Help With Reseach Into Giving A Diagnosis

I am currently doing some research into giving patients 'bad news' and I was hoping to get some feedback from some patients who have experienced this, especially if it went badly. All my research is completely anonymous and will be used to write an essay. I would like to know how you felt the consultation when you were given your diagnosis went and how that has affected you in the long term. Thank you.

I have been diagnosed with cancer twice. The first time the surgeon was very caring and told me that the results of the biopsy showed Lymphoma. I had never heard of lymphoma. He explained it to me from a surgeons knowledge, and told me that the success rate of treating it was like 70%. He then referred me to an oncologist. Being notified of the success rate of treatment was helpful to me since it was a good percentage. If the percentage was bad, I would leave that up to the oncologist so they could discuss it along with how they were going to treat it. The second time I got my diagnosis (4 years later) the surgeon who was doing rounds for the surgeon who did the biopsy came in and said "Well, I guess you already know you have lymphoma." I told him "No, but I do now". He said what he had to say and I heard what I needed to hear, but I would not recommend that. Cancer is too serious of a condition for the doctor to just casually mention it like this in passing. To many people, this type of notification would devistate them.

Thank you. A major point that is emerging in my report is that doctors should choose the setting in which they give bad news carefully - ideally private, and will time available for a good explanation and questions. Thank you for helping me back this up.

Am at a Public Library- ltd 4 time, etc But saw your inquiry; A worthy endeavor! I've had & contin 2 have a # of experiences w Drs that have delayed/compromised care as they don't want 2 B the messenger... I call it the 'Titanic
Effect'.
Wish my PC was wrkg. Rarely get out & about. E-
mail setup, but can't rely on it 4 communicat'g
If I can B of help, I'd like 2. I don't see way 2 respond directly. In hopes of another opportunity online in nr furure- --- Message edited by CancerCompass staff: for personal protection, email address removed. Please review CancerCompass Member Guidelines at http://www.cancercompass.com/common/guidelines.html ---- & I can follow-up however best. Sorry can't B more specific now, but clock tick'g. Nd 2 check on Trtmnt Facilities. Good luck w project. Linda