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woo hoo Hammersmith here we come! have a few questions

Had call today, Darren has an appointment at Hammersmith on Weds, with I think she said Dr Kancer?!

Whats the normal way they do things? Is it worth arriving early at all? Do they do bloods straight away or do you see Dr, then blood, then back?? Is there somewhere nearby to grab lunch?

Any hints?

His name is Dr. Ed Kamfer.

It might be best if you get there a little earlier as they have a busy clinic and you might have to wait- but they generally 

pretty good at keeping to time. 

Usually- after you book in you will wait to be called for blood tests before you see the consultant. 

Yes, there is a cafe to the right of the waiting area. so you won't have to walk far.

If you are coming by car then you will have to pay to park at the back of the building. It is around 1.80 per hour!

Hope this helps.

Sandy

Hi Lisa,

So pleased to hear that Darren now has his appointment at HH.  When I go to clinic appointments with my husband we usually try and arrive ten minutes early - from our experience any earlier just means a longer wait!  We've also found that if you are running a little late this is not something to panic about.  We were once delayed by a faulty train and they were very good about fitting us in anyway.

Jed usually gets called to have his bloods taken within 15 mins of arriving, and then we wait for 30-60mins before we see the consultant.

As Sandy says there is a coffee shop right by the waiting room which is great for grabbing a drink or snack while you wait.  There is also a canteen on site which does more substantial food (you can get a takeaway from here if you want to get something after Darren has had his bloods done).

Assuming that you are going to the Catherine Lewis block, it's at the back of the hospital so if you park in the car park it's just a short walk.  Otherwise there are a number of buses that stop outside the front of the hospital and then you can just walk through the hospital.  In the main reception area of the hospital at the front of the building there is a small shop as well as a cash machine.

Hope the consultation goes well and you finally get some expert listening, advice and action for Darren.

Bhiru

Dr Marrin wants to see Darren himself so now we have to wait till next Tues. I guess its good that we are seeing the top man, but hate waiting!

whats he like?

Dear Lisa

Bill has seen Doctor Marin quite a few times. He is extremely knowledgable and heads up the clinical trials at the HH. I'm sure he will have a plan of action for your husband and will explain all carefully. I would write down any questions you have to make sure everything is covered however trivial you think they may be. He will not treat you with anything less than respect i'm sure and no question is off limits. I'm sure you will come away feeling better then you went in whatever the clinical outcome. Everyone at the HH is very patient centred and you feel they really care about the whole person not just the disease.

I know its hard to wait but i'm sure it will be worth it.

 

The very best of luck

Sarah

Hi Lisa

He's great.  He saw me at short notice last year after I was first diagnosed by my local hospital and I had an unusual and rare transcript/variant.  He dealt with all our questions about the drugs, explained what the plan was and put me at ease. I felt reassured I was with someone who really knew what he was talking about, which obviously he does!  He also sorted out a speedy start to Glivec when the pharmacy was trying to delay it!.  I've seen him a few times since and each time he's very good and will answer all your questions.  It is good you are seeing him. 

Richard

Hi Lisa - I've seen Dr Marin as well, and would thoroughly agree with all the comments re his huge knowledge, enthusiasm and professionalism. You will be well-looked after. I am really impressed with the Unit at Hammersmith, I just feel so much safer since they have had a hand in my treatment.

Good luck and don't forget to let us know how you get on.

Janet