Hi Bem

That's a funny one... I finished chemoradiotherapy in Jan this year and got the letter, and I thought that was odd !  I mentioned it to my Oncologist and he was quite casual about it.  I know they're getting round to the second batch of letters and you must be on that.  Someone is going through the records and finding people who had anything that reduces immunity going way back by the sounds of it.  I've practically been self isolating since Nov 19, so this is no hardship for me, but if you have access to your GP records online you may find someone has written a note in your record.  That's what they did for me, about 5 weeks ago now, they were very thorough and I thought the NHS just picks up those notes, but I could be wrong.  Unless you're working, you can't really go anywhere anyway, so best to stay on the safe side and just limit going out too much.  I tried buying shopping online, but that was impossible, so I still have to go out shopping, so a bit pointless really.  Best Diane

Thanks for replying Diane the post was really helpful. Unfortunately I dont have online access to my GP records but will email them and hopefully they will respond if they have a chance.

I hope you are well after your chemo and take care especially when shopping ! B

Hi,

I had a full node clearance 11 years ago when diagnosed with Stage 3 melanoma & so I researched everywhere for information regarding the immune system & Covid-19. The only place that has any information is this melanoma research website but it applies to anyone in our position. Point 6 is the relevant information which says we are at no more risk of the virus than anyone else. melanomafocus.com/.../

I therefore don't think you have been placed on the High Risk list because of this surgery. If you have no other underlying health conditions & are not over 70 I think you should ask your GP. If it's a mistake, no damage has been done - if there is a reason for being on the list you really need to know why so you can take care of yourself appropriately. Please let us know what the GP says,

Angie

HI,

I'm led to believe, having spoken to quite a few people who have had chemo or immunotherapy recently, that they are contacting patients who have had the treatment in the last 2 years. After that the immune system has usually returned to normal. Best wishes,

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient)

Thank you so much for that information Angie, I found it really helpful and interesting!

I decided to email GP last evening to put my mind at rest if nothing else, as none of my "Breasties" ("girls" I was in hospital with) had received a text or letter. I got a phone call from the surgery this morning to say they knew nothing about text and it had probably been sent from a secondary trust. They were very honest and up front which I appreciated and said I wasnt on their initial vulnerable person register. They however felt I should follow advice as I  have a few minor conditions ( eg pernicious anaemia but its not that serious as the have cancelled my injection due today) 

I am really no further forward but dont feel as concerned as i did yesterday.  I will continue my outside exercise, as where I live I can do thast easily away from others,  but not sure what I will do re my weekly shop which luckily I did yesterday (before text).

Much apprecite the responses I've received as this is the first time I have used this site. Thanks folks !

Barb