Terrified about results and I don't know what to do

Hi,

I'm sorry to hear you're going through this!

I went through a similar situation 5 years ago. They need to discuss the results of his biopsy with you either way. Having an appointment booked isn't something to be concerned about specifically, especially if you don't attend you'd be discharged to the GP - GPs don't really manage cancer patients.

Even if the results do show melanoma, that isn't necessarily a death sentence. They might need to do a bit wider surgery around the area, and that would still leave your husband with chances in the 90%s or higher that he wouldn't have trouble from it ever again. And if it has been too long and there is spread - there are cutting edge treatments that have significantly improved outcomes with few and minimal side effects. Unfortunately, we can't predict the future, but do try to distract yourselves and stay positive. No news yet! You got this!

Sending hugs!

Thank you for your reply because I am going mental. 

The letter definately says if you don't attend you will be referred back to the GP, we can go or rearrange. But then I thought maybe they all say that! 

Also it doesn't say anything about discussing results just saying a follow up but I guess that is implied

I was hoping for a phone call out of the blue not waiting for an appointment! It is mentally horrific. 

I'd say the referral back to GP is promising actually!

As someone who's had 8 or so biopsies already I really don't think that having an actual appointment vs phone call means much in the way of results. In fact, I've even had follow up in person appointments without even the results being out yet! And they turned out to be just fine a couple of weeks later :) I've also had I believe almost all my bad news results over the phone, including for a stage IV diagnosis. Really, I wouldn't worry about whether there is an appointment or just a phone call - I really don't think it means something (just sometimes how they "do things"). Also an appointment 6 weeks after the biopsy is actually very standard non-concern timeline and not the 2-week pathway in my experience. You got this!

Stay strong, stay distracted and try to tell yourself a positive version of what is worrying you to try and keep calm! I'll be keeping my fingers crossed for you both!

Hi,

I have just updated my profile to include my journey. I have done so as I was in the same boat as you just under four years ago, the worry (of my own condition - malignant melanoma) made me ill. I feel a lot different now, even though I am going through more surgery in 9 days time. I still worry, I have a wife and young family, but the treatment and support is excellent.

It’s easy to say “try not to worry”, but there are a lot of people on this forum that understand what you are both going through, I hope that in itself helps slightly. Fingers crossed for you that all will be well.

Best wishes.

Garf

Thank you for your reply because I am going mental at the moment with the waiting it almost feels like an odd dream like state I've been living in since Feb. Can't see forward can't see anything but misery.

I just know it's bad news I can feel it in the pit of my stomach. I don't know how we are going to cope with this I am on sleeping pills, 2 types of anxiety medication already due to this situation.

The appointment will be to discuss the biopsy results and any further treatment, if necessary. The six weeks between biopsy/initial mole removal is pretty standard across health boards.

Personally, I’ve found the waiting to be the worst part. I just want to know what’s going on and get it sorted. I also think it’s ‘easier’ for the patient to deal with outcomes than their loved ones. This is certainly true in my case. It sounds as though you would benefit from talking to someone, such as one of the Macmillan team.

Sending you a big virtual hug x

Hello everyone just an update.

We had the appointment today after two weeks of mental torture and the results were a very dysplastic mole, but not a pre cancer yet so we were given the all clear! She did say she had discussed it further with a specialist but they agreed it was ok. She had another look at all his moles and sent him on his way. She did say had we have left it longer it may have turned into cancer! 

So when they call you back it can be ok. Also this was a nasty mole odd colours above 6mm uneven and changing! So even with all those factors it can be ok. 

Thanks for all your help! 

That's great news Lilcate and I hope you're having a little celebration  

That’s great news. It also highlights the importance of being extra vigilant with your skin. 

Time for a celebration!

Yay, happy to hear the great news! Thanks for giving some reassurance for everyone else possibly in a similar situation reading this now or in the future, I’m sure it’ll make a difference!