Brussels (Brussels Morning – March 19, 2024) Vlaams Belang MP Roosmarijn Beckers emphasized the necessity of comprehensive support for (former) cancer patients in navigating the labor market, underscoring the pivotal role of the organization Rentrée. “Make these guidance options even more accessible and ensure that good guidance is also available for the self-employed,” Beckers urged, drawing from her own journey since being diagnosed with cancer in 2022.
“Today, the number of individuals on extended sick leave surpasses that of the unemployed,” Beckers highlighted, noting the staggering statistic of 26,000 working-age Belgians diagnosed with cancer annually. “While many can eventually return to work, the journey is often fraught with challenges like fatigue, cognitive impairment, or physical limitations,” she shared, citing her personal struggle with lymphedema affecting her ability to write and type.
Beckers stressed the myriad uncertainties faced by ex-cancer patients regarding job reintegration, from part-time options to disclosure concerns. “This underscores the critical need for accessible, tailored guidance for every patient,” she asserted, pointing to resources provided by Rentrée in hospitals and lauding the organization’s invaluable support.
“Rentrée, established in 2017 with funding from Kom op tegen Kanker, plays a pivotal role in this endeavor,” Beckers acknowledged, expressing gratitude for their impactful work. However, she lamented the apparent lack of tailored support for self-employed individuals, a gap identified by Kom op tegen Kanker.
“It is imperative that individuals receive the necessary guidance to resume work, sustain employment during illness, or pursue alternative career paths,” Beckers emphasized in the Flemish Parliament. “This should be a fundamental right for patients, the unemployed, job seekers, and particularly for self-employed individuals.”
