Jobs in Medical Field for Someone with Lupus and Chronic Pain
Hey everyone. I was in my last year of veterinary medical school when I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus and Fibromyalgia. Because of these diseases, the associated chronic muscle pain, and associated cognitive impairment I am no longer able to work in animal medicine. I love the medical field and was hoping to find a career in human medicine that I can do with my diseases and muscle pain that has a similar salary to what I was previously expecting (around $60,000 per year, need to pay off vet med student loans). Any suggestions for doable jobs in the medical field with my limitations would be greatly appreciated.
, My heart goes out to you reading your story. Lupus can be so cruel and forces many to leave careers that they love prematurely. You are not alone in this. One of our patient leaders wrote an article with some job options: https://lupus.net/living/jobs While these don't specifically all relate to healthcare, I wonder if there are ways to apply some of these ideas in a healthcare space? Perhaps pursuing medical writing or writing for a veterinary/medical publication? Working as an online tutor for others pursuing a healthcare education? I'm not sure what positions are available but it might be worth checking out! Sending warm vibes your way as you navigate this change.
Gabby (team member)
Oh goodness I’m so sorry that you had to leave your job and the field totally. Sadly I can relate. I to leave the hospital and my nursing career after only 9 years. I was in my first semester of my masters degree program for nursing education, and had to drop out. I don’t have any suggestions for something you could do other than maybe billing and coding or something like that. I didn’t work for two years and had to move back home with my family at 32 bc I burned thru my savings. But finally got disability and back pay 2.5 years after leaving work. I haven’t gone back to work and don’t think I ever will be able to. I do some freelance work now that allows me to work when I feel like it. Wish I could be more help. But I do wish you luck and hope you can find something. Big hugs! Amber (lupus.net team moderator)
