Sad

[Rhonda4]

When my oncologist told me on Monday that he was proposing Herceptin every 3 weeks for a year starting 8/18 (when I was originally dx in Feb and I asked him about it he said no due to my being "weakly positive" but, when the news broke just prior to my last chemo in May, I had a feeling that he may have a change of heart when I saw him again after radiation and he did) I have to admit, I was somewhat saddened. Yea, I was a little bumbed that I won't get my port out for another year, but even more so I'm sad for all the women who are far worse off than me (I was Stage 1 (1.6 cm), Grade 3, ER/PR-, no nodes, Her2+) that are FIGHTING for this drug and can't get it and it was literally "handed to me". I'm grateful, THANKFUL that I'm getting this additional protection to never get this again but, I'm also sad for all those that can't/won't...I wish there was something I could do. Just had to vent

[jojo]

Hi Rhonda,

I really appreciate your honesty; I actually thought you were brave enough to post such a message like this. :-)

What could you do about it? That is a very good question. I would start off being empathized (spell?) & compassionate for fellow cancer survivors. That is one way we ladies would much appreciate your support.

If not a doctor or anything in the health sector, I would just be alert for any impactful info about cancer (clinical trials, new breakthroughs, etc) & share it with us.

I hope this will make you feel better....

[Lisa]

Rhonda,

I agree with Jojo, with one exception. Don't you dare be sad! Everyone here I'm sure will be thrilled to hear you're being given Herceptin as a possible help. We aren't sad, so don't you be!

Love and light,
Lisa

[jojo]

Lisa is right on the target! :-)

[AlaskaAngel]

Thanks for remembering all of the people who have been "left out" by the current general consensus of oncologists and the lack of forethought in the design of the clinical trials. Being ignored and "left behind" by them IS painful. But reading your post meant a lot to me, and as Lisa and Jojo said, we can only be happy for those who are able to benefit.

AlaskaAngel

[sarahdalton]

Maybe one way is to persuade the drug companies to make the drug available at a lower cost - the extra amount of patients would make up the difference and help save more lives and therefore make the drug companies look better. how can we do this?
sarah