Hello,

I just wanted to look somewhere for support, with people going through similar things.

I've been really unwell the last 6 months, constant nausea, loss of appetite and bowel problems. My doctors initially put it down to IBS, in 4 months I lost 2 stone, I had to drop out of uni and it's still going on now. 

The doctors have since referred me on for an urgent Colonoscopy, approx 5 weeks ago but i've yet to hear anything. The doctor asked me to check for lumps in my breasts/neck/armpit and I was thinking "surely not, I'm 23" but I did find a lump in my armpit thats been causing me a bit of discomfort. 

The doctor had a look at it today, without trying to worry me..she said "I don't want you to panic, but there is an area of concern and I think it needs to be seen too asap" so i've been referred on for a screening and expecting my appointment letter in the next 2 weeks - I am absolutely terrified. All my family are trying to remain positive by telling me that it's going to be okay, and I hope it is but I don't know that..it's the not knowing that is terrifying me. I can't stop thinking about it and I'm petrified.

I don't know what to do or who to turn to and I'm really scared. I've been really poorly over these 6 months and what if it's been cancer the whole time? I don't know what to do with myself and no one around me understands my fear.