Lung biopsy

Hi Ladybugbugfc1c0e,

Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the Online Community. I’m Heidi one of the Cancer Information Nurses here on the Macmillan Support Line.

Thank you for sharing what has happened so far. It is understandable that you are finding it hard to concentrate on anything else at the moment. It’s natural with your previous diagnosis to be thinking about cancer.  

Uncertainty can be one of the hardest feelings to deal with and waiting for your procedure and then results can be very stressful. Managing the time waiting to know what is going on can feel overwhelming, but there are things you can do that might help.

These might include preparing any questions you have and writing down any worries to discuss with your hospital team. Keeping active and eating well can help bring a sense of feeling in control. Relaxation techniques and distraction can help, but do things you like to do, be kind to yourself.

It can help to take each day at a time, focus on what you know so far, and that you have a very thorough team who will want the best outcomes for you. Although I appreciate it can be hard try to challenge any intrusive thoughts.

If you are feeling that it is difficult to cope it is very important that you reach out for support from your GP. If you feel comfortable try to speak with a trusted person at work, your manager or HR. Your resilience can be affected by what you have been through before and it is important that work is understanding and supportive of this. Sometimes work can be a distraction, but if it all feels too much at present, then do ask your GP for some time away. Your work may also be able to make some adjustments that make things more manageable for you.

It is okay to chase your hospital appointments, ask about time scales and your follow up with the specialist team for results.

Sometimes reaching out to others who understand what you are going through can help. You may find it helpful to post on the online Community to speak with others who are in a similar position and find that you’re not alone with what you’re experiencing.

If you feel it would help to talk things through, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 0808 808 0000. We are here every day from 8am to 8pm and would welcome your call.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch again if we can support you further.

Best wishes

Heidi

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 email us. 

Ref/ KG /HC 

Thank you so much for your reply. It feels very nice to be acknowledged. As I don't actually have cancer right now, I was concerned because I don't actually have cancer right now...

It's awkward. 

Thank you.