't comfortable discussing.
 
WHEN
Deciding when to share a cancer diagnosis is a personal decision. You may not feel ready to talk about it with colleagues and classmates at the beginning of a diagnosis and might prefer to wait until you are further along in your journey. You could decide to share your diagnosis before a planned absence for treatment or surgery. It's important to remember you are in control of when to share your diagnosis with others, so make sure that the time is right for you. 
 
WHERE
When telling colleagues and classmates, some people prefer sending a blanket email detailing their situation, while others prefer to speak to people in person, whether in a group or individually. If you decide to share your diagnosis with others while at work or school, it's a good idea to find a private place with minimal disruptions.
 
Just as each cancer patient reacts differently to their diagnosis, your peers and colleagues will too. Some people may become emotional and ask lots of questions, while others might say nothing, afraid of saying something wrong. Wherever you decide to share your cancer diagnosis, make sure that it's a comfortable environment for you, where the other person can give you their full, undivided attention.
 
WHY
Although it can be scary, sharing your diagnosis with those around you can make all the difference in how you are supported during your cancer journey. You may be surprised by the emotional strength others can provide or thankful for the people who step up to help with your workload. Everyone’s cancer journey is unique. The most important thing to remember is doing what feels right to you.