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Undergoing investigation

Peanut246
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Hi,

I am new to the forum. I am 51 with a 12yo son, a lovely partner and also a beautiful labrador that won't leave my side as he knows Mum is poorly.

I have had blood tests/ ultrasound  for suspected ovarian cancer. I see a specialist next week for diagnosis. My symptoms are many but the worst is currently fluid retention in my abdomen. I'm booked in to have it drained in a few days, this cannot come soon enough. I have been referred for a CT scan too as the ultrasound wasn't clear due to the fluid build up. The scan did show a mass that needs addressing.

My head is spiralling and the unknown future is terrifying. I'm reaching out to see if anybody has any wise words for this limbo time I find myself in?

I feel like I have a huge ticking bomb inside me.

thanks

  • Hello Peanut246

    I'm sorry to hear about all that you've been going through recently. Hopefully, having the fluid drained will bring you some physical comfort whilst you wait for the CT scan and the next steps regarding a treatment plan. 

    It's understandable that you're feeling overwhelmed by things and that you're concerned about what will happen. I know that for many people this period of waiting for additional tests and results can be difficult and it's natural to have lots of questions, concerns and even fears. It can often help to talk with someone about those things and how you're feeling. It might be useful to chat things through with one of our nurses, who I know will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. If you'd like to chat with them, they're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. You might also like to have a look at this thread about waiting for news, which has some tips and advice that might help you cope. 

    Keep in touch Peanut246 and let us know how you're getting on. We're here for you. 

    Sending my best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Thank you for your response and advice. It feels like such a lonely and long time waiting to find out exactly what is going on. 

    The ascites are so uncomfortable, I cannot sit up now, my tummy looks like a full term pregnancy and its happened so quickly over the last week or so.

    I'm off to see my GP today so hope I get some support there. Since this started I have not seen my GP. I was originally examined by an out of hours iGP in a different practice, I have had phone calls with my GP and been seen at hospital. I have felt unseen by my GP... but a call to 111 when I reached breaking point in the early hours of today has meant they have finally given me a face- to- face appointment  I know the NHS is under pressure but why do I feel like an inconvenience to them?

    Thanks for being there.

  • in reply to Peanut246

    Ah, Peanut246, I'm sorry to hear that it's been so difficult and that you've not had the support you need from your GP. It's good to know that you reached out for help and the out-of-hours service has been able to secure an appointment for you with the surgery today. 

    Is there someone who can go with you to the appointment for some moral support? You are not an inconvenience and you shouldn't be left feeling this way so I hope that after seeing your GP today you're given more support whilst you're navigating these investigations. 

    Let us know how you get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

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