When cancer becomes a topic of conversation during a job interview.
BY Ryan Hamner
PUBLISHED April 23, 2018
Ryan Hamner is a four-time survivor of Hodgkin lymphoma, a musician and a writer. In 2011, he wrote and recorded, "Where Hope Lives" for the American Cancer Society and the song for survivors, "Survivors Survive" used in 2015 for #WorldCancerDay. Currently, he operates his website for those affected by cancer, 2surviveonline.com and drinks a ridiculous amount of coffee per day.
"We saw your website on your resume and checked it out. I know I probably shouldn't ask you this, but did you really have cancer four times," the lady said, during my interview. Normally I wouldn't have a problem talking about my experience with cancer - heck, I'm the one that ended our relationship. Yeah, we were kind of back and forth there for a while, but in the end, I just put my foot down and said you gotta' go.
Back to this asking about cancer thing, during an interview, really? Oh yeah, and just for the record, asking probably wasn't the smartest decision you've ever made. Then again, me putting anything on my resume that could lead to you finding out about me having cancer four times probably wasn't the best idea either.
Look, I know cancer is somewhat fascinating, a bit mysterious and people want to ask questions about it sometimes - great - ask away. Most people do ask out of genuine concern for my health. However, don't ask about my cancer during an interview for a job. It's the second time this has happened. Although last time, the guy was so clever he asked what my medical bills were like.
"You know, just a rough estimate," he said while sitting in his leather office chair.
Back to this asking about cancer thing, during an interview, really? Oh yeah, and just for the record, asking probably wasn't the smartest decision you've ever made. Then again, me putting anything on my resume that could lead to you finding out about me having cancer four times probably wasn't the best idea either.
Look, I know cancer is somewhat fascinating, a bit mysterious and people want to ask questions about it sometimes - great - ask away. Most people do ask out of genuine concern for my health. However, don't ask about my cancer during an interview for a job. It's the second time this has happened. Although last time, the guy was so clever he asked what my medical bills were like.
"You know, just a rough estimate," he said while sitting in his leather office chair.
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