Waiting Game

Less than one minute read time.

Hello

I was wondering if anyone can tell me how long they waited until they had their first Chemo session. My dad was diagnoised 6 weeks ago and it may be another 2 weeks until his first chemo appointment - is this normal? I guess we all worry and just want things to move as quick as possible.

Anonymous
  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi

    I had surgery prior to having chemo so that may well make a difference (had to heal first). I had surgery 30th June and started chemo 25th August. Of course you want things to move as quickly as possible, and you will worry. I'm sure someone who has had chemo straight after diagnosis will be able to give you a better idea.

    Hope all goes well for your dad.

    Angela x

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi

    I had surgery on 15th September and would have started chemo I think as soon as I had recovered well enough from the operation. The only reason it's being delayed is because I'm going through IVF first. My IVF will finish around 2nd November and I'm meeting the oncologist on the 4th to plan a portacath to be fitted and the first chemo session, which will be very shortly after.

    I don't know if this helps at all, because everybody's cancer/treatment is different. But I'm sure there are lots of people on here who are or have been in a similar position to your dad who can better advise you.

    It's a worrying time and in addition to the support you'll get here, you can also call the Macmillan people. They will also be able to give you loads of advice and help.

    I wish you/your dad all the best.

    Monna x

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hiya... i was diagnosed with Ovarian cancer on the 29th april..i had surgery on the 8th june n was told i was told on the 10th of july that i needed needed chemotherapy ...i started my 1st cycle on the 4th september...i dont know why i waited so long...but i had to have a GFR test n CT scan before chemo cud start...so maybe that was the reason for the delay. The waiting is the worst bit isnt it....i hope you hear something soon...like you said you just want to get things moving on...good luck n best wishes to your dad n all your family...

    Love Sharon xxx

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    I had surgery for breast cancer on 30 April then had first chemo on 16th June.  I think they told me they like you to start chemo no more than 9 weeks after surgery all being well, and that may only be protocol for BC. It may be different for other types of cancer and indeed if you have had any surgery first or not. I just always tell myself that the Drs know what they are doing and they wouldnt make you wait if they thought it would be a problem. Try not to worry (which I know is easier said than done).

    All the best

    Love Chrissi xxx

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi,  I was told on the Friday I had cancer and on the following Wednesday started my chemo.  All very quick indeed for me but so glad it was that quick.  Double check with your hospital.  All depends i think if your dad has had operation or not first.  

    all the best

    Belinda xx