How to cope with waiting?

Hi,

I was referred for a 2 week appointment on December 4th and still haven't heard anything from the hospital about an appointment. I checked the waiting lists online and it says that in my area red-flag (2ww) referrals for the breast clinic are at a 3 week wait. Does anyone know if that is until you receive a letter or until the appointment? I was really hoping to be seen before Christmas as the anxiety from waiting is horrible. Our GP is a nightmare to get through to - it took 289 redials to get through last time! I don't want to bother them when they are so busy and don't know if there's anyone I can reach out to to see how long I might have to wait? Even if I got through to them I don't know if they could do anything since the referral has already been made?

My anxiety is through the roof so I guess I'm just looking for ways to cope with it too.

Thank you x

  • I’m sorry you have that wait. I’ve been red flagged too and I contacted the hospital I’ve been referred to, my waiting list is 8 weeks plus, but, I spoke to them and said I can go at a moments notice and if they get a cancellation can I be considered. The receptionist was lovely and said they do get quite a few cancellations that they try to fill asap.  Maybe you could contact them and ask if a cancellation comes up can you be considered. 
    it’s such a worrying time. I’m not usually a worrier and didn’t think I would be as anxious as I am.

    i hope this suggestion helps

  • Thank you so much for replying Mamahen. I think I will try and call the hospital in the morning. I've been reluctant to as I hate making a fuss about anything, but the sleepless nights and anxious days are starting to get a bit much. I'm not normally too bad a worrier myself, and maybe I'm just not used to feeling like this! I'm glad they were helpful to you. I just thought I would have to have a letter from them before I called, but I guess it won't do any harm to call them and see!

    Thanks again and I hope you get an appointment soon - 8+ weeks is a long time to wait so hopefully there is a cancellation for you xx

  • I’m in the same position as you. Found the lump and referral made but I’m overthinking things, I think, added to the lump I’ve got the cough I’ve had for over 12 months, but I just put it down to being an ex smoker. I have noticed how fatigued I have been over the last couple of months and all these things together are making me really anxious. I just want answers, I don’t like not being in control.

    red flags here are supposed to have appointment within 2 weeks with treatment (if required) to be commenced within 60 days.

    the waiting lists here are terrible and it’s 8 weeks minimum for first appointment. It’s totally freaking me out

  • Hi Gnomes,

    A very warm welcome to our forum.

    Unfortunately, the 2 week wait only refers to when you should get the appointment through and not the actual appointment date. This is always an anxious time and our over-active imaginations can take us to all sorts of dark places, during this time. Fortunately, not all lumps are cancerous. Many turn out to be benign cysts, fibroadenoma or due to hormonal changes. It is a fact that only 20% of people who attend the breast clinic, will get a cancer diagnosis, so the odds are still in your favour. 

    Try to keep yourself busy, whether with work or pastimes, which shouldn't be difficult at this time of year. I sincerely hope that nothing is found. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

  • Hi Mamahen,

    A very warm welcome to our forum.

    Unfortunately, the 2 week wait only refers to when you should get the appointment through and not the actual appointment date. This is always an anxious time and our over-active imaginations can take us to all sorts of dark places, during this time. Fortunately, not all lumps are cancerous. Many turn out to be benign cysts, fibroadenoma, or due to hormonal changes. It is a fact that only 20% of people who attend the breast clinic, will get a cancer diagnosis, so the odds are still in your favour. 

    Try to keep yourself busy, whether with work or pastimes, which shouldn't be difficult at this time of year. I sincerely hope that nothing is found. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine x