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Lori,
It is unfortunate that you have found the need to visit this site but now that you are here....................
The one thing that struck me was: stage 3a, HER2+++, 8 / 18 nodes +, ER+.
It sounds like you may have your work cut-out for you.
I would ask your Onc about radiation treatments. It has been shown that it reduces micro-metastasis thus reducing the chances of further spread.
ER+ is a problem because at 32 I doubt if you are menopausal. Traditionally, tamoxifen has been used to block ER but it is not a good idea to take it with herceptin as it may actually worsten your condition. Aromatase inhibitors such as arimidex have shown synergy with herceptin however, you have to be in menopause.
Ct scan is good and you will have to get a MUGA prior to taking herceptin. The MUGA checks your heart function (in rare cases herceptin has caused (reversible) decrease in heart function)
I don't know that much about tumor markers so I'll let some else address that.
Good luck with your treatments,
Al
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