Tips and advice for any mental and emotional side effects of treatment
The main challenge is waiting for results. I have been waiting 3 months for the result of my last MRI and this certainly causes some anxiety although I realise that I am fortunate in having been diagnosed early with low grade cancer. Talking to others, including the nurses at PCUK is really helpful and assists in keeping things in perspective.
How this treatment impacted my life the most
Uncertainty. I am not clear whether the cancer is getting worse or if I have no reason for concern given that my Gleeson score is low. The health care professionals are clearly overstretched and despite their best efforts are unable to chase up outsourced MRI results.
Why did I give this answer?
I have absolutely no criticisms of the staff at the hospital and my local health centre and appreciate that they are working under real pressure.However, I feel the delays in results and lack of contact with health care professionals means I am not in a position to know whether I have made the best choice. I appreciate that I have been fortunate in that I received an early diagnosis and that active surveillance is probably the best course of action but some reassurance based on ongoing results and clear information would certainly help.
