Waiting for results

Hi Leo, luckily I have private medical with work, just hoped going private would speed things up a bit but does not sound like that will be the case. Yes we are extremely lucky to have the NHS, like everyone says, it’s the waiting that is sometimes so hard, reading some journeys on here it seems less than 3 weeks is quite good so counting that blessing

I completely agree, I can see the costs each time I have something done, but I've never totalled it up and I don't really check my account.

There is no way I could fund it myself.

The NHS is so important and we need to keep it.

Hi Trevor thank you for your reply, like you I have insurance through work so it would be an option, I hope all is going well for you and I will keep fingers crossed I do not need a second TURBT. I sure I will have lots more questions after Thursday

Hi SharonO . Macmillan has provided comprehensive information on BC HERE .  Try not to get too far of yourself. This is a one step at a time process. Also, stay away from Google as there is lots of misinformation and out of date stuff out there. Stick with us. Best wishes.

Hi SharonO

If you look up Bladder Cancer on the Macmillan website in Cancer Types it explains the different types of Bladder Cancer, the tests that are carried out, how the Grade and Stage are decided and what treatments are available for the different types of Bladder Cancer. You can also request booklets to download or to be sent through the post. If you are like me, I wanted as much information as I could find so that I could make an informed decision/choice as to which type of treatment I wanted. This site is really good as you can look and read about  each step of the cancer journey.

As for me I was diagnosed with a high grade aggressive Cancer which luckily was not Muscle invasive. I was offered a Cystectomy (Bladder Removal) or BCG Immunotherapy. I could not even contemplate a Cystectomy so have opted for the BCG therapy. I have now had 6 sessions which is called the induction. Now I have a little break from it and another cystoscopy (camera) to check that my Bladder is coping OK with the treatment. 

We will all be thinking about you on Thursday.  

Sending you love and hugs Ade xx

Hi Sharon,

It's possibly something to consider, but a completely personal choice. I have quite socialist views normally, so seems strange to me sometimes. 

The process of moving from the NHS to private was seamless and as rily said the surgeon also works for the NHS so you could get the same person.

I rarely used the NHS up to this point, but I was very impressed with how quickly things moved.

Things are going well for me touch wood, my last biopsy (28th June) came back clear, I feel very lucky so far.

Finger's crossed for your appointment, please keep us all posted.

Take care.

Trevor 

Hi SharonO. I’m new to this all too. I’m a consultant ENT Surgeon working in the NHS and privately so know both avenues very well. I can assure you that when it comes to cancer, NHS investigations and treatment are very good and timely and you probably won’t gain much going privately. My diagnosis is T1G2 high grade and I’m due my second TURBT this Thursday (in my NHS Hospital). I have used my private medical cover but only to obtain a 2nd opinion as I’m still not sure whether I will go for BCG or radical cystectomy depending on the results of 2nd TURBT. I need to have as many opinions as possible and the advice and help in this forum is just outstanding. Best wishes.

Hi SharonO,

 I was diagnosed with a high grade cancer, with a high risk it will recur. That is the reason my treatment is for 3 years, and I will be monitored for 10years. It wont be the same for all, I think it will depend on biopsy result

I feel It is an absolute blessing that they will keep such a close eye on me for a long time. However, I didnt feel that way when first diagnosed, I just felt overwhelmed, frightened and angry. Good luck for thursday, it will feel less frantic when you have your results and a plan in place .

Hi Rily, thank you for that I will take a look, yes I am staying away from google, only used it to look up what TURBT meant, but it did help me find this wonderful forum

Thank you Angela x