Hi Joan:
As an an adjuvant, the chemo that I took also damaged my heart to the extent that my MUGA was below the minimum % that was needed to get herceptin. Fortunately, my doctor decided to get special dispensation to give it to me anyhow. So of course I'm at much higher risk than normal to have a heart problem. And I'm being watched very closely. I could be kicked off at any time.
I am fighting to improve my MUGA by following a exercise routine to improve my heart function with a special personal trainer. (He knows all about MUGAs & Herceptin!) The doctors told me as well that my heart function will never improve.
But this trainer believes that I have a significant chance of improving my refraction rate. This guy has a special combination of credentials that make him unique and works at a hospital. He was hired to supervise/revamp the hospital's exercise programs for patients. Although doctors know a great deal about disease and the body they aren't taught much about the physiology of exercise. This trainer is a professional athlete and works on strict scientific principles. And he is experienced in dealing with people with heart/lung problems. Besides myself, he is also working with another woman who is on herceptin. He can instruct you by email (that's what I'm doing) if you want to give the self-help technique a try. You will have to buy a heart monitor for while you exercise. (he is very careful).
I believe that I am already starting to show improvement. My next MUGA will tell.
Here is his web page:
http://rhinofitness.ca/
Take care and keep on fighting!
Merridith