My supervisor, Carla Mendoza, asked how Paisley and I were doing before discussing deadlines.

We reviewed the leave arrangements and what a gradual return might look like when I was medically ready.

She told me there was no prize for coming back before I could manage it.

I had forgotten what it felt like to be treated as a competent adult who could also need support.

Naomi helped me plan a budget based on my income, the existing bills, and the possibility that I might rent a small place rather than return to the house.

I did not know what our final arrangement would be, so I planned conservatively.