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Hi JoJo: I stressed with my Onc. that I wanted him to be very truthful with me and to not hide anything. He told me if I did nothing about the cancer that I would probably be dead within 2 years. Because of all of the negative prognostic indicators ( Stage IIIA, multiple large tumors in breast, positive lymph nodes and HER2+++ ) we felt that there was no such thing as being too aggressive with treatment. Had surgery, chemo, radiation and participated in a clinical trial with herceptin. Once I had completed all of that he said I should go ahead with my life and forget about the cancer...it was gone. Right!!! I don't think so!!!! but I'm glad he's such an optimist. Anyway, I've been NED for the last year and am currently NOT taking herceptin. Had scans and tumor markers in Dec. and all came back clear/normal. As to how it's changed my life...I now say the heck with the housework when my 11 year old daughter wants to go to the park. I try not to sweat the small stuff because it's mostly ALL small stuff. My diagnosis was a wake-up call for me and a blessing in disguise. I feel I've been given the opportunity to let those I love know how I feel and live WHATEVER time I have left to the best of my ability and the fullest extent. I continue to see my Onc. and he keeps telling me I'll be fine. In Jan. he said he didn't want to see me for 6 months because I had been doing so well. I remain vigilent and aware of my body and any changes but have tried to take his advise and put "everything" behind me. I am regaining some of the confidence I had in my body. Not the easist thing to do. I hope this helps. Take Care, Linda
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