Waiting Times

My husband was referred by his GP on the cancer pathway back in late June. Everything has happened in 2-3 week time frames i.e. seeing a consultant - tests - more tests etc. It took 9 weeks to diagnose the cancer, this was 7 weeks ago. As he was originally under ENT, he was then moved over to respiratory. 4 weeks ago, as the result of a PET scan, we found out that he has secondary bone cancer, but still no definite answer for the primary site. More tests. Last week, we found out, from a meeting with a respiratory nurse, that it has been agreed the main site is now esophageal, so a referral is being made to the gastric oncologist. At the meeting with the respiratory nurse, I mentioned the 31 and 62 day government standards, we were (then) on day 105. No information on anything in-between the few meetings at the hospital to date.

I have no idea when the meeting with the oncologist will be - 2/3/4 weeks? We do know that the cancer is incurable and any treatment will be life prolonging. I can't begin to state how many times I've asked myself the question 'how long can the delay be for life prolonging treatment'? 

Has anyone else experienced this? 

  • A very warm welcome to the forum Mess although I'm sorry to hear how long it's taken for your husband to get his diagnosis.

    I can't begin to imagine how difficult and stressful the last 2 months have been but our members are here for you Mess, and I'm sure it won't be long until those who have been in a similar situation will stop by to share their experiences and advice.

    If you or your husband would like to talk any of this through with one of our cancer nurses, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very insightful and will do all they can to address your queries and concerns.

    We're thinking of you Mess and will have our fingers crossed the appointment with the oncologist will come through soon.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator