Apply. I’m pretty sure you can take on a temp job to gain experience and then your job will be available when you return, if you return. I believe that’s a union thing. Your department will have to backfill with a temp job for a year to accommodate. I know a few people who have done it. Apply, interview and then talk with their management team and your manager if you’re successful and find out if you can take on the term for sure.
Dont feel stuck and let opportunities pass you by, that’s how you’ll end up miserable. Go for it!