Hello Norbury bear and thanks for your post,

I can understand what an unsettling time this must be for you both but hopefully when your mum knows what to expect it will help her to feel less anxious.

At the appointment the doctors will review all the different tests and then work out how best to treat her cancer. They will take in to account the stage and grade of the cancer and also your mum's general health and how she would cope with any treatment. 

Each case is treated very individually. There are many different tests that are now done on breast tissue so the doctors can work out and tailor treatment depending on the type of cancer. We have some information on our website about how treatment decisions are made

Your mum should also be given a breast care nurse. The breast care nurse is often around at the clinics and will help to also explain anything that you and your mum does not understand. Don't be afraid to ask the doctor questions. If you don't understand what they are saying then ask them to explain it again so the information is made clearer.

There is so much information to take on board and it will take a while to process all of this. You may also be given written information to take away which will help you both understand more.

The doctors will also take in to account what your mum wants. It is important that she feels listened to and hopefully she will feel more in control as to what is happening next.

Once you have had the appointment if either you or your mum or both of you want to ring and talk it all through with one of the nurses here then you are more then welcome to do so. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

All the best,

Catherine

Hi Catherine

thank you for your response. We have been today and my mum is due to have a lumpectomy in two weeks.

we are feeling much better now we have a plan!