[Andrea Barnett Budin]

Hi Benjamin,

I am thrilled you are interested in supplementation, as I do believe it has been a part of the recipe that keeps me alive and well.

In '95 I was dx w/4th stage lobular carcinoma (L). The surgeons did a surgical biopsy of both breasts. Only the left was involved. And may I add -- when I metastasized in '98 -- Herceptin was not yet a possibility (still in clinical trials) and therefore I didn't have the benefit of receiving that which may have prevented my recurrence.

In '95 I had a mastectomy and tram flap reconstruction, on the same table. This was very important to me, and my sanity. You can read my protocol below in my signature.

In '98 I learned that I was 80% positive for HER2, which though it meant my highly aggressive bc was even more of a mountain to climb, I felt I could potentially have benefit of Herceptin to target the defective gene that has been found to be responsible for about 20% of bc.

I went with not the kinder gentler chemo (Navelbine) recommended by 1 of my oncs, and not with Taxol (a cousin of Taxotere) recommended by another of my oncs. I went with Taxotere because my 3rd onc said it was the most aggressive weapon they had in their arsenal. I DETERMINED TO TAKE THE HARDER ROAD, AND FIGHT FIRE WITH FIRE!

I'd read much re supplements and integrative therapies between '95 and '98. Learned a lot. Went immediately to the integrative onc who specialized in supplements, meditation, guided imagery and working with the patient to help them heal in ways others oncs raise eyebrows over.

2 of my oncs did NOT want me to do the supplements until AFTER I was done with chemo. Because they didn't know how their properties would interact with the chemo drugs. I asked my nutritional oncologist (who I have come to adore, and who I lovingly call my nut onc) -- What do you think? He believes that DURING CHEMO IS WHEN YOU MOST NEED TO BE ON SUPPLEMENTS!! And, though it took much courage, I KNEW I was talking about MY life and MY body -- I chose to take the supplements from the getgo in '98...!

I am forewarning you that your docs are likely to frown on supplements and especially during chemo. But it is a decision you and Rachel need to make based on your gut (what I call my Inner Voice) and proceed as you feel comfortable.

I've learned much more since '98, as you can imagine. I am not a medical person but I am an avid learner and this topic is one I am strongly interested in, as a matter of Life and Death, if you will.

I imagine you've glanced through my ridiculously long list of supplements.

I always offer them to those who ask, with my dosage (as recommended by my nut onc) and I give the reason why I take each. I've googled and read up on each and every one.

I am happy to share. To encourage you to increase the odds in your favor (and of course Rachel's). Don't get caught up in dreary statistics. We are each a potential miracle.

I will tell you my Richard Bloch story one day, if you like (H & R Bloch). He beat 4th stage lung cancer back when no one was winning on that front, when his docs told him to get his affairs in order and I chose to survive anyway! There are lots of such stories. Read about those and throw the books about poor odds aside!

After to review my list in this thread -- please ask any and all questions you may have! I stand ready and more than willing to guide you as best I can.

Andi