Question:
Are the emotional and physical changes too much to consider taking a job promotion?

I was approached a couple of weeks ago and asked if postponing my surgery was an option due to a possible career advancement opportunity. I said that I was unable to postpone surgery (and that was respected). Today, that advancement was announced as an "in house" job posting. As I have been approached by all the "higher ups" again today to consider the position (apply for it). I am concerned that I would be taking on too much too soon after such a major surgery. The position is supervisory and I know I have the ability to succeed under normal circumstances I am just concerned about the timing. The interview would be about a week post-op and the position would start as soon as I returned from leave. Can anyone give me their opinions on how the emotions and physical changes during the first year post op (there is a 1 year probation period on the promotion) would play into the job stress that a promotion can impose.    — smummert (posted on March 23, 2001)

March 23, 2001
Sounds like you employeers are being considerate of your position,also you have a firm grasp on what to expect from the surgery. You can prepare for this, have your close friends, famity ect.. help you watch for signs of depression and seek treatment right away. Actually you may not even get depression, not everyone does. I think that you should just go for it. Only positive things will happen, you'll be loosing weight, attaining new career goals, what could be better. One will deter you from getting depressed about the other, say ok, jobs kinds of stressful right now, but look how much weight i've lost, or vice versa. A balance. Anyway I really think you can do it, but you might want to do the interview at a different time, at least if you having an open surgery. good luck.....
   — [Anonymous]

March 23, 2001
I was approved for surgery last March, with a date set in June. In April I applied for a job (with another company and broader responsibility), and started it May 1. When I negotiated for the position, I advised them I would be out for 3 weeks for surgery in June. I did not find it to be any problem at all, either in the way I dealt with things or the way the company did. As it's turned out, the surgery went great, the job sucks, but c'est la vie! I feel much better about interviewing as a normal sized person :) - Kate -
   — kateseidel

October 30, 2001
Susan, go for it. I a, having surgery 12-12-01 and have already accepted a new position to start approx mid Jan. In addition to the new job I will be moving to another state. I look at all of it as opportunity to improve. My decision for surgery only makes me more determined to succeed. It will be the best thing for me. I am nervous about taking on so much at one time but I have friends that will help with whatever I need. Good Luck!
   — Dottie C. B.