The doctor is correct. Few are able to go back to work a few weeks after, and some never, like myself, but mine was from chemo alone. Radiation continues to work just as long as treatment lasted, so the continued side effects will continue. Most feel the best recovery at 3 months post treatment, but doesn't mean every side effect will cease then. It takes time, up to a year for some things, and some things like dry mouth, taste changes take longer, if it ever fully recovers. Rushing back to work can cause setbacks, more time off, illness. His doctor seems to be more realistic, and would be guided by he or she with small goals accomplished before jumping into the fire. Is he doing light exercising, such as walking, has adequate nutrition, hydration, no weight loss, and how is his strength and endurance. In my mind, I'm as strong, probably as stubborn, as an ox, but realistically, I'm more in line with a mouse, and know what my limitations are. It is frustrating not even being 50% what I was pre cancer almost 4 years ago, when I was relatively healthy, strong, 48yrs old, working, which job sometimes required my physical attributes. It was, is, difficult to take a back seat when I was the driver in most everything, but it can be done, and everything will have its time and place.

Good luck.