Gastro first appointment not cancer team

Hi first time on here like many people. We're waiting on test results for my husband, there 95% sure it's bowel cancer. Hes had cameras both ends and a ct scan.The odd thing is we haven't had it confirmed, sill waiting, but the first appointment is with the gastro team and not the cancer team, by letter. Is this normal? Any advice would be much appreciated.  Thank you in advance 

  • Hello BJB08 and a warm welcome to Cancer Chat! 

    Waiting for test results is never easy and being told they are 95% sure it's bowel cancer still leaves you with a small degree of uncertainty because as you said, you haven't had anything confirmed and you will indeed not know anything for sure until you have received all the test results. I am not sure why the first appointment is with the gastro team rather than the cancer team and I can understand why it has left you wondering if it is standard procedure. I hope you get some clarity on this very soon and that you won't have to wait long for this first appointment. 

    If you wanted to talk things through with our cancer nurses, I am sure they will be happy to answer questions you might have on the bowel cancer diagnosis process or anything else you want to find out more about - you can call them on this free number 0808 800 4040 - their helpline is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. 

    I hope that you will hear from other members of our community who have had this first appointment before after undergoing similar tests and that they will be along soon to share their experience with you. This is a really difficult time for you and for your husband, when you may feel a little bit like everything is in limbo - we have these helpful tips to help you cope while waiting for important news which I hope you will find helpful while you are waiting for definite answers. The forum is also always here for you if you need to talk to others who are or have been in a similar place. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi Lucie, thank you so much for the reply, I really appreciate it. I've asked a few people at work who have been in this situation and it's seems to differ from hospital to hospital so I guess it just a waiting game. Which of course is never good for anyone. Thank you for the prompt to call the cancer team, I may do this as I'm off tomorrow.  I think my hubby is waiting for the results before he wants to talk to anyone. Thank you once again for the help and advice. Kind regards B.