The Khayr Cancer Health Initiative (KCHI) has hosted its 18th webinar series, focusing on the theme: “Employment, Workplace Adaptations and Return to Work.” The session formed part of KCHI’s ongoing efforts to empower survivors through advocacy, shared experiences, and capacity building—helping cancer survivors navigate life after treatment.
The guest speaker, Mrs. Abigail Simon-Hart, Co-Founder of The Bricon Foundation, brought both expertise and lived experience to the discussion. A multi-award-winning breast cancer survivor, counselor, and patient advocate, she shared practical strategies to support survivors and those still undergoing treatment in transitioning back into the workplace.
Her presentation highlighted key steps such as open communication with employers, gradual re-entry, awareness of legal rights, and the importance of medical guidance. She also emphasized mental wellbeing, support networks, workplace accommodations, and the value of being kind to oneself throughout the process.
On legal protection, Mrs. Simon-Hart noted that while Nigeria lacks specific legislation for cancer patients, the Disability Law of 2018 can provide safeguards. She encouraged survivors to be aware of workplace rights, demand reasonable adjustments, and resist unfair dismissals.
“If a workplace is not conducive for recovery, survivors should not hesitate to consider a career shift, as mental health and wellbeing remain central to full recovery,” she advised.
Mrs. Simon-Hart, who co-founded The Bricon Foundation in 2016 and now serves as CEO and Trustee, has become a trailblazer in Nigeria’s cancer advocacy space—championing survivors’ rights and promoting body positivity among women who have undergone mastectomies.
Adding her voice, Oluwatoyin Adewunmi, Executive Director of the TamBo Foundation and a cancer survivor, described the webinar as an “excellent discourse and candid conversation.” She noted that it encouraged self-reflection on balancing work and treatment, while calling for more research into corporate Nigeria’s approach to labor laws and accommodations for chronic illnesses.
The discussion was moderated by Suliat Y. Adedoja, CEO of SAY Health Literacy Academy, who stressed the need to educate employers and HR managers on workplace laws to ease reintegration.
The event drew participation from survivors, advocates, and members of KCHI’s Board of Trustees. By sparking candid dialogue and offering practical strategies, the webinar reinforced the urgent call for supportive workplace policies and cultures that uphold the dignity, wellbeing, and productivity of cancer survivors.
