What’s it like to navigate a breast cancer journey while working at a WWC pledge company? Claire’s story is an inspiring, support-filled example. Read on to learn—in her own words—how leadership and her Saatchi & Saatchi AU colleagues provided her with strength and support.
"I was diagnosed with bilateral, multicentric breast cancer in October of 2023.
Working for a Publicis Groupe brand means I was aware of the support that existed for me from the moment of diagnosis and that played a large part in getting me through those first days/weeks/months while I tried to process what was happening. It seems trivial, because I had no idea what was going to happen to me, but I knew my job was protected and I wasn't going to go broke trying to stay alive.
The days after my diagnosis are a blur, but I do remember every conversation with leadership began with how I would be supported. Leadership went out of their way to ensure I knew they had my back, were focused only on my recovery and I would lead the way in terms of workload and working hours. There was no stigma, no worry, no confusion — I was stepping away to get well, I would work as and when I could, colleagues would step in and pick up my workload, but I was still a valued part of the team and I'd be back as soon as I was well again.
Having such an open workplace and a policy already in place, and due to the lack of stigma surrounding my illness (and how it would be handled at a business level), my colleagues have kept in touch which has widened my support network. I don't feel disconnected from my work. No, I'm not there, but I can join staff meetings, catch up with my team over Teams, phone or email and so many people check in and spur me on to keep fighting on the days I really don't want to anymore, or feel isolated… Yes, I'm extremely lucky I work with the people I do and I feel I would be supported no matter what, but knowing the policies exist turns something that could be a significant stressor (my job and livelihood), into a beacon of support and connection throughout an otherwise harrowing period in my life. "
(Story edited for length and clarity).
