Waiting.....

[Rubes1984]

I am 28yrs old and have lung cancer. I am currently awaiting test results from a recent lobectomy and the lymph nodes around this cancer area and a section of bone has been sent for testing. It has nearly been 3 wks and no word. I am going crazy waiting - at what point should I be calling them? And who do I call since I am part of 4 different departments - oncology, thorasic medicine, nuclear medicine and outpatient respiratory department. What are other people's experiences with waiting? and how did u cope? Thanks Ruby

[Rikki]

Ruby I tended to be quite assertive with the medical profession. That is too long to be waiting . Even if they have no definitive answer for you yet, you should speak to someone. Who did you see initially. Maybe start with them. The waiting is so stressful. Best wishes to you Rikki

[Rubes1984]

Hi Rikki, I started with the respiratory outpatient section back in Feb but haven't spoken with them since April. After the diagnosis was confirmed I moved to thoracic Medicine as an outpatient til I had the lobectomy as an inpatient. I am supposed to see the surgeon again for follow but have no appt as of yet. The longest I have waited is 4 wks between results and I was totally on edge when I called and got the run around as each department didn't have any follow up spots booked for me. After being very assertive I finally spoke with a specialist who was able to give results over the phone. I will give them til Wednesday next wk and then call. Waiting is surely not fun or helpful. Thanks Ruby

[SILLY]

I just saw this post after responding to your other . I was less patient than you when waiting for results. I always asked when we would get them and if I hadn't heard within a day, or two at the latest, I,or my husband would ring my ENT . Even if he said he'd ring I'd ask when and if he didn't I'd call the next day. He got the message that I couldn't cope with waiting . He showed more consideration. Test results usually are available within days but I've never had a bone scan.

[Rubes1984]

Today I rang Brisbane about my tests and got the run around with statements of " we have no appts for u, we don't have a current referral, u had surgery and no other appt are required". So u can imagine by the end I was very confused and upset.....WTF! So I rang the Bundaberg cancer coordinator and explained my situation emphasising this was not good enough. Within an hr the Brisbane oncology department rang and an appt had been booked for 21st June. They said due to the nature of my circumstance results cannot be given over the phone. Just want to scream --- not impressed more waiting 😞

[Rikki]

Ruby, I am so sorry that is not good treatment at all. I hope you have someone to go with you to hear whatever the news. It might be worth putting in a formal complaint, that is very poor. I hope the news is positive , be kind to yourself in the meantime Rikki