Emily's return to work story
Emily Matheny, 34, says making big changes to her working environment and being able to experiment with different ways of working has enabled her to flourish.
“Returning to work after brain aneurysm surgery can be incredibly challenging, particularly when dealing with partial blindness, energy deficits, cognitive difficulties, new sensory challenges and mental health struggles. My journey back to work was marked by significant obstacles.
“Initially, I faced immense difficulties in adapting to my new limitations. The partial blindness affected my ability to perform tasks that were once routine, and the cognitive challenges made it hard to process information and stay focused. Additionally, the sensory overload from my environment often left me feeling overwhelmed, and the mental health battles added another layer of complexity.
Despite these challenges, I found strength and resilience. When I felt it was a difficult work environment for me, I made the tough decision to leave. This was a pivotal step towards reclaiming my peace and wellbeing.
“I transitioned into an environment where my new colleagues and supervisors understood and respected my condition. They fostered a space where I could experiment with different ways of working to see what might be effective for me. This supportive setting allowed me to adapt at my own pace, gradually improving my abilities and I am now working on my confidence.
“With time, patience, and the right support, I am beginning to flourish. This new environment not only has respected my limitations but also recognizes my potential, providing me with the flexibility and understanding needed to succeed. Now, I am slowly finding peace and thriving in my work, showing that with the right support, it is possible to overcome even the most daunting challenges.”