Keep existing treatment or get a second opinion?

[dearjilly]

Hello everyone, I was wondering if you could help me with my decision for getting a second opinion. Right now I am on herceptin only, with tamoxifen. I had radiosurgery for a brain met. I know that many of you are on lapatinib as well. My doctor is holding off with that drug until she sees progression. Right now, the brain met has shrunk with no new lesions and herceptin seems to be working. She wants to keep me on herceptin, as long as my heart will take it. Once they take me off of herceptin, the government won't let me go back on. (I live in Canada)
I was looking in to the vaccine trial for her2 and asked my doc about it, but she seems to be against the idea, because right now, my treatment is working for me and why change anything. This makes sense to me, but it is coming from a doctor who said that statistically, I have so many years to live. (I didn't ask to know about statistics by the way). I love this doctor, but if the person who is choosing my treatment is someone who thinks I'm going to live only until a certain time, is she the right person for the job?
Thanks everyone. I guess I have some thinking to do. I feel better know that I have gotten this all out in writing.
Much love to you all and any advice would be appreciated.
Jill xoxo

[Pamelamary]

Dear Jill,
We are all so different and bare statistics don't say much about each individual, so it is difficult to give advice. However, I think it's always worth getting a second opinion, even if only for peace of mind
I understand Herceptin doesn't cross the blood/brain barrier, unlike lapatinib, but there is something in sticking with a regime that is relatively gentle if it is keeping things stable, and keeping the "big guns" in reserve.
A chat with another doctor might help clarify your thinking.
Best wishes..... pam

[BonnieR]

I think second opinions are always a good thing. The statistics approach makes me uncomfortable too. I think she should operate on the assumption you will live forever! This is YOUR life and no one is going to look after your interests better. Even if you don't change anything, another opinion will offer reassurance and peace of mind.Or give you options. Go for it. Nothing to lose Keep the faith

[Lauriesh]

Is there a certain vaccine trial that you have found that you are interested in?

I did one in Seattle, and for that one I had to stop my Herceptin & Tykerb. If you have found one that lets you stay on your meds, why not go for it? To me, it can only help and risk is low if they let you stay on Herceptin and tamoxifen.

Good luck


Laurie

[NEDenise]

Jill,
Please call me...I'm sending you a PM with my number, in case you lost it (as I have misplaced yours!). Call any time the kids give you a few minutes :)
Looking forward to your call!
Denise

[Jackie07]

Jill,

Most doctors will stick to what works until it has lost the effect. Then they will prescribe a new one. A second opinion is always a good idea and most doctors don't mind that.