Hi I'm looking for some reassurance if possible. I received my diagnosis on 12 April - adenocarcinoma in the bowel. There's no evidence of it having spread (CAT and MRI scans). I was initially told my operation would be towards the end of May I was told today that it is more likely to be June. I'm worried that it might spread if I have to wait too long - but I don't know how long that would be. Any guidance will be received gratefully!
Good afternoon Bilkofan,
Thanks for getting in touch, and welcome to our online community.
My name’s Karla, I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.
It’s great to see you’ve posted in our bowel cancer forum and hope you can connect with other members soon (it’s worthwhile joining this group). Your introduction was very honest and witty. I’m sure many here can relate to what you’ve said.
I appreciate your concerns about the timing of your surgery. When you’re diagnosed with cancer, you just want things to move quickly.
You’ve probably had tests, like a biopsy and the scans you mentioned, to diagnose the type, grade and stage of your cancer. Your treatment is then planned by a team of health professionals called a multidisciplinary team (MDT). They work together to plan the treatment and timescales they feel is most effective for you taking all the aspects of your cancer and how it’s affecting you into account.
There are waiting time targets to start treatment. In England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland the current targets are:
We know through research that if most people are treated within these timeframes, their cancer won’t change significantly, and it won’t affect the success of their treatment.
We rely on the consultants to assess who needs be treated urgently and who’s treatment can be safely planned over a longer time.
I understand why you’ve contacted us but only your consultant can say whether it’s safe for you to wait until June for your surgery.
We’d recommend getting in touch with your consultant’s secretary or your nurse specialist (if you have one) to let them know about your concerns. They should be able to explain why things are taking longer than you expected and explain what the next steps will be. If it isn’t safe to wait that long, your treatment should be prioritised.
I hope this helps to point you in the right direction.
Sometimes it can help to talk through what’s happening with us on our support line. If you’d like to talk, we’re available 7 days a week from 8am – 8pm on 0808 808 0000. You can also get back in touch here. Don’t hesitate to let us know if you need anything.
Best wishes,
Karla
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist.
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref: KS/BG
