Hi GolfAnn,

A very warm welcome to the forum.

I am so sorry to hear of the family history to breast cancer. It must have been very hard to lose so many family members to this disease. I do have some idea of how worried you are feeling, because I was in a similar position 16 years ago. A lot of people expect to be seen within 2 weeks, but this seldom happens. You will usually get your appointment within 2 weeks, but the actual appointment may well be in advance of this. This waiting period is always an anxious time. Try to avoid turning to google, as much of the information is poorly researched, out of date and aimed at the more spectacular cases, which won't give you any answers and will only serve to scare you further.

You do not say what age you are, but if you need a biopsy, it can take a further 2-3 weeks to get your results. Make sure to mention to the consultant at your first appointment, that you have a holiday booked and follow any advice given. Chances are that you will still be able to go away. If you want to get a cancellation, the best way to do this is to phone your consultant's secretary and ask to be put on the cancellation list, as there is always a chance that one will come up.

With regard to the pain you are feeling, it is unusual to have pain associated with breast cancer, but sadly, not impossible. I sincerely hope that you manage to get an earlier appointment and that nothing untoward is found. It is a fact that not all lumps are cancerous and only 20% of those who visit the breast clinic will get a cancer diagnosis. Please keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We are always here for you.

Kind regards,

Jolamine xx