WHEN the family doctor found a lump in an Tyldesley mum's breast she was immediately referred to a Bolton specialist.

The family was stunned when the patient received a letter from a secretary stating that due to high demand there was an 18-week waiting list -- but she would definitely be seen within six months.

Isn't that just appalling?

Thankfully in her case the sad fact that her mother had died of breast cancer had been omitted from a report and because of that her case became more of a priority.

Imagine any woman panic stricken, merely by the fact that she had discovered a lump, not being able to have her mind put at rest for months.

Not only would anyone unfortunate enough to be in that position be out of their mind with worry, but the wait could make the difference between life and death.

I've passed the case on to an angry MP Terry Lewis who has promised to investigate.

I suppose if the words private and cash had been mentioned she would have been in right away. It's a frightening scenario for those who cannot afford to jump the queue.