Hi Julie,

So sorry you've needed a referral and even more sorry that there seems to be such a wait.

Now before I say the following please note that I'm not assuming you have cancer, your situation will hopefully be one of the many benign conditions of the breast.  But should it be the worst case scenario then if it helps any, in terms of putting your mind at rest about how 'fast' people say cancer can grow, even after diagnosis it often takes up to 2 months to start treatment.  Because although cancer grows 'fast' relative to some of our cells, it isn't fast in the sense that we tend to think.  So while the delay is going to be really awful for your general wellbeing, and you'll read on here often that the wait is by far one of the worst bits of the cancer journey, chances are it will be insignificant in terms of your prognosis (IF it is cancer).

I'm sorry, I'm a bit chemo-brained just now so probably not explaining myself well.  Do chase it up, but we are all here if you need to rant, moan, cry, laugh, whatever takes your fancy.  We've all been in the waiting game you're currently in.

Fingers crossed they get a move on with things, get you an appointment soon and it all puts your mind at rest.

LJx

Hi Julie!

I’m in the same boat as you right now. I’ve been referred to the breast clinic by my doctor and I too have been told it’s a two week wait. Like you I’m frantic worried. 

I did ring the breast clinic in the end today and they confirmed they have my referral but have not yet made my appointment. The nurse was lovely,explained what would happen on the day. I was expecting a mammogram but I’m getting the “full works” haha. Mammogram,ultra sound,biopsy and aspiration. 

Im finding this forum very informative and there’s lovely people on here. I think this will get us through the next few weeks-knowing there’s others in the same boat as us and we’re not alone. 

Please keep us updated xxxx

I’m so sorry you have this anxious wait.

Nothing extra to add to the other girls.  I’m playing the waiting game too. Waiting for surgery to find out how many lymph nodes affected.  Had ultrasound, biopsy and aspiration. Just relax biopsy and aspiration wasn’t bad.  Waiting is so hard and you will be on an emotional rollercoaster.  It’s the waiting that is the worst.  

Take care xx

Hi petrgn

thank you for your reply. How are you getting along?

It doesn’t help that I have a fear of needles and tend to pass out when one comes near me!

You’re right,the waiting is driving my balmy! I’m fine one minute then crying the next! Doesn’t help that I’m on annual leave from work and I’m just pottering about the house while my daughter is in school. I have been feeling like I have no one to talk to and feel a little selfish jumping on here with my worries but it’s been my saving grace,especially today. 

Xxx

Hi Julie, I totally sympathise. I found a large lump in my breast in mid Feb, was referred by my GP on a supposedly 2 week urgent basis on 21 Feb, only to be told that in my area there is a waiting list of 9 weeks for all urgent referrals! 9 weeks!!! I have an NHS appointment for 24 April. I'm out of my mind with worry, and just can't wait that long, so I've scraped together enough money to have a mammogram, ultrasound and biopsy privately, and I'm getting seen on Friday. But it's ridiculous that anyone has to wait more than two weeks. I'm in Scotland, where the 2 week referral period is a guidline only, and not mandatory, but I think in England the 2 week period is mandatory. 

28 March is just around the corner. Hold on and it'll be here before you know it . 

Sending positive vibes to you. Let us know how you get on xx

OP as a medical secretary I can confirm that in England it's mandatory that you are seen within 2 weeks of being referred by your GP. Take this up with your GP and remind them of  the guidelines. Perhaps you could be referred to another trust. Mamma, you've done the right thing and if anything is found, you can be referred straight onto the NHS who should see you immediately. Thinking of you both.