CommunitiesMental Health and MindfulnessHow do you cope with long waits between bladder cancer tests and treatments?

How do you cope with long waits between bladder cancer tests and treatments?

LM

Community Member

a month ago

Is anyone else having a hard time with waiting? Once they found a mass in my bladder I waited 6 weeks for a cystoscopy. That day came only for them to tell me they weren't going to do it but just move right to the TURBT...another 10 day wait. Then found out I had two very aggressive types of bladder cancer with lymphovascular invasion...another 3 week wait for CT Scan of my chest and MRI of my pelvis. This whole process started in January and I haven't even seen an Oncologist yet! I feel caught in a system that doesn't see this as urgent as I do. I feel like just the next number in the queue. Its frustrating and feels like they don't care.

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11 comments
Comment
KJ

Community Member

a month ago

It is terribly hard to wait on the test but also the agony of waiting for results. Seems your waiting is long. Voice your concerns!

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CA

Community Member

a month ago

Waiting for test results and treatments can create overwhelming anxiety, especially when dealing with such serious news. Many people in this community have shared similar feelings about healthcare delays and feeling like their urgency isn't being recognized by the medical system. Consider reaching out to a patient navigator or social worker at your treatment center who may help coordinate appointments, and remember that connecting with others here who understand this journey can provide valuable emotional support during these challenging waiting periods.

SC

Community Member

a month ago

Im sorry about this. I definitely feel like this and I see this with my mom as well

SC

Community Member

a month ago

Don’t let them do that. Go somewhere else. Do you have an Emory cancer clinic around you. I called them and was in in 3 days had tests two days later. 2 days later met with a surgeon, oncology doctor ent, dentist and radiation specialist in one day. They all presented their treatment plan. 4 days later had my surgery no radiation and chemotherapy as it was found early. I can’t tell you how impressed I was and continue to be tested every 3 months. Still no more cancer.

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LM

Community Member

a month ago

That's great! I'm very happy for you. Unfortunately, we don't have Emory here. I have tests this week and an appointment with a different Urology Oncologist on Monday. He is at Fred Hutch which is the best cancer care facility in our state. I believe things will pick up now.

MO

Community Member

24 days ago

OMG go to a different clinic

LM

Community Member

24 days ago

Thanks. On Monday I am seeing a top tier Urologic Oncologist/Surgeon at the best cancer care facility in our state...that should get things rolling!

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SO

Community Member

15 days ago

I am so sorry. I am frustrated by the wait, also. I found out I had metastatic lung cancer in February. Numerous tests March 10 a surgeon told me it is inoperable. March 16 met with oncology. Was scheduled to start treatment April 9 but it got postponed. I am feeling sicker every day and sitting home waiting. I was a nurse for 47 years and know how to voice my concerns....but still have to wait for availability of appointments. I understand your frustration. I do a lot of praying and it helps some. Hope things start in a positive direction for you.

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LM

Community Member

15 days ago

Thanks Sue, I'm sad to hear about your waiting as well. Makes me feel like they just don't care. Praying does help...talking to the one who truly loves us. I will lift you up in prayer.

SO

Community Member

15 days ago

Thank you Lorri. Yes, I feel they don't care. I have requested a different oncologist as there are about 7 at the cancer center.

LM

Community Member

15 days ago

That's great. I got a different one as well and he is fabulous! What a difference the right doctor can make.

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