Waiting game

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Can anyone tell me how long it took to see specialist after first diagnosis, I'm just worrying all the time at the moment Cry

  • Hey  it took about 4 weeks for me but this depends on the Covid situation and the hospitals waiting list capacity. I called in twice to check on things..  I totally understand the worry feeling but try your best to stay distracted. Hope you’re ok xx 

  • Thank you I'm not too bad I was awful when I was first told just thought that's it I'm going to die but I've calmed down now , just want to know what's going on x

  • Of course. That’s totally normal to feel that way. I was the same. Be kind to yourself. I’m sure you will hear back soon and things can get moving xx 

  • Thank you so much xx

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi ShazzE,

    i was diagnosed in November 2019, so pre-Covid. I cant remember the details but think my first clinic appointment for oncology was about 2 weeks after diagnosis. After my next clinic appointment I was admitted as an in-patient so they could drain the fluid from my abdomen and around my lungs, and that then led to a biopsy and starting chemo. Not quite the timescale which had been expected! 

  • Hi ShazzE, I was diagnosed early feb'20 and I think it was about 10 days before I saw the specialist and then started chemo very soon afterwards.  It is completely normal to feel so worried, although i'm sure knowing that doesn't help much!  I initially was convinced I was going to die within weeks/months and the waiting really is the worst part as your mind shoots off in all directions.  But the cancer care in this country really is excellent and you are in good hands.    You will feel better once you see the specialist and learn more about the treatment plan.  Please try to take someone with you (I know they're a bit funny about that right now), but a second pair of ears is invaluable, and you will hear much that you don't understand, and lots of questions that you wish you'd asked.     Good advice is not to google!  Wait till you can ask your doctor, or ask the nurses on this site.    There's so much out there but none of it can possibly relate to your situation or your journey so no point in scaring yourself more!  Good luck and remember there's lots of people here on this forum if you want to 'chat'.

    take care x

  • Thank you so much, I just want to know what's going on now, I'm so uncomfortable my stomach has swollen up, I look like I'm about 9 months pregnant. I walked to town today which is literally 10 minutes my husband had to pick me up in the car so much pain from pressure I think?? I really appreciate you taking time out to read and answer thank you both so much x

  • FormerMember
    FormerMember

    Hi Shazz - I'm waiting for surgery, was diagnosed in January in the middle of high covid numbers - pre-op due end of March.  The hospital 'bed' situation is getting better, more free high dependancy beds - thats good.  There seems to be a system of priority which makes sense for urgent surgery.

    I walk every day, go as far as I feel comfortable.  I get bloated in the evening so eat little and more regularly - eat good balanced food, its worth it.  Many trips to the loo during the night but I get used to that.  Am hoping my surgery will be in April.  I tried to get private treatment but it was going to be quicker by the NHS.  Stay with it, your consultant will be able to give you a full assessment I hope.  As time passes I feel more accepting of my situation, less panic, which was caused by all the worst case scenarios on google!  Hope you get results soon

    take care J

    1. Thank you, its hard not think the worst isn't it everyone says stay positive but every now and then I panic and think I'm going to die Pensive