Meredith,
I know exactly how you feel. I too entered a clinical trial for herceptin and was randomized into the control arm of the study. I think trial nurse was as upset as I was, she actually encouraged me to drop out of the trial. I did end up dropping out of the trial not just based on not getting herceptin, but at that point I had seen 4 oncologists and they had all recommended dose dense chemo which was not part of the trial. I have 2 small children and I just could not stay in the trial know that I would not receive herceptin or the chemo Drs were recomending. I then ended up finding a dr who was willing to give me herceptin off protocol.

As far as other people who might not get herceptin in the trial because of you. I think most trials are looking for a specific # of controls and a specific # who will be in treatment arms, so your dropping out should not affect anyone else getting into the treatment arm. Also did you know that there are people who apply to the studies who want to get the control arm? I was shocked, but when I was looking into mine the nurse said about 1/2 of the people she had apply did not want to get herceptin.

In the end I think you need to look inside and do what is best for you. I think it is important to have confidence in your dr and your plan of care. Good luck in whatever you decide.