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Re: Brain mets
Hi Jeana - I too have been battling brain mets. Mine were found in December 2008 so know that it is possible to battle this for a long time. Our dear StephN is a great example of a success story with brain mets! She has not recurred since her initial brain mets! I can relate to your comment about living in fear of the brain mets returning. At times it can seem overwhelming. Like we live in 3 month increments in between scans, wondering, worrying, what will the next scan show? I find my anxiety level increases as my scan date grows near. I deal with it by taking plenty of fun vacations, occupying my time as much as possible with fun activities with friends and family, volunteering when I can, doing daily yoga or other exercise and, of course, drugs. Ativan is often my best friend. I'm currently trying out Hypnotherapy to get rid of some of the fear and anxiety. I find it very comforting and relaxing. I hope you find your way to a place where you can have some peace from your worries. Know that you are not alone.
With love,
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4/17/08: Dx Stage IV at age 30 - extensive mets to liver, lungs, and bones. Er/Pr-, Her2+++
April 08-Aug 08:Taxotere, Cytoxan, Herceptin, Zometa - complete response!
Sept 08-Dec 08: Herceptin +Zometa for maintenance.
Jan 09-April 09: Brain mets. Add Tykerb. Watch and wait.
April 09: Gamma Knife 10 brain mets, add Xeloda.
Sept 09: Gamma Knife to 1 brain met.
Nov 09- April 10: Lung progression, add Gemzar to Herceptin, Zometa.
May 10- Sept 10: HER2 Vaccine Trial
Sept 10: Add Tykerb for more brain mets.
Oct 10: Gamma Knife to 7 brain mets.
Dec 10: Switch from Zometa to Denosumab.
Jan 11: Gamma Knife to 3 brain mets.
March 11: Gemzar/Herceptin for lung/bone progression.
April 11: More brain mets - Intrathecal Herceptin
June 11: Ixempra/Herceptin for lung, soft tissue progression.
Aug 11: Gamma Knife
Sep 11: Abraxane/Herceptin
Future: NED
Send me a PM if you'd like to follow my journey on Caringbridge.
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