Changes to surgery

[TheOvacomeTeam]

Hello All

We know this is a really worrying time as the NHS manages the current wave of the Covid-19 pandemic. There have been some conversations in the forum recently about postponement and cancellations of surgery and we can see that some of you are worried about how your treatment could be affected. We thought it would be helpful to post here about how to keep the forum safe and supportive during this uncertain and anxious time.

Some of the comments that have been made about postponed surgery here have caused upset to people reading them. We have been contacted by distressed forum members who have explained this is not their experience and they are worried about the effect some of the comments will have on the community. We’d like to clarify that it’s absolutely fine for you to share your own experiences and how you’re feeling. However, we would ask that you keep your posts factual and not speculate about the effects of any changes beyond your personal experience.

The position varies across the different parts of the UK and is changing rapidly. At Ovacome, we’re in regular contact with NHS England and the British Gynaecological Cancer Society. Updated guidance on prioritising treatments is due to be issued this week, and we will post updates from official sources in this forum and on our social media as these arise. In the meantime, please keep in mind when posting that generalised or speculative comments have caused unnecessary upset and anxiety and we ask that you refrain from doing so.

If any of you have experienced indefinite postponement of your surgery you can email [e-mail] and we will escalate this to NHS leaders.

We recognise that at this time of uncertainty, many people will be feeling anxious about changes to their treatment or how their care is being managed. Please do get in touch with our Support Service on 0800 008 7054 or 07503 682 311 or at [e-mail] if there’s anything you want to talk through.

Best wishes

The Ovacome Team

[Davonian]

Thank you Ovacome team. ❤

I find your post reassuring, supportive and helpful as I am sure many of us will.

Jaki x

[Ruebacelle]

I have not been offended by any comments as i appreciate the roller coaster of emotions and respect where they are coming from. Not being subject to NHS restrictions i still appreciate how frustrating and frightening delays are for patients who have to live with daily uncertainties fears anxieties...we are dependent on treatment teams to take care of us and are hugely vulnerable when calenders and information flows are ruptured

[Lizzieanne in reply to Ruebacelle]

I was not offended either and found the posts supportive