Hi Klhew, I didn't want to read and run, I don't have much advice as I'm currently awaiting my first 2ww appointment for neck lumps/raised nodes. So I do know this anxiety you are experiencing. I'm not a single parent though I have a 2 year old son that I'm already imagining leaving without a mum. Our brains do tend to think the worst and run away with us!

I am trying to rationalise that 9 out of 10 2ww referrals turn out not to be cancer, and that there are other causes for the symptoms. 

Hi. This  applies to both if you. The quickest way tj be seen for your own peace of mind is the 2 week refferal pathway. I am one if the unlucky 5 % who via the pathway was diagnosed with head and neck cancer right tonsil snd 7 lymph nodes. If by chance you're unlucky enough to join me remember the success rate for  head and neck cancers are in excess of 90 %. You are both young which  us in your favour . I was 61 when diagnosed so I do kniw where your  heads are. Please please keep off dr google you'll scare yourself stupid. Keep busy and trust in yiyr ent team they are he experts. I have  a blog detailing my experience if you're unlucky enough to join me. As an example my ent department fir normal  consults has a 37 week waiting list . Hence the 2 week refferal. 
hope  this allays your fears. Www.Radioactiveraz.Wordpress.com

Pop on and let us know huw you both get in in meantime kerp normality for you kids. 
Hazel x

Hello,

I am going to my first ENT consultation on Friday, I have a lump on the left side of my neck aswell as over a year of a change in bowel habbits and fatigue. I have a 2 yr old and 3 yr old and can't stop thinking about how I'm going to leave them and how awful it will be for them. I am so sad and can't stop crying. The anxiety is terrible and although, I have no help at the moment, I guess I just wanted to let you know that I am in a similar boat and am here for you if you need to talk.