Hi Neil,

Thanks for writing to us. It’s great you’ve discovered that working with animals is something you genuinely enjoy and are thinking critically about how to do it in a professional capacity! Many cancer patients and survivors say that their experience has served as a catalyst for change in their lives and are eager to find a job that is more fulfilling personally and professionally. A good first step (if you haven’t done it already), would be to research types of jobs that involve working with animals and the levels of experience/qualifications they require. You may want to think about setting up information interviews with people that have jobs that spark your interest (including those you currently work with at the stable) -you never know what opportunities and/or advice may come of these conversations. You might also want to research additional volunteer opportunities in your area. 

I've sent your question to our career coaches for their insight, but in the meantime I would suggest checking out the following resources to help guide you with next steps:

• Webinar recording on career change: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/community/videos/bwc/career-change
  

• Article on cancer as an inspiration for career change: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work/exploring-your-options/cancer-as-inspiration-for-career-changes
  

• Informational Interviews: https://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work/interviewing/informational-interviews
  


• Article on job-hunting after cancer treatment: http://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/looking-for-work/exploring-your-options/job-hunting-after-cancer-treatment
  

I hope this is helpful. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us at cancerandcareers@cew.org or 646-929-8032.

A coach will be in touch soon!

Kind regards,

Nicole Franklin, MPH

Manager of Programs

Cancer and Careers