Thank you for your reply John. I actually went for a blood test myself on Wednesday and spoke to them about it and they said that if his own practice nurse can't get blood this morning, then he needto go up there as a walk in. They took his name and DOB from me so they know who he us. I thought that was really nice of them to offer to do that. My hubby is going to tell them not to cancel his rerral. I really don't understand why they would do that when his GP thinks it's necessary to refer his via the 2 week pathway in the first place. I wish he wasn't going through any of this at all bu it's got to be done. He already struggles with his mental health and attempted suicide a month ago. Now this.

Hello LunarLou

I'm glad to hear that your own GP surgery has been supportive. Whilst being well hydrated can help with being able to take blood, sometimes it really can be down to the skill of the individual health care professional so I hope that he is able to get those bloods taken successfully today. 

As I said, if there is an issue please do speak to the GP or even the practice manager to ask about the referral being cancelled. 

I'm sorry to hear that your husband struggles with his mental health. Don't forget that the Samaritans are available 24/7 to support you both if needed. If you have concerns that his mental health is deteriorating again then do get in touch with the GP for advice and support. 

It sounds like there are some difficult times ahead whilst you wait for this appointment but hopefully he won't have to wait too long to see the specialist and they will be able to give you both some reassurance. 

Keep in touch and let us know how you get on. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator 

Hi. Just a quick update. Hubby was able to have bloods taken earlier today. Just have to wait now. We are dreading the call from the hospital to book his appointment. I wish that none of this was happening. He has never had anything like this before and the thought of it possibly being cancer is just soul destroying. Never been so scared.

Hello LunarLou

Thanks for updating us. I'm really glad to hear that your husband was able to successfully have his blood taken today. 

Whilst it's understandable that you're both anxious about his symptoms, try to remember that there could be reasons other than cancer that have caused this bleed. Worrying won't change the outcome of his tests but it will leave you both feeling stressed and unwell so try to take each day as it comes and not worry too much about the "what ifs". 

If either of you would like to talk through your concerns with one of our nurses you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice and support they can. 

I do hope that your husband has an appointment date soon and that the team can give him some reassurance. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator