Biopsy results

[janmac]

Hi this is my first and I'm sure not last post. My mum has been diagnosed inoperable PC today we went for biopsy to get more information re size etc . Can anyone give me advice how I can sit with her and hear the results and time scale ? I'm trying to be strong but I'm dreading this part x

[janmac]

Is the forum rules notice about my post ? This is all new to me .

[Veema]

Don't worry, the forum rules post is always there as a reference.

I think you've already been dealt the worst blow in hearing that she has inoperable pancreatic cancer...the rest is just background noise to be honest. I don't think they'll give you timescales unless you specifically ask, and even then, it's so hard to say as everyone reacts differently. Is it an oncologist you are seeing? If so, they may well run through any treatment options that are available. You may also find out if it has spread to other parts of the body (liver and lungs are common areas for spread). If it hasn't spread, chemotherapy may well shrink the tumour making it operable (this is what happened with my husband), if it has spread, it's palliative care only, but chemotherapy may still be offered if your mum is fit enough for it and if she wants it to prolong her expected life span. Many people cope really well with chemotherapy and it's not as daunting as expected.

On a practical note, she will be entitled to PIP if she is under 65 or attendance allowance if she is 65 and over...this is not means tested. I would also ask for a referral to the palliative care team...even if she doesn't need anything right now, it's better to have it in place in case she needs access to it later on...they are great at liaising with all the medical professionals involved in her care and will be on hand if she has any pain or needs any specialised equipment. We weren't aware of this and were only referred to palliative care very close to the end and there was so much we could have made use of. It's important to remember that palliative care is not end of life care...people can be on palliative care for many years.

Good luck with the appointment...don't worry about being strong...if you break down and cry, that's ok...they'll have seen it before. But, a certain strength does come from somewhere...you'll feel shell-shocked for a while, but then you will get used to it and it just becomes a new sort of normal.

Any questions, just shout...there's generally someone about most days, and the nurses are on hand during the week and you can call them or email them with any questions.

Vx

[PCUK Nurse Rachel C]

Dear Janmac,

Welcome to the forums, although I appreciate its not the place anyone wants to be, its good that you have felt able to post, and I am sure you will find this a very supportive community. My name is Rachel C, and I am one of the nurses working for the charity.

I am very sorry to hear about your Mums recent diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. I am sure that this is not an easy time for Mum, yourself or the wider family, so I am sure you will find this forum a great support.

Janmac, you may find that it takes approximately 7-10 days to get Mums biopsy results back, just so that you are aware of time scales. If there is anything specific that you would like support with, please do not hesitate to email us directly (email below).

With kind regards,

Rachel (Convery).

Pancreatic Cancer Specialist Nurse

Support Team

Pancreatic Cancer UK

email: nurse@pancreaticcancer.org.uk

support line: 0808 801 0707 (Monday-Friday: 10am-4pm)

[janmac]

Thanks for your replies , comforting to know there is somewhere I can come and ask questions .