Vicki,

When I was first diagnosed and trying to decide how and when to tell people about my illness, I thought about one of the common realities of the workplace (at least it was true where I worked, and I think it's pretty universal). I realized (as you do) that people I worked with would start to detect that something was wrong, and if you don't take control of the story at that point, the rumor mill can start to run wild -- and often wrong. I also saw that there could be plenty of downside to my career if I wasn't completely candid with a few of the key people in my office about my medical condition and what was going to be necessary in terms of time for treatment over several months. (Besides, there would have been no way to hide what was happening to me physically, both in terms of surgical scars and the loss of weight during radiation.)

I hope your husband can recognize that it's in his best interests and yours to make sure the right people in your office know the facts -- and you will probably find that at least some of them will want to give you the support you need at this stage.

Cathy