Sad news and a lost NHS referral letter

[MsMinervaMouse]

So in December last year, I went to my GP and requested to go to be tested for BRCA1. I got my letter from Great Ormond St (not the children’s hospital) in January to say that my case was being reviewed, and I’d receive an invitation for an appointment within two weeks. After multiple phone calls, it’s now 10 months later and still no appointment.

What prompted me to go to my GP in the first place was my cousin discovered she was BRCA1 positive after battling extremely aggressive breast cancer. My brother is also positive. We suspect our mother was too; she passed away from breast cancer in 2001 at age 49.

I got an email from my aunt this evening to say my cousin unexpectedly died in her sleep yesterday evening. She was 36 years old. The cancer treatment had caused all sorts of long term after effects and although cancer free, her health was never the same.

This has scared the absolute bejeezus out of me. I am desperate for that appointment but I can’t seem to find my letter anywhere. How do I contact the referral team to see what’s happening? I could always call the hospital switch board of course, but I don’t think they’ll tell me anything without the code on the letter.

I’m so shocked beyond words. But this has only made me more determined to get myself sorted.

Rest in peace Erin ❤️

[Floridaagogo]

I have no idea but so very sorry to hear this xxx

[Mexy02]

I am so sorry for your loss, could your gp chase your referral on your behalf ? Sending you a big hug x

[buryboy]

Oh crikey
Sorry for your loss

[dippiedawnie]

Get your NHS number off your GP and then ring the hospital and ask to be put through to the relevant department. As long as you have that and your DOB and address they should be able to send you another letter.

[taylaboo]

So sorry to read this. Glad you are being proactive. Sending hugs x

[baggers]

So sorry for your loss. I hope you get seen by the hospital soon. I would ask your GP to chase the appointment for you

[Powlay]

My mother had it and my sister. Sister had a mastectomy years back.

I wouldnt get the test done as they wanted a 30 minute consultation explaining the consequences even before the test.

Daughter gets tested in 2 years time.

Hopefully you can kick the relevant people into action and get tested for peace of mind.

[Kd0758]

Your Doctor may have been CC’d into the letter so maybe worth asking them? I know I was reading a letter in similar circumstances a few weeks ago and their GP was sent a copy.

I’m sorry for your loss and I understand the need to find out for yourself.

[Talland 2016]

So sorry to hear your news
As your Gp secretary if she can either chase up the referral on your behalf or give you contact details