Hi,
I went to the doctor yesterday with 2 small lumps around my anus, and a very dry throat that I keep coughing to clear. Dr said I have a red dot on my left tonsil that she took a swab from, and also examined me and found a lump internally that she couldn’t identify as a haemorrhoid. 12 months ago I was found to have iron deficiency anaemia and after a normal FIT test and normal CT of chest abdomen and pelvis, the anaemia was attributed to my diet and I was prescribed iron supplements. The GP referred me on the 2 week cancer pathway and now I am focusing in on other pain I have previously brushed off and convinced I have cancer in several places. Would appreciate any tips for managing the wait until my appointment comes through. Thank you
Hi Marieangela and a very warm welcome to the Macmillan Community but I am so sorry to hear about your concerns.
Having been on my cancer journey for over 26 years with 4 different cancer types first diagnosed at 43 I know that navigating this journey can be such a stressful and challenging time.
But I have to say that over the same period of time I have been checked out for a few other ‘possible’ cancers but nothing was eventually found…… so in my book until there is cancer confirmed then it’s not.
But should you eventually be diagnosed with cancer you will find talking with and getting support from people who have walked or are walking the ‘exact same' journey can help a lot.
The Community is actually divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms)………… so should you be diagnosed do have a look through this link Cancer Specific Groups where you will find all our dedicated cancer support groups listed.
These groups are safe places to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support from members who are navigating the exact same journey.
As always 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 or just a listening ear.
Talking to people ‘face to face’ can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local 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.
Hi again Marieangela
Based on my 26+ years experience with my 4 different cancers and having been checked out for lots of other ‘suspicious’ things……. don't believe everything you read……. and even then, some of the accurate information is often years out of date as information is only updated on 3-4 years cycles.
Back in 1999 when I was diagnosed with my first cancer the then median survival for my cancer type was 3-5 years…… but obviously this has not been the case.
The simple mindset is…… until you are actually told 100% you have cancer….. you don’t and even if you are diagnosed with cancer…… treatments have developed significantly over the years.
Lets look for clear answers soon.
