Questions to ask at initial consultation

Hi, Sorry to hear about your mum, it’s difficult to be given the news

This is what I wanted to know when I went for my first appointment, (others might have different thoughts that they might share.

what size the tumour was 

what type of cancer cell it was, there are different types 

what kind of treatment plan was being considered 

If they were looking at curative treatment 

When treatment would start 

what stage is the cancer 

I’m happy to share my journey with others, please ask any questions and if I can answer I will do. I would suggest that if you look things up that you stick to Mackmillan, Cancer Research or NHS sites as some others can be frightening and not necessarily helpful.

Sorry to hear your news and sorry if my reply is late.  

I was diagnosed with stomach cancer in Feb this year.  Since then I have had various scans ( inc a PET scan)  and keyhole surgery to determine the extent of the situation.  The 'good news' was the cancer had not spread so a treatment plan was agreed.  This is 4 cycles of chemo, a major stomach removal op then more chemo.  This should ensure the cancer has gone.  I am now on my 2nd chemo cycle.  

If not already known I would suggest the main info required is at what stage is the cancer and has it spread?  This will then determine the treatment plan. 

Has it been suggested for a picc line to be fitted?  I have one fitted but there has been an issue with nurses taking blood from it.  I have bad veins so the picc line would be great for this.  Unfortunately the phlebotomists at my hospital are not trained to use picc lines!  Only the chemo staff can take blood from picc lines but they are too busy, under-resourced  and with a lack of space they refer you to the blood team so its use of needles to take blood.  A frustrating scenario so I would check this out with your chemo team.

Don't be afraid to ask questions, none are stupid and ensure any issues with  chemo side effects are urgently reported.   During my first chemo cycle I twice visited the chemo unit to talk about the side effects and was given additional medication which all help to relieve the issus.

Always take any medication given  even if  feeing well.  By the time your Mum feels unwell it is often too late! 

Hope all goes well.

David