Hi (also posted on kidney cancer forum)
I've found myself here, but still in disbelief. I don't have any risk factors. Where has this come from?
Was feeling fine other than likely work stress related pains. Scan showed a small renal mass.
Now waiting to see a urologist - 1 week down, but no appointment yet. How long is 2ww these days?
Have told my manager but not my team at work. My sleep has been affected and I mostly feel anxious but work is a distraction for now.
(NB 56 year old female, non-smoker, weekend glass of wine, just tipping onto BMI 25, ran a half marathon a couple of years ago - try to stay healthy.... well that didn't work out well!!)
Hi Smiles and a warm welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to hear about your diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis can come out of the blue, I also lived a very healthy life but back in 1999 when I was 44 I was diagnosed with a rare incurable skin Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma but to date we have always found the next treatment to deal with it.
This can be such a stressful and challenging time but talking with others who are walking the same journey can help so I do hope you will find the community a safe place to get support.
The New to Community is like our reception desk where we can signpost you to our various cancer support groups and other services but well done joining and posting in the Kidney cancer group. This will be a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
The Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear and our Cancer Nurse Team in our Ask an Expert section helpful but do allow a few working days for a reply.
To find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers check our Online Information and Support Section.
Talking to people face to face when on a cancer journey can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area.
Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre in your area as these folks are amazing and provide support for all the family.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best ((hugs))
Hi Mike, Thank you for your reply.
I'll be loitering for a while, whilst waiting for my appointment with the specialist.
I'm sure I'll have questions and concerns but hopefully will have a better understanding once I've had my appointment.
It sounds like you have had quite a tough journey, thank you for being here to catch the newbies.
It's not something you can easily put down, is it?
I'm going to start a notebook to jot down when I think of something that's bothering me. At least then I may not feel like I'm carrying all the questions and thoughts
Have a good evening - I'm going to take the dog for a walk - she makes me smile 
Hi Smiles, a note book is very important as it brings order to both your thoughts and to what you need to ask. I have a few note books going back over my years.
All the very best.
