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Seems like doing TDM1 now secures your options. Any chance of getting the Tykerb override in writing in case you need it down the road?
Which TDM1 trial you are aiming for?

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I know very little about these trials, but as a business coach, I know something about making decisions. If there's no difference medically speaking between taking one tx first and then the other, or doing it the other way round, you should take the one that's hardest to get into. If it's more likely that you will be able to get Tykerb after the TDMI, you should choose to do the latter first.

And there's a neat trick to test your own instincts: Get a coin and flip it. Decide which side it Tykerb and which one is the TDMI trial. Now notice your first emotion when you see the outcome. Are you relieved? Than that's the way you instinctively want to go. If you are disappointed, you want to go the other way, and that's ok too. If you don't have a strong feeling either way, you can come to a decision talking to the experts. You will feel ok with whatever you decide.

Love

Jacqueline

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So thrilled to read your news!!! Two good decisions = no bad choice. Go with your gut feeling on this.

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I am so happy for you! Good luck!

Lisa

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Sheila,
Wow..Congrats!! Happy dance, happy dance.

I vote TDM-1 the miracle drug. I fully agree with your logic that you could use the TDM-1 and then (IF) you needed to you could use the Tykerb as a fall back.

Rich...our resident attorney gave great advice to get agreements in writing regarding the Tykerb to save time. But of course...we know you won't need it.

I am thrilled for you and also wanted to let you know that you are an inspiration to us all in terms of being your own advocate and NEVER, NEVER taking NO for an answer.

AWESOME

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Shelia,

I am so happy to hear your good news. Like Lori, you have always been an inspiration to me not to give up Hope. You are truly a Warrior.

Please let us know which choice you make. Will you have to travel far to do the trial?

Amelia

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Shelia,

Great job on your diligence with your treatments. You are a hero for all of us!!!

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Hi Sheila,
I am on the TDM-1 in Ohio. I haven't had the first staging yet, but so far it has been easy to take--I am hopeful--Good luck with your decision
Kathy T

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Sheila I am thankful that you have 2 good options. I sure don't know which to choose, but I can feel the excitment re: the TDM-1.

Meditate and pray about it. You will be taken care of.

Love,
Lexi

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Sheila, Sounds like you have the choice between 2 good protocols. I am on xeloda/tykerb right now. Best of luck with whatever you choose. Fondly, Ceesun

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Sheila,

This is wonderful news.

I would go with the TDM-1 trial, first. As you mentioned, you can always go on Tykerb/Herceptin in the future.

Sending you a lot of hugs for all your hard work.

Joan

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I vote TDM-l but just am so happy and either choice
you make opens the door for you. Follow your gut,
and you probably already know what that is. This
is such great news. Persistence and patience paid
off....
patb

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By in writing, it probably doesn't have to be a document. An e-mail responding or mentioning it even in passing might do. Just thinking getting folks to go ultra formally "on the record" might shut them down. Sometimes I happen to not get to the phone in time to prevent people leaving voice mails..coincidentally when I want a record of things. It feels less formal to them yet they know they're being recorded so it's all good. Ahem.

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Rich, Good point, but when the denial was overturned by my apeal, they have to send it via letter to my house, and the Dr. Just like they send a formal letter of denial...so I think I will keep it safe, just in case!

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What great news Sheila!!

I always say go with your gut feeling. If you feel comfortable with the Trial, go for it!! Like you said, if that doesn't work well for you, you still have the Tykerb!!

Congrats for two successful battles!!

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Fantastico!!

There is some justice in the world. Well-done my friend!

Your logic on holding off on the Tykerb makes much sense.

TS

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I am so happy to read that you have choices !! Such fabulous news !!

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oh my God! Sheila! I have these things (tears) leaking uncontrollably from my eyes! Of course, normally I would think it was the chemo (yes, my dear, even T-dm!) But I know differently - they are tears of joy. I knew your prayers would be answered...but in multiples??!!!

Sheila, to me this seems and easy choice. Gold plate the letter authorizing Tykerb as single agent with Herceptin, get on the DM1 trial pronto, and then you not only have pertuzumab to back you up, but also Tykerb/Herceptin.

Sounds like a plan b hat trick!

You're right, the window for DM1 has presented itself now for a reason; climb through it, sister!

Much much love!
Chris

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Sheila,
This is really weird, and maybe a bit Santa Cruz...but in addition to all the prayers and constructive ideas you've received, on Thursday or maybe it was Friday?) I was thinking, praying, and composing email about you. The email was to a friend of mine, not a close one (she's the wife of one of my hubby's old college friends), but she works for BCBSIL.

The gist of the email was, "hey, hope you're doing well, when will we get together next, and oh by the way, I know this has nothing to do with you, but I thought you should see the view from the other side...about a good friend of mine" and attached a link to the "denial" thread.

I was very emotional while writing the email, and decided to wait a day or two before sending it...

But maybe the message "got sent" anyway...

Can't wait to hear what you decide
Chris