Employers or HR People - advice please

[Chickadee]

I was made redundant from my last job (part time) just as I was diagnosed with cancer. Following lots of surgery and other treatments I have not worked now for 3 1/2 years.
I now feel well enough to look for a job - although it will have to be part time still.
When I have applied for any jobs mentioning that I have cancer I feel that a wall goes up as soon as the c word is mentioned.
I am now thinking of using the following phrase (or similar) when I apply and wondered how this would be taken - whether you would give that person an interview or whether you would put the application to one side.

"As you can see from my CV I have not worked for the last 3 1/2 years due to personal reasons which would be fully explained should I be chosen to come for an interview".

What do you think please?
Any other suggestions gratefully received, I have always worked until this and I am getting really frustrated that in wanting to work I can't find someone to give me a chance!!
Thanks for any help.

[thugulike]

Hi chickadee, that sounds fine to me. Good luck.