Breast cancer radiotherapy

Hi Samie

Welcome to the forum and sorry to hear that you have been diagnosed with beast cancer.  If you feel up to it why not give your oncologist a ring and tell them how the delay in starting radiotherapy is impacting on your mental health.  I know how you feel.  I was told five weeks ago that I needed further surgery and I only got a surgery date today for a week's time.

Hopefully you won't be waiting too much longer.

Best wishes

Daisy53

Hi Daisy, thanks for your reply, I have rang, only to be told there is a long waiting list, my consultants secretary said she would send an e.mail to radiology to see if an appointment is imminent 

Hi Samie, I’m in the same boat. It’s been 12 weeks since my op. Ideally I should have had chemo, but other health issues ruled it out. I’ve read that after 8 weeks there’s little benefit and I’m wondering if the side effects are worth it. It could be weeks before I’m referred due to a back log.

Well that’s a real worry, where did you read that ?

Hi Samie

I had the same cancer as you a year ago. Had my operation at the beginning of July and didn't get my radiotherapy till mid October. (due to poor admin and a mix up over my appointment at the hospital). I queried it with the breast cancer nurses when I got to 6 weeks after surgery, after which I was referred quite quickly to a different consultant at a different hospital. I also had 5 days radiotherapy. I know what you're going through and how incredibly frustrating it is waiting. I agree with Daisy53 - give the oncologist a ring. 

I hope it helps to know that the radiotherapy went really well, with very few side effects and a year on I am cancer free and able to look back on it all with some perspective. Maggies helped me to come to terms with what was happening - if you have one nearby I would really recommend that you drop in - a good cry, some wise words and a cup of tea can really make a difference!

I really hope you get seen soon

Best wishes

Hi Kalulu

thanks for the info, I’m really getting worried now, I’ve even looked at going private but it’s over 20K and even that’s not easy to source! I will ring again tomorrow, I want to put all this behind me and get on with my life.

Hi Samie, I’m not sure where I read that radiotherapy should be no later than 8 weeks. I’ve trawled the internet looking for information. Most cancer sites recommend 6 to 8 weeks. My cancer has not spread to the lymph nodes, but it is grade 3 invasive and all I want is to get the treatment over with. I feel like you, that my life is on hold. I’m on my own and trying to stay positive. Difficult at times. Appreciate hearing Kahulu’s experience. Very encouraging. Thanks.

Hi Optimistic 1 it must be even harder when your on your own, I have spoken to the radiotherapy department today and they have reassured me I’m still in the safe time scale, it looks like I’ve still got quite a wait, I am going to see a private oncologist next week for a second opinion and take it from there, it’s hard staying positive when you haven’t had all the treatment but we must try.  The radiograph did emphasise that the wait time although not ideal is perfectly safe and that the medication would also help to prevent the cancer returning, we have to have faith, take care xx