My first post on here, hopefully I can use this to share and try to calm my nerves a bit!
I’m currently on the waiting list for a breast clinic appointment. My GP submitted a referral 11 days ago and I didn’t hear anything so rang the clinic to see if they could help.
The referral took 2 days to reach them and when it did they said they had no appointments. So now they think a 3 week wait to be seen.
How on earth to I keep my mind at ease for 3 weeks? I can’t sleep, work, even concentrate on anything! The pain I am getting from the lump is constant so it’s pretty hard to forget about it.
I’m really sorry you find yourself in this position - the NHS is committed to a 2-week turnaround and, even allowing for the pandemic, this 5 week wait isn’t good enough. Unfortunately, should you be unlucky enough to be positive for breast cancer, waiting is something you will get very experienced at. Whether it’s easy or not is, in a way, up to you.
First, I would advise you to ring the breast care nurse at the number above. I’ve always found them so reassuring.
Second, I’m pointing out two facts: about 90% of lumps referred to breast clinics turn out to be benign AND pain isn’t something usually associated with breast cancer symptoms. My first two experiences with breast clinics were associated with a large painful lump (called a fibroadenoma, which is usually removed just in case) in my 30s and two cysts, in my 40s, which went away of their own accord. Perhaps the symptoms your GP has identified aren’t ringing the alarm bells, though all lumps are referred nowadays.
There’s not much you can do about the wait but a lot you can do to take care of yourself and your emotions. meditation, mindfulness, running, baking… whatever rocks your boat. I found great comfort in Progressive Hypnosis’s Manifest Healing, a video on YouTube which saw me through all my treatments and still helps me.
I hope you find some peace of mind quickly and get that appointment. Meantime, make sure you aren’t prodding and poking it - if it was there an hour ago, it’s still there but happier left alone.
Hi Jade93 - I also wanted to drop in and give you a big hug. The waiting is so hard isn’t it. But Jan (Jaybro) has given you some really wise advice, and I’m not sure what I can add - except to say that we are here for you anytime you want or need to chat or offload. This is a safe and non judgmental place to share any feelings, and everyone just “gets it” without any need to explain. Evie xx