Pseudomyxoma rediagnosis, the way forward, ice cream and Frank Sinatra!

Hi Cavecrawley

I read your story with interest as I have a close friend and neighbour who was diagnosed with Pseudomyoxoma Peritonei a few years back. The consultant at the hospital here in Cardiff didn't recognise it, they tried two sorts of chemotherapy without success and the prognosis seemed very bleak.

My friend heard about Basingstoke which I understand is the centre of excellence in the whole of the UK for surgery for this condition. There is some available in The Christie but they don't have the specialism of Basingstoke. 

My friend referred herself there and they talked about heroic surgery. She was very anxious but the alternative wasn't good so she thought she'd give them a go. 

The amazing upshot is that her procedure was a complete success. She has been cured and is no more likely than anyone else to develop further cancer. She had the biggest procedure on the NHS that day. She's robust - I wouldn't describe her as fit in the gym sense of the word. She has to take tablets every day and be a little bit careful but hey -  she has a life. 

I just thought I'd share this with you. I heard of another patient in Hywel Dda Health Board who couldn't even get a diagnosis let alone a referral to Basingstoke. She eventually moved to her daughter's house in Chester to access the Christie. 

I hope you get on well with your course of action. xxxx Annie

Hi Annie,

 So pleased to hear that your neighbor had such a positive outcome. The team at Basingstoke are fantastic! I'm due there on Monday for a follow up CT scan.

Dave