Hi, I know it's almost impossible not to be thinking the worst but try to keep yourself distracted so as not to think about it before you see your doctor and find out the diagnosis. Focus on your baby and the things that make you happy. Knowing that your mum's sister died of lymphoma must make things harder but those were different times and thankfully there are now so many more treatments. It's scary and corona time isn't helping but try to keep positive as much as you can. Sending love, good thoughts and prayers.

I'm trying my best but it's so hard! I feel awful, hopefully I won't have to wait too long for my appointment to come through. Thank you so much! 

No worries, I'm more than happy to have a chat. I'm sure you're trying your best and that's amazing. The rest is unfortunately not under your control. I'm still 22 but I think having a baby must be one of the best things in life so enjoy your time with him/her! And in terms of your appointment, it will definitely be in less than 2 weeks, fingers crossed even earlier! 

Thank you :) I don't really have anyone to speak to it about, it's not something you can really blab out without worrying everyone. It's the most amazing feeling in the world! I'm blessed to have 3 beautiful children. Do you know what I should expect when I have my appointment?

No problem at all, I think you can add me as a friend in your account profile and send me a message in a private chat if you prefer! And omg you have 3, that's amazing. I have 3 siblings so love a big family! I'm not a doctor and still in my 3rd year of medical school but I think in your appointment the doctor will probably discuss with you the results of whichever tests and exams you've already had done. Then if it's in person do a clinical examination like having a feel of the lumps you said you have and if over the phone probably ask you more about them. And then they might order a biopsy (when they get a piece of the lump to look at it under the microscope) if they think they need to investigate further. 

Found this on the Cancer Research UK Website which you might find useful:

Going to your hospital appointment

Your appointment letter will include: the time, where to go, who you’re seeing and anything you need to do to prepare.

You may be sent straight for tests, or you might see a specialist first. You may need to describe your symptoms again. It could help to write things down in advance. 

Going to hospital might feel different at the moment. Find out about going into hospital during the coronavirus.pandemic.

Handy Hints

Make sure you know where you’re going. Allow extra time in case it takes longer than you expect.

Take the appointment letter with you, it includes important information such as your hospital number and NHS number.

Think about arranging things like transport and childcare for the day of your appointment.

Book time off work as soon as possible – check with your employer if you need to take it as leave, the Citizens Advice website has more information about your rights.

Check if you can take a family member or friend with you for support.

Bring a pen and paper to write things down. It can be useful to look back at later. 

After some tests you may not be able to drive yourself home, your letter will tell you if you can’t drive.

Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged. 

What questions can I ask the specialist?

Sometimes it’s difficult to know what to ask your specialist. Here are a few ideas that might make it easier:

If my symptoms get worse, who should I contact?

Should I make any changes to the medicines I’m taking?

What tests will I need to have?

How long will the tests take?

What will the tests feel like?

Do the tests have any side effects?

How long will it take to get my test results?

What am I being tested for and what are you looking for?

How reliable are the tests?

Who will give me the test results?

If I have questions after the appointment, who should I ask?

Found this on the Cancer Research UK Website which you might find useful:

Going to your hospital appointment

Your appointment letter will include: the time, where to go, who you’re seeing and anything you need to do to prepare.

You may be sent straight for tests, or you might see a specialist first. You may need to describe your symptoms again. It could help to write things down in advance. 

Going to hospital might feel different at the moment. Find out about going into hospital during the coronavirus.pandemic.

Handy Hints

Make sure you know where you’re going. Allow extra time in case it takes longer than you expect.

Take the appointment letter with you, it includes important information such as your hospital number and NHS number.

Think about arranging things like transport and childcare for the day of your appointment.

Book time off work as soon as possible – check with your employer if you need to take it as leave, the Citizens Advice website has more information about your rights.

Check if you can take a family member or friend with you for support.

Bring a pen and paper to write things down. It can be useful to look back at later. 

After some tests you may not be able to drive yourself home, your letter will tell you if you can’t drive.

Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged. 

What questions can I ask the specialist?

Sometimes it’s difficult to know what to ask your specialist. Here are a few ideas that might make it easier:

If my symptoms get worse, who should I contact?

Should I make any changes to the medicines I’m taking?

What tests will I need to have?

How long will the tests take?

What will the tests feel like?

Do the tests have any side effects?

How long will it take to get my test results?

What am I being tested for and what are you looking for?

How reliable are the tests?

Who will give me the test results?

If I have questions after the appointment, who should I ask?

Thank you :) hopefully i won't have to wait too long for the appointment. Had a bad night last night with the sweats and feeling really weak today

Found this on the cancer research website which might help. Because getting a good night sleep will definitely improve how you feel. 

Things you can do to reduce sweating:

- avoid alcohol and caffeine as this dilates the blood vessels in the skin, increasing sweating

- avoid spicy foods and eating large meals late at night

- keep your room at a cool, comfortable temperature

- have a fan nearby at night

- use light bedclothes so you can take some off if you get hot

- if you are sweating a lot at night, lie on a soft towel to soak up moisture and keep your sheets dry

- drink at least 2.5 to 3 litres (preferably water) a day as you can lose a lot of fluid in sweat

- have plenty of warm baths or showers

Thank you :)

ive had my appointment through already, I'm being seen on Monday by the haematologist. Having bloods done on Friday again ready for them to see me Monday afternoon. Really worried not going to lie. More lumps have appeared in my groin and another one in my neck. Lost 2lbs since last Friday also :( 

Very happy to hear that you're being seen early on next week! Can completely understand your worry though with the new lumps appearing and your weight going down... try to keep drinking lots of water and eat filling meals. Hopefully on Monday they'll make a plan with you and talk through ways to improve your symptoms. 

Try to get a good night's sleep for tomorrow. I hope you can take someone with you. Sending good thoughts your way and hoping for the best.

Thank you :) will keep you updated