Paul
04-11-2004, 02:40 PM
Dear Lola,
I'm a son whose mom was diagnosed with HER-2 positive breast cancer in April 2002. When my mom was first diagnosed, no one took the time to discuss with her the exact meaning of a "HER-2" breast cancer diagnosis. Over the last two years, I have performed a considerable amount of research on her behalf and have had many, many discussions with her doctors. In several situations, my research has altered her treatment at a well respected teaching institution. I have learned, as have the women who come to this board, that "information is power." As far as I can tell, there is no such thing as a HER-2 positive breast cancer specialist. In fact, it is difficult to find a "pure" breast cancer oncologist.
You seem genuinely surprised that a caretaker can learn about this disease in utter and total detail. The information is there. The only question is, do you have the patience and persistence to pursue it, and the courage to discuss (and confront if necessary) your doctor with that information. On behalf of my mom and my entire family, I believe this situation represents a "fight" for life. If there was ever a time to perform research, I think this is THE situation. What do you think Lola?
I hope this helps. If you would like to discuss this issue in more detail, please feel free to contact me via email.
I'm a son whose mom was diagnosed with HER-2 positive breast cancer in April 2002. When my mom was first diagnosed, no one took the time to discuss with her the exact meaning of a "HER-2" breast cancer diagnosis. Over the last two years, I have performed a considerable amount of research on her behalf and have had many, many discussions with her doctors. In several situations, my research has altered her treatment at a well respected teaching institution. I have learned, as have the women who come to this board, that "information is power." As far as I can tell, there is no such thing as a HER-2 positive breast cancer specialist. In fact, it is difficult to find a "pure" breast cancer oncologist.
You seem genuinely surprised that a caretaker can learn about this disease in utter and total detail. The information is there. The only question is, do you have the patience and persistence to pursue it, and the courage to discuss (and confront if necessary) your doctor with that information. On behalf of my mom and my entire family, I believe this situation represents a "fight" for life. If there was ever a time to perform research, I think this is THE situation. What do you think Lola?
I hope this helps. If you would like to discuss this issue in more detail, please feel free to contact me via email.