Newly diagnosed and lost

Kay17 2 days ago

2 replies
123 subscribers
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I have just been diagnosed with colon cancer, 4 days ago. I feel numb and I think I’m in denial a bit too. When I left my appointment with my diagnosis, I was told I would be receiving lots of calls and appointments over the next few days to go for further testing and make a plan for treatment. However, it has been radio silence. I’ve not had a call or letter at all. Now I’m doubting if I misunderstood, should I be making calls and appointments? I didn’t get given and numbers to call.

CerysM 2 days ago

Hi Kay17,

No you didn't misunderstand, they will call you - try not to worry you are in the system now and my experience has been that the NHS care is second to none. These things take a bit of time and bowel cancer is slow growing so it's not something to panic about just yet. Having said which if you haven't heard anything at all by e.g. Tuesday you might want to give them a nudge if they've given you a number to call (or call the hospital switch board if they haven't). I heard from the CNS nurse the day after my colonoscopy but that was just to say hi - after that I waited a few weeks for the MDT (more below) to meet to confirm the plan.

The plan for treatment will come after they've done all the further tests as each persons plan is individual to them. They'll do all the testing and then the multi-disciplinary team will meet to discuss how best to approach the situation specifically for you. They'll then discuss that plan with you.

Wishing you all the best for your treatment!

Best wishes

CerysM

Kay17 2 days ago in reply to CerysM

Thank you so much. I’ve been racking my brain trying to remember every word said in the meeting about next steps. Add that to the horror stories I’ve read online I was clearly adding unnecessary stress to myself.