My partner has a 9cm mediastinal mass and a tumour in his left lung.

My partner who is only 45 years old has been in and out of A&E with severe chest pain.  On the last A&E admission, it was discovered that he has a large 9cm mediastinal mass and a tumour in his left lung.  He has recently undergone all the necessary tests, CT Scan, PET scan, EBUS, lung function test. I am absolutely terrified it is advanced stage cancer.  He is over 6ft and now only weighs 65kg. In chronic pain, no appetite and struggling to get him the support to manage his pain while he waits for his diagnosis. Can anyone please suggest what I can do to expedite this. I am literally watching him waste away and it is heartbreaking

  • Hello sophlaily

    I'm sorry to hear that your partner has been unwell and that the most recent A&E admission resulted in the discovery of a mass in his left lung. It's undoubtedly a difficult time for you both. 

    I presume that you have liaised with his GP regarding pain management? If not then I'd certainly get in touch with them to ask for an urgent appointment regarding his pain and lack of appetite. 

    Has your partner been allocated a clinical nurse specialist or someone who will act as a point of contact at the hospital? If so then give them a call. If you've already done this and you're struggling to speak with someone or get any useful support then please contact the hospital PALS department. It's part of their role to help resolve concerns or problems when you're using the NHS. 

    If you've already spoken with the GP and the hospital team and you don't feel that you're getting anywhere then please go back to them again. Sometimes we have to be really proactive in advocating for our loved ones' needs to be met. 

    If it would help to talk things through with one of our nurses for some advice and support you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. 

    I do hope that you can access the support he needs soon to improve his pain management and that the hospital team can give you both some answers soon. 

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

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator