My husband is dying, what is an “easier” career change to make that can support a family?
My (31 F) husband (33 M) is the bread winner of the family and unfortunately was diagnosed recently with stage 4 cancer and has a poor prognosis. We have a young toddler, I’m terrified of not being able to make enough money to get by if/when my husband passes.
I went to school for exercise science, I am actually a cancer exercise specialist but it doesn’t pay that well. What would you do if you were in my situation? What careers are easier to get into that can be lucrative?
Jobadvisor
I am deeply sorry you and your husband are going through this devastating time. Facing a poor prognosis while also having a young child and carrying the financial weight of the future is an immense burden. Your focus right now should be on spending time with your husband and preparing for your family's future, so seeking an "easier" and financially supportive career is a wise and necessary step.
Given your background in Exercise Science and your specialization as a Cancer Exercise Specialist, your best strategy is to look for fields that value your existing healthcare knowledge, compassion, communication skills, and certification experience but that offer higher entry-level salaries and faster entry.
Here are three career paths that leverage your current skills and offer high earning potential with relatively short training periods:
1. Health Information Technology (HIT) or Medical Coding
This is often one of the most accessible and high-demand shifts for those with a medical or health science background. It offers stability, high pay, and often allows for remote work, which provides necessary flexibility.
| Career | Why It's a Good Fit | Training Time | Potential Salary (Entry/Mid-Level) |
| Medical Coder | Translates medical services (what you already understand) into universal codes for billing. | 6–12 months for Certification (e.g., CPC) | $45,000 – $65,000+ |
| Health Information Technician (HIT) | Manages patient data and electronic health records (EHRs). | 1–2 years for Associate's Degree or Certification (e.g., RHIT) | $50,000 – $75,000+ |
How to Get Started:
Focus on Certification: Look for Medical Coding programs that offer a certification like the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) from the AAPC. This can often be completed online in under a year.
Leverage Your Experience: Your work as a Cancer Exercise Specialist shows you are already familiar with diagnosis codes, medical terminology, and patient privacy (HIPAA), which are major assets.
2. Regulatory Affairs or Clinical Trials Administration
Your understanding of the science behind cancer treatment and patient care is invaluable in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or medical device industries. These roles pay significantly more than typical exercise specialist positions.
| Career | Why It's a Good Fit | Training Time | Potential Salary (Entry/Mid-Level) |
| Clinical Trial Assistant (CTA) | Supports the documentation and logistics for clinical research studies. | Short Certificate Program or on-the-job training. | $55,000 – $80,000+ |
| Regulatory Affairs Associate | Ensures medical products comply with government regulations (like the FDA). | Short Certificate or Master's (Post-Bachelors) | $60,000 – $90,000+ |
How to Get Started:
Target Biopharma: Look for entry-level CTA or Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) positions at universities, hospitals, or biotech companies. Your existing knowledge of the cancer patient journey is a powerful differentiator.
Emphasize Your Soft Skills: In your resume, highlight meticulous documentation, adherence to protocols, and patient communication—skills critical for this field.
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3. Specialized Sales (Medical Equipment or Pharmaceutical)
This path can be the most lucrative but also carries a higher degree of performance pressure. If you are a strong communicator, it's worth exploring.
| Career | Why It's a Good Fit | Training Time | Potential Salary (Entry/Mid-Level) |
| Medical Device Sales Representative | Sells specialized rehabilitation, exercise, or clinical equipment. | Minimal training; relies heavily on product knowledge and sales skill. | $60,000 – $150,000+ (Base + Commission) |
How to Get Started:
Start with "Inside Sales": Look for internal or "inside sales" roles in companies that make oncology-related equipment (rehabilitation devices, diagnostics, etc.). This allows you to learn the product and process without immediate, high-pressure travel.
Use Your Network: Reach out to the vendors and representatives who sell equipment to the clinics and hospitals you've worked with. They value people who understand the clinical side.
A Note on Immediate Financial Planning
While you are preparing for a career change, please ensure you have explored immediate financial resources to protect your family:
Social Security Survivor Benefits: As a spouse caring for a young child, you may be eligible for benefits.
Your Husband's Employer: Understand any life insurance policies, retirement accounts, or severance benefits.
Disability Insurance: If your husband has an active long-term disability policy, it may cover some income replacement.
Grief/Caregiving Leave: Some companies offer extended, paid leave for spouses or caregivers.
Focus on the path that gives you the greatest financial security and flexibility to be with your family now. Your unique background makes you a strong candidate for a new, higher-paying career.
What specific area are you most drawn to: Medical Coding/HIT, Clinical Research, or Specialized Sales?
I need to search for the current average salaries and job outlook for these roles to give you the most accurate data.
This is an incredibly challenging situation, and my heart goes out to you and your family. It is courageous and pragmatic of you to be planning for your financial future during this time.
Given your Exercise Science degree and Cancer Exercise Specialist experience, your best strategy is to transition into a high-demand, high-wage field within the broader healthcare industry that values your existing knowledge, but requires minimal additional training time.
The most viable and lucrative options that meet these criteria are Medical Coding and Clinical Trials Administration.
1. Top Recommendation: Medical Coder (A Quick Path to Stability)
Medical Coding is arguably the most straightforward path for someone with your health science background to achieve a significant pay increase quickly and gain the flexibility of remote work.
Salary, Training, and Job Outlook
| Metric | Details |
| Median Annual Salary | $50,250 – $67,680+ (Entry-level can be around $46,000, but mid-career coders with specialization can earn over $81,000). |
| Job Growth | 7% to 8% projected growth through 2034 (Much faster than average). |
| Training Time | 4 to 8 months for a certificate program, preparing you for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam. |
| Key Advantage | High potential for remote work (allowing you to be home with your toddler and husband). |
Why This is an "Easier" Transition
Leverages Existing Knowledge: Your Exercise Science degree and experience mean you already have a strong foundation in medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and pathology (especially oncology). This significantly speeds up the learning curve compared to someone entering cold.
Short Training Time: You can enroll in an intensive, online program and be ready for certification in under a year, providing a fast track to a marketable, higher-paying job.
2 No Patient Interaction: This role is data and documentation-focused, providing mental distance from direct patient care, which may be beneficial given your current circumstances.
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2. Second Option: Clinical Trial Assistant (CTA)
Given your current specialization, moving into the oncology research field—specifically supporting clinical trials—is a powerful career pivot that values your background in cancer care.
Salary, Training, and Job Outlook
| Metric | Details |
| Entry-Level Salary | $46,000 – $70,000 (Entry-level is often titled CTA or Clinical Research Coordinator/CRC Assistant). Some biotech firms pay higher. |
| Mid-Career Salary | Clinical Research Associates (the next step up) typically earn $80,000 – $100,000+. |
| Training Time | Often requires less than 6 months of specialized training or a short, online certificate in Clinical Research Coordination/GCP (Good Clinical Practice). |
| Key Advantage | Directly values your knowledge of patient protocols and cancer care, offering a clear, high-earning career ladder in the recession-proof pharmaceutical industry. |
Why This is a Strong Fit
Contextual Expertise: Hiring managers at Contract Research Organizations (CROs), hospitals, or pharmaceutical companies working on cancer treatments will see your Cancer Exercise Specialist certification as a massive plus—you understand the patient population, the treatments, and the documentation requirements.
Administrative Focus: CTA roles are primarily administrative (managing documentation, tracking compliance, organizing files), which is a lower barrier to entry than being a full-fledged Clinical Research Associate (CRA), which involves extensive travel.
Recommended Action Plan (What I would do)
If I were in your position, I would prioritize the shortest path to maximum income and flexibility: Medical Coding.
Immediate Financial Review:
Consult with a social worker or financial planner immediately about Social Security Survivor Benefits for you and your child, and any disability/life insurance policies your husband may have.
Choose a Medical Coding Program:
Enroll in an accredited online program that specifically prepares you for the CPC (Certified Professional Coder) certification exam.
4 These programs are flexible, allowing you to study when you can.5
Obtain Certification (4-8 Months):
Pass the CPC exam.
6 Your health science background will give you a significant head start.
Target Remote Roles:
Use your new certification to apply for entry-level, remote Medical Coder positions. Emphasize your attention to detail, your health science degree, and your clinical background in your resume.
This path allows you to be present for your husband and child now while quickly building the financial foundation to support your family's future.
Should I choose a career that fits my strengths and interests, or something that is future-proof?
I've taken so many career tests and they always come back with the feedback that I should do something data-focused and with a structured work environment. For example, the ONET/Holland code test I took came back with me scoring very high on Conventional and Investigative. However, all of the careers it recommends for me are careers that are either dying, pay poorly, or are at high risk of automation. I worked as a substitute teacher for a while and it burned me out, and I know its because I'm autistic and it overstimulated me, plus having no routine or real training or direction was a struggle. I also was a manager, and I disliked that also because it was too much social interaction and again I had no clear rules or training. I know I'd enjoy jobs with more routine and structure, but all those jobs are dying. What do I do?
Jobadvisor
It sounds like you're in a challenging but common position, trying to balance your natural inclinations with the realities of the modern job market. Let's break this down.
It's absolutely crucial to acknowledge your strengths and interests, especially considering your autism. A structured, data-focused environment with clear routines and rules isn't just a preference; it's a condition for your well-being and success. Ignoring this would likely lead to burnout and dissatisfaction, as your past experiences have shown.
The good news is that "structured" and "data-focused" jobs aren't dying. What's changing is the nature of those jobs. Many traditional roles that fit the "Conventional" and "Investigative" Holland codes might be evolving or shrinking, but the underlying need for data analysis, organization, and systematic thinking is actually growing exponentially.
Here's how to reframe your search:
1. Focus on Skills, Not Just Job Titles:
Instead of looking for specific job titles that might be outdated, think about the skills you enjoy using and that your tests highlight.
Data Analysis: This is a massive field.
Problem-solving: Breaking down complex issues.
Organization & Systematization: Creating order from chaos, developing efficient processes.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous work with data or systems.
Logical Reasoning: Applying clear thinking to tasks.
2. Explore "Future-Proof" Fields with a Structured Lens:
Many growing fields desperately need people with your strengths. They might not immediately sound like "conventional" jobs, but they involve a lot of structured, data-focused work.
Data Science & Analytics: This is a prime example. While some roles involve presentations, many are deeply analytical, involving coding (which is very structured), data cleaning, model building, and report generation. There are roles that minimize social interaction.
Business Intelligence (BI): Similar to data science, BI professionals use data to help businesses make decisions. It involves dashboards, reports, and understanding business processes.
Quality Assurance (QA) & Testing (especially in Tech): This involves meticulously checking software or systems for errors, following detailed test plans, and often writing automated tests. It's highly structured and detail-oriented.
Compliance & Regulatory Affairs: Many industries (finance, healthcare, pharmaceuticals) have strict regulations. Compliance roles involve interpreting rules, ensuring adherence, auditing, and often managing large amounts of documentation and data.
Cybersecurity Analysis: Investigating threats, managing security systems, following protocols – very structured and data-intensive.
Database Administration: Designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting databases. Highly technical and structured.
GIS (Geographic Information Systems) Specialist: Working with spatial data, creating maps, and analyzing geographical patterns. Can be very structured and analytical.
Technical Writing/Documentation: Creating clear, structured documentation for complex systems or processes. Requires a deep understanding of the subject matter and a methodical approach.
Project Coordination/Management (with a focus on process): While management roles can be social, some project coordinator roles are more about tracking progress, managing resources, and ensuring processes are followed. Look for roles within technical or highly regulated environments.
Research (in various fields): Many research roles, especially in academia, science, or market research, involve meticulous data collection, analysis, and structured experimentation.
3. Consider the "How" as Much as the "What":
It's not just the industry, but also the specific role and company culture.
Company Size & Culture: Smaller startups might have less structure, while larger, more established companies or government agencies often have very clear hierarchies, processes, and training.
Team Structure: Even within a broader field like data science, some teams are highly collaborative, while others allow for more independent work.
Remote Work: This can be a huge benefit for managing sensory input and creating your own structured environment. Many data and tech roles are remote-friendly.
4. Education and Training:
You mentioned your career tests. Now, how can you acquire the skills for these newer, more structured roles?
Online Courses & Certifications: Platforms like Coursera, edX, DataCamp, Udacity offer excellent programs in data science, analytics, programming (Python, R, SQL), cybersecurity, etc.
Bootcamps: Intensive, short-term programs that train you for specific tech roles.
Community College Programs: Often have very practical programs in data entry, database management, or specific software applications.
Degrees: If feasible, a degree in a quantitative field (statistics, computer science, information systems) would be very valuable.
Actionable Steps for You:
Identify 5-7 specific skills you enjoy and that align with "Conventional" and "Investigative" (e.g., "SQL querying," "Excel data manipulation," "process mapping," "statistical analysis," "technical documentation").
Research job titles that heavily use these skills, even if they're not what your initial tests suggested. Look at job descriptions on LinkedIn, Indeed, etc., and see if the tasks sound appealing.
Explore specific certifications or online courses that teach those skills. Try a free introductory course to see if you genuinely enjoy the work.
Network (even if it's uncomfortable): Look for online communities related to these fields. Informational interviews (even virtual ones) can give you insights into the day-to-day realities of different roles.
Start small: Can you volunteer, do a small project, or take an entry-level position that allows you to gain experience in a structured, data-focused task, even if it's not your dream job initially?
Need advice on returning to my old company, what are my chances?
Hi everyone, I’d really appreciate some perspective on a situation I’m in right now.
I used to work at a large national company in a strategy-related role. It was honestly the best job I’ve ever had - the people, the purpose, the sense of belonging. I left mainly for family reasons. My mum was struggling with a painful medical condition at the time, and as her only child, I felt I needed to earn more and have more flexibility.
Fast forward to now: her condition turned out to be less severe than we feared, which I’m grateful for. But I’ve realised how unhappy I am where I am now. The environment is political and unkind, and the work just doesn’t feel meaningful. I’ve already resigned, with two weeks left in my notice. Ideally, I’d love to have some clarity on whether I can return before then, but I’ve also applied for other jobs and arranged a small loan to keep me going for a while.
I’ve reached out to my old company about returning. A family friend who used to be a senior leader in HR there is trying to help me, and as of yesterday, she said the process is still ongoing to find a way to get me back in. One possible path is for me to rejoin through a subsidiary and then be seconded back to my old department for about six months. It’s not perfect financially, but I’d still take it just to be back.
I also contacted one of my former senior colleagues, who spoke to the VP of my old department. The VP was fine with the idea but didn’t champion it strongly because the firm is currently going through a big reorganisation. She passed it on to my former head of department, who then checked with HR about two weeks ago. My old boss tends to be quite pessimistic, and I’m worried that following up directly might come off as pushy or make them close off the idea entirely. For now, I’m waiting for my family friend to help pave the way, though I do feel a bit guilty not checking in with my old head of department.
I also sent a heartfelt email to the VP explaining why I left and why I want to return, mainly about family responsibility, regret, and how much I genuinely loved my time there.
So I’d really like to hear from anyone who’s been through something similar:
Have you ever successfully gone back to your old company? How did it happen for you?
For those who work in HR or management, what do you think my chances are, given someone senior is helping but the company’s still in a reorg that should finish by year-end?
Should I wait it out or check in directly, even if it risks annoying someone?
Any advice or experiences would mean a lot. I still feel like I belong there, and I just want to make the right move without messing it up.
Jobadvisor
This is a very common situation, and it sounds like you have a strong desire to return to a place where you felt valued and engaged. Often, companies are quite open to welcoming back a "boomerangs"—especially a high-performing one.
Let's break down your situation and your chances.
Assessing Your Chances of Returning
Based on the information you've provided, I think your chances are good, though the timing is complicated by the reorganisation.
The Strengths of Your Situation
High-Level Advocacy: Having a family friend who is a former senior HR leader actively working the process is your biggest asset. They know the internal politics, the right people to talk to, and the administrative "workarounds" (like the subsidiary/secondment path). This is far more effective than a typical application.
Expressed Regret and Clear Rationale: Your heartfelt email to the VP, explaining the family reason for leaving, your sincere regret, and your desire to return, is the perfect narrative. It shows you left for a compelling, personal reason, not because you disliked the company or the work. You've already managed the most important part of the story.
Positive Reception (Mostly): The VP was "fine with the idea." This is a green light, not a red one. In a large company, getting a VP to even consider an exception during a reorg is a win. The fact that the process was passed down to your former Head of Department shows it's being actioned, not dismissed.
Creative Path Identified: The subsidiary/secondment route shows that people are invested in finding a solution for you. This often happens when a company wants to retain or regain specific talent but is constrained by a hiring freeze or a reorg that has temporarily closed all standard positions.
The Main Obstacles
The Reorganization: This is the most significant hurdle. A reorg often comes with a temporary hiring freeze, budget cuts, and a lot of uncertainty. This is likely the reason your old boss, who is "pessimistic," hasn't championed it strongly—it's a difficult environment to push for any non-essential personnel action.
The Indirect Route: Rejoining through a subsidiary for a secondment is an administrative workaround, which can take time and requires more sign-offs than a simple direct hire.
Overall, the fact that a specific, viable path (subsidiary/secondment) has been created and is being worked by a powerful advocate suggests your return is being taken seriously.
Action Plan: Should You Wait or Check In?
Given that you are in your final two weeks of notice at your current job, time is of the essence, and you need to handle this delicately.
1. Wait on the Direct Check-In
I advise against checking in directly with your former Head of Department right now.
Trust the Advocate: Your family friend has the best perspective on internal timing and politics. Directly contacting your old boss could be seen as undercutting or pressuring the process your advocate is managing, especially if your boss is known to be pessimistic.
The Reorg Factor: The delay is almost certainly due to HR/Reorg bureaucracy, not a lack of interest from your department. Bypassing the current process might annoy HR or your former boss, especially if they are already stressed.
Actionable Advice: Instead of checking in with your former boss, check in with your family friend who is helping you. Ask if there's any information they need from you to help the process along. This is productive, not pushy.
2. Follow the Subsidiary Path
Make it clear to your family friend that you are fully committed to the subsidiary/secondment path despite the financial implications. Reiterate that your primary goal is to be back with the team and mission you love. This takes a potential financial negotiation off the table and simplifies the decision for them.
3. Focus on Your Current Transition
Since you've already resigned and have other job applications out, you've done the right thing to create a safety net.
Do not stop pursuing other roles until you have a signed offer letter for your old company. The reorg introduces too much risk to put all your eggs in one basket.
The fact that you've arranged a small loan and have two weeks left gives you a bit of breathing room. Use that time to focus on wrapping up your current role and preparing for interviews elsewhere.
Final Thoughts & Experience
Many people who successfully return (boomerangs) do so because they maintain a good relationship and have a clear, positive reason for leaving and returning—which you do.
In my experience, when a senior internal advocate (like your family friend) gets involved and a creative path is identified, it is usually because the company has already decided they want you back and are now just figuring out the bureaucratic way to make it happen under restrictive rules (like a reorg/hiring freeze).
Your best move right now is to be patient, polite, and responsive. Let your family friend be your eyes and ears on the inside, and don't make waves by contacting people directly until she advises you to.
You've done everything right so far. Now you just need to manage the waiting period.
How are you feeling about the idea of the subsidiary/secondment path—is the financial hit manageable for a few months if it gets you back into the environment you love?