New to site.

[jillygirl]

Hello everyone, thought I would introduce myself to the site, some of you may know me from quit support. To cut a long story short Yesterday I was told I had lung cancer. The nurse is calling me this afternoon after they have had a discussion , re what treatment and scans etc I need. Has anyone got any tips that I need to know before talking to my nurse.

I am still in a state of shock , but trying to stay positive for the sake of my family let alone myself. I am sure I shall be visiting this site regularly soon. Jilly girl. By the way I am 63yrs old.

[Billculbard]

Hi Jilly

It's never good news to get! When your nurse calls, try to have a relative or close friend with you, as two pairs of ears are better than one pair. Otherwise, you'll find yourself missing out important information or avice. If you haven't got someone, write down notes. Ask any and every question you can think of. If you don't have it already, ask for the name of the cancer nurse specialist - or is he/she the one visiting you?

Start right now - writing down a list of everything you're concerned about. If the nurse doesn't have the answers, they'll advise you where else to look.

Everyone on this site has been affected by cancer, either as a patient, carer, family member or friend, plus Roy Castle staff. You should feel free to write something at any time . We'll all try to give some kind of support, if possible.

Best wishes, Bill

[EmmaG]

Hi Jilly, really sorry to hear your news. You'll get lots of support from the wonderful people on this site but if you need anymore information we have a section on a website which might be useful to you roycastle.org/lung-cancer/U... Hope this helps & best of luck. Emma

[lucykate7]

Hello Jillygirl, hope your lung cancer nurse was able to address some of your immediate fears and concerns. I agree with Bill, ask questions even if they seem daft, the more unanswered questions you have, the bigger the fears, our minds have a way of filling in the gaps with answers of their own. Look to see if you have a local lung cancer support group, too. Good luck

[jillygirl]

Thank you all for your support. going for petscan next week then they will decide what treatment. Nurse very helpful. I am sure I will be on site more when I know a bit more.

Once again I really do value all your support.

[geoffh]

Jilly...good advice from the above. Start every day positively now as if you are preparing to run a marathon, because that is exactly what you are facing, both physically and emotionally. Take all the advice your medical team can give and be prepared always to look for a second opinion. The NHS is slow, but you can get private second opinions for about £150 - £250 and these will really help speed things up. If you don't think you are getting the best treatment then fight/pay to get to the best specialists.

Be positive and get agressive when you need to be, because this IS a FIGHT for your life.

[jillygirl in reply to geoffh]

Thank you for your advice geoffh, At the moment they are brilliant at Leeds (St. James hospital) In fact I think I have only had one day where they havent contacted me. Next week I will have all the tests finished with. then on the 1st nov they will decide what course of action. They have certainly been rushing it through for me.

thanks again .

[Georgie1]

Hello Jillygirl,

I just wanted to say it will be hard for awhile especially as you have only recently been diagnosed, but as with the others on this site we have/ are going through the same. You will find this site is a great help, with your questions, or stories of hope!

I would like to wish you lots of luck with your up and coming treatment. Keep us up to date with your progress. God bless you x

[jillygirl in reply to Georgie1]

Hi Georgie, Thank you for your support. I appreciate everyones comments. I have a bi-opsy next Friday then the following week see the consultant regarding surgery /treatment. Once I know what is happening I am sure I will be able to get more focused and positive. Thanks again love. xx