Aye J,
Every case is different but many share similarities. When I was still on the job a Sister Officer that worked under my command approached me with a scenario that nearly mirrors the description you have posted with regard to your own. I was really heart sickened o'er the matter as I respected her fully as a great officer and a great friend as well. I told her we would do whatever needed to get her the time off necessary for her treatments and healing / recovery. All of the officers in our unit rallied to her aid. She went through surgeries including a double mastectomy and subsequent reconstruction, as well, she did radiation and chemotherapy treatments. That was well over 10 years ago and she is doing remarkable well today after having returned to work years ago. She fought the fight on her own terms and did so with both resolve, courage, and dignity. It is not easy, I have been there twice and find myself stronger for having done so. Don't get me wrong, I most certainly would have skipped that "party" if I could have, but I also connected with some remarkable people along the way, many are now grand friends that I most likely would never had met otherwise. This is one of life curves, a proverbial bump in the road that I am confident you will get through. You are not alone in this and should ye need to vent or talk, I believe you should still have me cell number, if not PM me and I will forward it to ye. Ye have lots of support here and I am sure ye have a large network o' friends. Call me anytime ye wish, day or night. I am a walking miracle, an elite club that I am confident you will join me in. Ye will remain in me thoughts and prayers dear friend. STAY STRONG.
Faugh A Ballagh,
Mike 🍀🇺🇸🇮🇪