Hi Nicky, 

Thank you for your reply. I guess telling someone admits there may be a problem, but yes I do feel I don't want to go alone. Sending you lots of good wishes for the future hugs also.

Jay Lou.xx

Hi Jay Lou,

Welcome to our forum. I am sorry to hear that you are waiting for your referral next week. This is always an anxious time.

Nicky is quite right only 1 person in every 8 who are referred to the breast clinic will have cancer.

Most people do not get any results at their first appointment. Although my surgeon told me that he was pretty sure that I had cancer, I still had to wait a week for the results of my tests to confirm this. There are some 'one stop clinics' where some people are told on the day, but these are the exception rather than the norm.

The usual procedure on the first consultation is for your consultant to ask you to explain your symptoms. Your breasts are then examined and, if it is deemed necessary, you will be sent for a mammogram and/or an ultrasound and, may have a biopsy taken. This is the normal procedure for most people. It usually takes 1-2 weeks for your consultant to call you back to give you a diagnosis.

I would fully agree with Nicky, it is always a good idea to take someone with you to the clinic, especially on the days when you are going to get the results of any tests. It is also helpful to write down a list of ay questions to take with you. You are doing well to keep this news to yourself. Most people do this and, then tell family and friends after diagnosis.

I have had 2 bouts of breast cancer and a number of false alarms in the past 10 years, so know only too well how worrying the wait can be. I am always here for you if you want to chat at any time.

Please let us know how you get on at the clinic.

I have my fingers crossed that you will be one of the lucky people!

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx

Hi Jolamine,

Wow thank you so much, that information is so helpful, I really didn't know what to expect, fortunately I haven't had anyone I know closely go through this before. I am waiting until after diagnosis to tell my family, we lost my dad a year ago so my family have had it quite tough and I don't want to worry them if it's all for nothing. But after what Nicky said I am going to talk to my partner and get him to come with me. I am so sorry to hear you have been poorly, I wish you well and will definitely let you know how it goes. I wasnt sure about joining a forum as I'm quite a private person but am so glad I have. Again thank you.xxx

HI Jaylou,

I am so sorry to hear about your dad and, can fully understand why you do not want to tell your family just now. However, I am glad to hear that you are going to get your partner to accompany you to the clinic.

Many people on here felt like you did about joining a forum. If you don’t want to reveal personal details to someone on a public forum, you can always use the private messaging facility.

I shall be keeping my fingers crossed for you.

Kind regards,
Jolamine xx