…then cancer struck
She’s been a member of the unit for a little above 3 years before she was diagnosed with cancer.
It would take only a person who has survived the horror of cancer to understand her situation. The pain, the stigma, and the emotional trauma of thinking oneself into none existence. It was even worst for her, since she lived all by herself, far away from family and friends.
So, she kept it to herself, but in no time the story of her missing at work, and late delivery of tasks became the pattern. It took the team lead to get her into opening up. Unknown to her, this heart to heart talk began the unexpected journey.
The team lead respected her wish to keep this within the team. Got the unit around her for support. Took over her responsibilities. Created a roster showing how team members could spend time with her at home, and more.
Unfortunately, her situation did not improve despite the resources expended. Everything that could make her better pointed to her being flown abroad for treatment. In her depleted and deflated situation, the team lead had no choice but to engage the management, even against policies, demanding that management sponsors this medical trip.
To the surprise of many, the organisation took over her care, and luckily she survived the horror of cancer.
Imagine you are the survivor, what will you do differently at you return to the team?
Dear leader, here are 6 leadership lessons from this story:
…When leaders build trust they are trusted beyond the workplace.
…Care is at the center of true leadership. The people see the leader before his vision.
…When leaders build a culture that cares for a team member in need, other members feel cared for.
…Great leaders go the extra mile for their team.
…We spend most of our time at work. It shouldn’t be a nightmare.
…Our team members are fighting their personal battles, if only we know, we would be more gentle with them.
