|
Joannie and all;
I am in a very similar position. Dx in 3/03, mastectomy, StageIIB with 2 nodes +, HER2+++, grade 3. I was in the control arm of the Herceptin study (B31), received 4 AC, 4 TX, radiation and no Herceptin. When positive results came out in late spring, I started asking my onc about getting Herceptin and doing my own research. She advised against the Herceptin even after checking with many of her colleagues because I was 18 months out and there was no data to support benefits. I had accepted this decision and then this week received a packet from NASBP researchers with new consent forms. Study will pay for women who entered after April 04 As a group 1 patient randomized before April 26, 2004 the study will not pay for my Herceptin. The consent says "After considering this point (lack of data to support late use of herceptin) if you and your doctor decide that you want to receive Herceptin, you may do so." I am scheduled for a visit with onc next Friday. I am again in the position of trying to decide what to do. I am torn. Part of me is saying "Go For It" as prevention. The other is questioning if I want to go back into patient mode if it isn't absolutely necessary. I am a school administrator with 2 teens and a very busy life and am worried about side effects, time... I'm not sure if insurance would pay given this vague recommendation from study. I have been searching for other women who are in this Limbo, so I could seek advise about what I should do. I would so appreciate your input or any others'. The women posting here are so obviously informed, intelligent, and empathetic, I would value the input. Amy
|