[Carol.hope]

I just sent my comments to the writer. Thought I'd share them here, too. I am so grateful for HER2 Support!

My surgical oncologist told me about HER2Support.org in June 2005. I was anxious to find people who had survived breast cancer, to hear success stories, and to know how they’d done it.

Christine’s name and telephone number were listed on the site, so I called her. I had always considered myself very healthy, and I did not like the idea of chemotherapy. Christine told me about her experience, and how thankful she was that she was able to get Herceptin. She was still alive 7 years after her stage 4 diagnosis, which was very unusual at that time, and she ascribed this to Herceptin. I learned more about Herceptin and decided that was the drug I wanted. Hearing about Christine’s success, directly from her, and her personal encouragement made a big difference in my outlook. And we all know that outlook can sometimes make a difference in outcome.


After I finished chemotherapy (after having to stop Herceptin because of heart problems), I was anxious to get my energy level and my brain’s abilities back. It was good to read research articles on HER2Support. I especially appreciated a member called R.B., who often wrote about omega-3 and omega-6 fats. I learned quite a bit from his articles and a book he recommended.

Seeing Christine take leadership in organizing this whole group, and participating in ASCO conventions, gave me great inspiration. Seeing women actively involved in enjoying life together as they dealt with the hardships of cancer was very hopeful.


Early on I enjoyed the camaraderie of the group, but when it was time for me to get back to life, I found I did not have enough energy or attention to participate much. After quite a break, my brain is doing well enough that I can now check in once in a while, and I always learn something interesting. When a member dies, it feels so sad. When others offer their support to frightened newcomers, or to those in long struggles, it is very touching.


Over the past year I have written a book about chemo brain injury, my experiences and recovery. The book refers several times to HER2Support.org, which is so helpful in many ways. I have great admiration and appreciation for Christine, for starting this, for Joe for all his work, and for the many people, men and women, who share their stories, talents, interests and empathy on HER2Support.

With much gratitude,
Carol Devenir