A 2WW for a breast clinic.

I have lumps in my right breast and mentioned it to my GP. She did an exam and referred me for a 2WW at the breast clinic at my local hospital. Well, it turns out it's now almost a 3 months wait! So my GP then tried another hospital and the same result, at least  a three month wait.
I'm not worried or concerned as I don't believe I have cancer, but still, it's a long wait!

 

 

  • Hi Lilllytan,

    I'm sorry that you're in such a worrying and stressful situation. The waiting is unfortunately awful for everyone because we all just want immediate answers.

    Being in the midst of a pandemic has certainly affected those of us with health issues/ cancer. It's in the news daily how appointments and operations are being cancelled. Not only does it cause extra worry and stress but it makes covid patients appear more important than cancer patients. That in itself makes many people very angry.

    My own  supposedly 2 weekvwait was nearer 6 so I can't imagine the strain of having to wait 3 months. It must be very difficult and you'll feel as if your life is on hold.

    The only advice that I can offer is try not to dwell on it too much. Take it day by day and stay off the internet because it's not always correct information and you'll likely scare yourself silly. Use distraction techniques when you need to and ask for help/support if required. Members and staff on this forum are amazing so use their knowledge and experience when necessary. Macmillan also have dedicated staff to help you too. You can also phone the clinic once you've received your appointment and ask about cancellations, which sometimes happen and will shorten your wait.

    Stay strong and let us know how you do get on.

    Barb xx

     

  • Thank you for your kind and thoughtful response. I am really not at all worried as I don't believe it is cancer (I previously had a brain tumour which although life ending if not removed wasn't cancer but a was a cyst). I just can't understand how or why the wait is so long now, due to covid. I guess I'm being naieve to a certain extent, but I can't get my head around how a 2 week wait can now be a 3 month Covid will kill far more people if the resources are no longer available to people.

  • Hi Lilllytan

    I know that in my local hospital all surgeries have been cancelled and staff have been transferred to look after covid patients. The hospital reached full capacity on Monday so the Rainbow hospital is now in use as a hospital for covid patients and also a vaccination centre. 

    I was in clinic yesterday having chemo and the breast clinic was being run. I can only assume that they're seeing fewer people than normal due to the added time of screening everyone that enters the ward. That would certainly put back the list and cause longer waiting times. 

    I'm glad to hear that you're not worried as waiting is the hardest part. We're all desperate for each 12week CT scan and the week or so wait for the results feels like months. 

    Barb xx

     

  • Im sorry to read you are having chemotherapy and I hope you are doing well with your treatment!

    it's funny because since Christmas Day my issues are tooth related, I can't get help on the NHS for either a root canal or extraction and this is taking up all my time and energy worrying about how I will find 795.00 for my root canal and then another 700 for a crown... I guess this stress is taking precedence over my breast lumps! 
    I hope this day brings you some joy and laughter x