I was so pleased to find a Retired/Inactive Nurses forum here.
I reached a point with stage iv breast cancer that prevented my responsibly caring for patients, but was fortunate enough to work for a flexible agency and I was allowed to work with students and interns by meeting with them at my home and using secure VPN computer technology so I could sign off on their charts, etc.
Inevitably, the disease reached a point where I was no longer reliable enough to do that. It feels so bad. I understand why the clinical director asked me to take medical retirement. It was the only reasonable and responsible decision, but it still just hurts.
I am fortunate enough to have a second, non-nursing skill set so I can still support myself, but it just hurts.
Aside from the hurt, I miss my practice. I loved working with people who have chronic psychiatric conditions, and I loved (most of!) my colleagues. I miss it so much.
I'd love to hear from other retirees about how you deal with this, if you experience it, too. Thank you so much.