How did my first hours go?

Well, I got emotional having breakfast, I couldn’t really eat anything. I took my time getting ready and I think I felt mentally prepared.

I recorded a video on Instagram and got a bit emotional at the end. I don’t know why … it’s not because I didn’t feel ready, I think it’s just because it’s a big step and overwhelming and probably tears of happiness because I’m returning to work. ☺

I got emotional on the way to work on the 3 minute walk it takes, my boyfriend walked me into work which I was pleased about ☺

It was a really nice, easy day. I think it’s more about getting in the building at the moment without too much focus on work.

I sat with my manager for an hour outside and we had a return to work chat which was nice and helpful and put me at ease.

I saw a few members who were really pleased to see me which was nice, I felt missed and it was really nice to see those I did. I stood at reception for a little bit but only about half an hour or so. I then read some info regarding the gym reopening and all the covid procedures etc I did this in the staff room, somewhere quiet, this was nice because I’d been around quite a few people for the first two hours.

I then saw my manager again and did an e-learning module that I needed to do.

After that it was time to go home.

It felt strange being back, quite hard and tiring. I think I was thinking a bit about the reason I’ve been off work and it was a bit of a reminder about why I’ve been off. I guess I felt a bit sad about what had happened to me and that my relationship with/priority of work has changed but also grateful that I’m able to go back so soon after my stroke.

I could tell people who knew and who didn’t know which I think is a good mix.

My colleagues were lovely. I’ve had a couple of messages since from managers to say well done and asking how I feel, it’s nice that they’ve checked up afterwards.

The first day is out of the way now which was a big step ☺ I’m really proud of myself. I know it might not seem like a big deal, I know there might be people who think it’s strange that it’s taken a lot for me to return to work and that I’m writing about it but it is a big deal to return after a stroke especially during a pandemic. I’m obviously worried about covid-19 but equally I want to get back into working to give me more purpose again. One thing I’ve realised is that I’m not a person who can’t work, however having a balance is important and a priority.

I’ve actually done a smaller shift of 2 hours and a shift on Monday of 4 hours. My next is 4 hours tomorrow.

It was definitely easier the second and third time going in. On Monday I was helping on reception for an hr or so which was quite hard work and tiring. It was a good test for stamina, multi-tasking, remembering certain things and learning new procedures. I did feel a little slower than I used to be though. Also seeing if I remember people’s names is a good test. My memory doesn’t seem to have been affected too much but knowing names is something I was good at and hope I haven’t lost ☺. I also did some e-learning again which was good for my concentration and memory as well.

I’m enjoying being back and looking forward to tomorrow. Slowly does it though, I am feeling more tired again building something else back into my routine but listening and resting/having a nap if I need to.

Thank you as always for reading 🙏🦋🙏