Hey, Champions (You, Who Beat The Odds)
 

Happy 2013 to all!
I'd like to share the secrets of beating the odds here...so for the ones who've changed diet, attitude, spirituality, I'd love for you to share how YOU believe your actions helped you overcome HER2.

Love to all,
Karen

Re: Hey, Champions (You, Who Beat The Odds)
 

Positive attitude, strong support from spouse and family, and having a good understanding of how to transition concepts from one regimen to another.

Re: Hey, Champions (You, Who Beat The Odds)
 

I totally agree what Paul said but would like to add my 2 cents:

1. Take it easy - Relax, relax and try to relax. Anxiety and depression are damaging

2. Don't overdo - Moderate excercise is good but no need to exhaust ourselves physically to show we can fight the big "C"

3. Healthier diet ( more fresh veggies and fruits ), supplements to build immune system to overcome the harsh side effects from chemo

4. Give complimentary healing method a shot -When i was on traditonal Chinese herbal medicine for 3 months from Nov 2011 to April 2013, my CA27.29 kept dropping. When i was put on tykerb and xeloda, i stopped it and my TM kept going up 2 points per month. My last check up was in November at 34 so i resumed it last month. I also started practicing Guolin Qigong, a well known and established form of Qigong for cancer patients/survivors. To learn the authentic one, you might need a trip to China as not many people practice it here in the US. If you google it online, you will find many live examples of miracle cure from patients that were told to go home and enjoy their last few months. It is no easy committment though- getting up early and practicing at least 2 hours a day. I am only doing 30 mins this month but will gradually add more hours. I am also planning a trip to China next year and stay for 3 weeks just to learn Guolin Qigong.

5. Be a proactive patient - I remember JML mentioned in her recent post of an arrogant young radiologist had less ideas on the treatment options than herself, who have been dealing with this diseases longer than the young doctor's pratice. Unfortunately quite a few oncologists or people work in this field are not equipped with the most recent research results or trials or treatment options. I think it really helps to be in a support group of such- knowledge is power !!!

6. Stay away from people that bother you - If someone makes you upset, stay away from him/her. Don't waste your time on negative mood.

7. Read more positive survivor stories and believe that you will be one of them.

8. Prepare financially if you can- Some drugs like avasin can be prescribed off label for BC but the expense is intimidating. In China where i come from,the 1st line chemo for her2 BC herceptin is not a covered drug and it costs about $50,000 USD for a whole year's infusion. Talking about Tykerb or Perjeta, you can imagine !!