Mum diagnosed with lymphoma - waiting for more information

Hi everyone

My mum (58) has recently been diagnosed with lymphoma, however we have been given no other information.

It started with a breast cancer screening (mum had zero symptoms, it was just a generic 3 yearly check) and was then called back for more screening a week later. She then had four biopsies and scans, and 11 days later (on the 12th Feb) was called by the doctor and told that she had lymphoma. The doctor was unable to give any further info, couldn't answer any questions, and told mum to sit tight and wait for a call from a specialist.

This was 10 days ago and we have heard nothing, no post, no calls :sad:   We are all out of our minds with worry.

Mum managed to get hold of the surgery receptionist today, and they said she has a telephone appointment booked in for the 4th March (we had no idea prior to this). Is this normal? 

For the doctor to tell someone they've got cancer over the phone, then being unable to answer any questions, and then having to wait 3 weeks for a telephone appointment... we are just so worried that mum is being forgotten about :cry:

They do a brilliant job of course, but is the three week wait (and then probably weeks longer for further scans) something to worry about? Does anyone have any advise on similar stories, or perhaps was seen more urgently with lymphoma?

Thank you in advance xx 

  • Hello GemmaGrace,

    I'm sorry to hear about your mum's diagnosis, but I'm glad to hear there is an appointment in place. As you know, there's a high demand on health services due to the pandemic so delays can happen. I can understand that this has left you with questions. It might be a good idea to write any questions you and your mum have ahead of the appointment. You can read about lymphoma here and we have a team of nurses available to speak to on the freephone 0808 800 4040. Lines are open Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.

    I hope this helps,

    Moderator Anastasia