The impact of a cancer diagnosis at work: two women’s stories  

Elizabeth was diagnosed with Stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma at just 19 years old. Like many 19-year-olds, she was juggling work, a busy social life and studying full-time at university.  

The cancer diagnosis forced her to give up her job as a personal trainer and gym sales manager so she could focus on her health. But she was not alone in what she faced. Her experience reflects a growing challenge facing Australians living with and beyond cancer.  

Almost half of Australians of working age diagnosed with cancer are not in the workforce. In FY26, more than 3,000 patients and carers contacted Cancer Council NSW for help navigating the financial impacts of cancer, and more than 86% of those seeking assistance were not working. Cancer Council NSW provided more than $700,000 in temporary financial relief to people experiencing critical financial hardship.  

“My diagnosis had an immediate and significant impact on my ability to work,” Elizabeth says, now 28. “As a personal trainer, my role was physically demanding, and once I began treatment, I was no longer physically able to perform my job.”  

“Overnight, my focus shifted from building my career and completing my studies to simply getting through treatment and giving my body the best chance to recover.”  

Elizabeth had to stop working completely during treatment, quickly exhausting her paid sick leave.  

“I was incredibly fortunate to be still living at home, and my parents supported me emotionally and financially throughout my treatment. I recognise that many people facing cancer don’t have that support.”  

For Margie, remaining connected to work during treatment became an important source of stability. Working full-time in an administrative/finance role at the time of her cancer diagnosis in 2022, she experienced the physical and emotional toll of cancer, yet work remained important.  

“Employment gave me financial stability, structure and a sense of normality during treatment.”  

With support from her employer, Margie was able to work from home, attend medical appointments and temporarily reduce some work expectations while keeping her salary unchanged.  

“Overall, my experience showed me how important it is for employees with cancer to have access to flexible work, clear communication, appropriate adjustments and financial support. No person should feel forced to choose between treatment, income and keeping their job,” she said.  

Stories like Elizabeth’s and Margie’s highlight why Cancer Council NSW is making work and cancer a key policy priority. We are advocating for stronger measures to help people maintain employment and financial stability during treatment and recovery, while investing in research to better understand the barriers people face in staying connected to work.  

For Elizabeth, that support can make all the difference.  

“I share my story because I want others facing cancer to know there is life beyond a diagnosis. With the right support, people can rebuild their confidence, reconnect with their goals and continue creating a future they’re proud of.”  

Every dollar raised this Daffodil Day will help Cancer Council continue investing in life-saving cancer research and support. Together, with your support, it’s all of us against cancer.    

See also: Building a safety net for people when leave entitlements run out