Alzheimer’s,
each word before delivering it, which he ascribes to his methodical working life as an analyst. His most recent role was more junior, with less urgent deadlines than he had worked to previously.
The visual impairment — which is a problem with his brain rather than eyes — is akin to watching buffering on television, he says. Sometimes the information takes time to appear, sometimes he sees it in snippets.
Today, two years after diagnosis, he is still part of the work force. His last contract finished at the end of 2017, so Mr. Banks is job hunting again. It has been hard to strike a middle way between “advertising it in neon lights” and hiding his condition, which he is determined not to do: “That ruins your life.” But equally, he does not want to “burden” people with his diagnosis.
He has sought advice from the RNIB, a UK sight loss charity, which recommended he mention his condition only in the event of a job offer. There is far more support for disabled people already in work, than for those looking for jobs, says Mr. Banks.
His condition should not be a stigma, he says. “It’s not like I’ve done anything wrong.” While he is slower than he once was, his knowledge and years of experience remain. He could not be more conscientious, he jokes.
Mostly, and despite his condition, he does not want a job that falls short of his skills. “I have to find something that suits me.” Mr. Banks’ career has been a great source of pride. “Everything I’ve done, I’ve achieved on my own.”
Making a transition is hard, he says. “There are times in people’s lives when you do have to make changes — there’s very little support ... Other people who aren’t so determined could easily fall by the wayside.” Yet he is making adjustments, seeking analyst jobs that do not have managerial responsibilities. That will be difficult, as he knows he will have to make changes continually as his illness progresses.
Work is more than just a job, he reflects. “It isn’t all about money. It’s about things you do, people around you. Work is life.”