Any advice for me?

Thanks Jane I appreciate that. xx

So, the PET scan was like something out of Star Wars! They bring the injection in a leaded case! I know this is routine for the medics, but it felt weird to be on the receiving end of that this morning.

And now, I've got more waiting to do. The chest consultant will review the results when they get in. I am trying to ask when I can actually get to discuss all these tests with another human being, but it is all about remote working and telephone consultations, rather than dealing with someone face to face. Don't they realise that they are dealing with real people? I just need a bit of reassurance.

Instead, I feel like a lab rat! With the sword of damocles above my head! I'm off to drink ALL of the wine. ;) xx

I’m glad you have got the PET scan done.I haven’t had one.It’s so much nicer to see someone face to face but since Covid it seems to be phone calls.It was really good to see a dr in A & E on Friday,though I had a wasted trip for a CAT scan yesterday.You should see someone face to face once all the results are in.I hope you don’t have to wait too long.Enjoy the wine.Love Jane xx

Hi Newbie

It’s a weird thing to have, certainly! It must be so difficult not to be able to speak face to face with someone-I was diagnosed originally pre covid so always saw my consultant for appointments, but things are so different nowadays.

I came home from my diagnosis and had a large vodka, so I hope you can enjoy your wine! And I hope you don’t have too long to wait to actually speak to a real person.

Sarah xx

Be careful what you wish for. Saw the Consultant today, and still well and truly on the hook. Next steps MRI scan and then biopsy. Frightened to death now, it's made it all very real. I just hope they can help me. xx

I really hope they can help you.Do you much support from family and friends ? Love and hugs Jane xx

Thanks Jane, your kindness is appreciated. xx

I'm worried they have found 'something' on my lung but they need to biopsy it to find out what it is. The 'something' can do one! Feeling slightly less shocked today, trying to stay busy and keep positive. It might not be sinister, but the only way to be sure is to biopsy.

There are treatments in worst case scenario, but not sure how effective they are. I can't even consider going near Dr Google right now! I met a Macmillan nurse who seemed lovely, so I may phone her with questions next week. But, of course, getting some Macmillan nurse support yesterday made me think 'worst case scenario'. I can't win this battle with my head!

I've approached my GP and been prescribed some tablets to help me manage my anxiety in appointments. That should help me manage the next steps. I think it's all felt so traumatic because I've been fast tracked on the 10 day process - 3 hospital visits in one week. Scanxiety is a thing!

I think I'm going to have a busy week next week as they are working on getting me through to the Heart and Lung hospital as quickly as they can. More unknowns, but at least closer to an answer.

Hubby very supportive and friends too, not sure I want to tell other family until I know what's really going on. Wouldn't want to worry them. Difficult one isn't it?

Love and hugs too. Appreciate your support. xx

I can imagine you must be a bit dazed by the speed of things.At least you should have some answers soon.Most people feel much better once they know exactly what is going on.I’m glad you have support it does help.These early days of appointments and not knowing are not easy but you will get through them.Love and hugs Jane xx

Hi again Newbie

The battle in your head can be a really difficult one when you’re in this limbo land of not knowing. I agree with Jane in that things become easier when you know exactly what’s going on and any plan going forward. Dr Google is absolutely not your friend at this point! 

At the moment it’s a bit of a whirlwind of appointments-I remember it all too well- but you’ll be getting ever closer to an answer with each step of the process. I didn’t tell my family, apart from my partner until I had a diagnosis and treatment plan, as I knew there would be questions to which I wouldn’t have the answers any earlier and I wanted to save worry. But is a personal decision on what to do as regards that. 

One day at a time, and let us know how you get on.

Sarah xx

I remember the flurry of appointment letters.I was feeling so ill I was just grateful things were moving quickly.I only told my partner,sister and very close family at the start.

Thanks Sarah, you are right one day at a time is where I need to be. Can't keep on functioning at this level of anxiety over 'What ifs?' It's not good for my head. I've made a decision to decorate a couple of rooms in the run up to Christmas. My very own giant personal mindfulness puzzle - colouring in with paint! And it's keeping me busy / sane (just about!). ;) xx