Stephanie,
Welcome to the group. How have you escaped us for the past few years? Christine, the founder of this group, lives in Carlsbad and was also treated by Dr. Shiftan. Dr. Shiftan is also a Board Member of our organization.
Have you ever read "HER2 - The Making of Herceptin"? It tells the story of Barbara Bradfield who was recruited for the Phase I clinical trials. She received Herceptin for 3 months and absolutely no more after that. She is still cancer free
almost 15 years after the trial and living well in Oregon. Here is her story as it appears on our website:
http://her2support.org/story1.htm
On the other hand, Ms. Ginger Empey of Bakersfield has been on Herceptin over 11 years and has no long term effects other than being in complete remission.
Dr. Slamon told her 2 years ago that in all likelyhood she could discontinue Herceptin and remain cancer free. She chose to stay on Herceptin.
Warmest Regards
Joe