[Jean]

Shadowpilot,
I am sorry that you have been dx with bc. But, you have found a great board with many wonderful memebers to help you along your way.

There are many reasons to consider the treatment. It is good that you are node negative, but DO NOT base your decison on that. Yes, it is favaorable but there has been studies on node neg. woman who have
recurred, those Her2 cells love to travel and can do so via our blood system. You have many great years ahead of you, so of course your dr.
is considering your age. Your young and should have not major problems
with the treatment (unlike a woman who is in her 70's).

I had a small tumor please do not believe that size is the major decision factor...once again it is favorable to catch the tumor as early as possible,
but there are millions of Tumor Cells inside a small tumor. You are dealing with a very aggressive form of bc...therefore, you may wish to be aggressive with your treatment. You will cut your chances of recurrence by at least 50%....I think that is great odds, don't you?

The first two years are highest for recurrence, your one year of herceptin
will be a large benefit to halt the disease.

I guess by now you realize that I am for the treatment and the herceptin.
But this is an chocie only you can make. Make a decsion based on knowledge and not fear of treatment...etc. The treatment is doable,
certainly it is not a walk in the park...but many women have successful
completed their treatment.

FYI there is no data on small tumors and Her2 treatments yet....since
herceptin was recently approved for early sage disease. If you have
additional questions, just reach out to me, I would be happy to help
you in any way.....you can PM me.

All Good Wishes, and Welcome to Her2!
Hugs,
Jean