Hi

After experiencing sharp pains in my right breast for a few months, I attended my GP. After an examination, my GP referred me for an urgent appointment to the breast clinic. I assumed I would receive an appointment within 2-3 weeks. Three weeks later I had still not received an appointment so I called the appointments secretaries. They had received my urgent referral but I was told I would probably have to wait 7-8 weeks to receive an appointment.

I work for the ambulance service as an Ambulance Technician and I am due to commence my paramedic training at university next month. I had hoped that I would have had the relevant investigations by then.

I am considering going through the private referral route and I was wondering if anyone had any experience of this and if it was much quicker. My mother would help me out financially if I asked her but I really don't want to bother her unless I need to, i.e. I actually get diagnosed with cancer.
I have a lot on my plate at the moment. I have just bought a house and I am in the process of decorating it, I am having issues some of my male work colleagues and my mother is extremely depressed at the moment and rarely gets out of bed. I have had to increase my antidepressants that I was trying to reduce with the aim of discontinuing them completely.

I am constantly tired but my sleep is poor, although I have been a poor sleeper for years. I now have a constant discomfort in my right breast and I cannot bear the thought of having to wait 8 weeks to find out if I have anything to worry about. I lie in bed and worry constantly, when I should be sorting out my house and studying for my course.

If anyone has any support or advice then I would be most grateful,

Apologies for the long post.