Hello Emilyroseted, 

I can completely understand why reading your doctor's notes has made you panic slightly especially as you were told it was likely to be something other than cancer so it has probably left you feeling rather confused. However, it's important to bear in mind that a majority of ladies who are referred to be screened do not have cancer but it's important to have a proper look and go through these tests. If there is one thing you can do to help you feel less anxious is resist the urge to look things up online as whatever you search for, it always tends to link symptoms to cancer creating unnecessary worry as Google is not a doctor and far from being reliable. I know it's easier said than done but try, as you are waiting, to just keep busy and distracted doing things you enjoy and don't anticipate the worst as there could be so many other explanations for your pain and it's only a matter of time now before you get some clarity on all this. I thought I would share with you these helpful tips to help you cope while waiting for important news. 

Wishing you the best of luck for your appointment next week - try and get some rest if you can as sleep deprivation won't help your anxiety and I hope that you can manage to sleep better soon. There is information on our website on being referred to the breast clinic which I hope you will find useful. 

Everything crossed for you - I hope it all turns out to be nothing of concern. Keep us updated if you can on how it goes and what you find out. 

Best wishes, 

Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator