31/12 new cancer diagnosis

Lorr O 15 days ago

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Abnormal cells in soft palate and lymph node in same side of neck. Biopsy of tonsil shows abnormal and cancerous cells I believe as I was not able to understand all of the different Latin sounding ‘cell names’ in the phone conversation. They are treating it all as cancerous and as no scope in soft palate for surgery (too shallow an area I believe) they have recommended radiotherapy treatment.

I meet the oncologist 7/1/25 but have no idea (apart from side effects listed on nhs website) what to expect…

I was hoping abnormal Cells was less ‘serious’ but they have gone to the lymph node… I have not been given a stage definition etc yet.

I’m a driving instructor - only went self employed in Sept and all this happened early Nov. Hadn’t set up insurance yet as always well ‍♀️‍♀️

I have joined this group and the head and neck group

simon IVA 15 days ago

good morning Lori o

so sorry to here what you are going through, you will find help and friends in the Community here , I was diagnosed this year , with stage4a. only really been on here for a few days and the people have been so supportive. also you can speak to a Macmillan nurse if you click on the chat link , worth ago ,iv'e spoken to then a couple of times. good luck on the 7th , write down any questions you have for them, ask if you don't understand , good luck and wish you all the best .

Simon x

Thehighlander 15 days ago

Hi Lorr O and a very warm welcome to the Macmillan Community but sorry to hear about your diagnosis.

You have done the right thing in joining and posting in our….

Head and neck cancer

……. support group.

This group is a safe place to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.….. and so can see that you have already received a few reply’s.

The Macmillan Support Line is open between 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00…… this service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear.

We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow 3 working days for a reply.

Talking to people ‘face to face’ can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing.

Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.

Mike (Thehighlander)

It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

My cancer story

Lorr O 15 days ago in reply to simon IVA

Thanks Simon. I think I’ll feel better one I know more. Not knowing things like whether surgery is not needed with the radiotherapy or if it’s just not possible due to the growth being on the thin soft palate. I don’t know if the fact the cells are not yet cancerous in two if the affected sites makes them easier to destroy either. Ah well all will become clear next week.

simon IVA 15 days ago in reply to Lorr O

you keep strong , the waiting is the worst , the things that run through your head, not easy , try to concentrate on your usual things you do keeping busy helps to take your mind off things.

Simon x