I have had an exhausting last 6 weeks from attending a follow up from my first ever mammogram. I find out the latest biopsy result today which they were confident was cancer. This now means a double mastectomy not a single as found in 2nd breast through MRI. On Wednesday 10th June I go in for my operation. I am scared and the nurses at my hospital have not been very helpful. They have given me wrong information regarding my treatment which has caused more stress and anxiety. I seem to be having to chase the team as they keep forgetting to do things or miss communicate. I am worried the hospital is incompetent and that I should not go ahead with the operation. I don’t know what to do as my op is only a few days away. Should I be asking to be referred to another hospital? thanks Pam x
It sounds a very stressful situation to be in.
You could perhaps about calling the helpline here on 0808 800 6000 (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm; Sat 9am-1pm). You can speak to the trained helpline team and talk through the situation. Let them know you have posted a query on here
Hello Pam,
Thanks for your question. It sounds as if you’re having a difficult time at the moment and it’s understandable that you’re scared and anxious. You may find it helpful to speak to one of our nurses by calling our helpline. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary.
Hopefully you’ll get some clarification when you attend the clinic today for your biopsy results and that you’re also able to ask questions about your impending surgery.
It’s unusual to be given a treatment plan and operation date when your results have not been finalised and a plan made at the Multidisciplinary Team Meeting (MDT).
If you feel that you’re still concerned following the consultation, you could discuss delaying the date for surgery until you’ve had time to discuss this further.
You ask if you should be referred to another hospital. The Patient’s Association provides more information about the benefits and drawbacks of a second opinion.
You can also speak to the Patient Advice Liaison Service (PALS) for further support. You can also speak with this service if you would like their help with your concerns about your treatment plan where you are currently being treated. Your GP could also discuss if a second opinion would be helpful.
This would involve seeing another treatment team who will give their opinion on your diagnosis or treatment plan.
They can refer you to an NHS team or a particular doctor. There are no guidelines about waiting times for a second opinion, which may lead to some delays.
As we said, do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks.
Our number is 0808 800 6000. If you have hearing or speech difficulties dial 18001 followed by our number and the call will go through Relay UK. Our helpline has access to telephone interpreters if language translation is required.
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We are closed on English bank holidays.
Out of hours you can leave a message and we will call you back when we next open.
Best wishes,
Addie
Breast Care Nurse
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