HER2 Support Group Forums - View Single Post - Is there a standard for follow-up tests?

G. Ann · 03-23-2006, 06:23 PM

Hi Julierene, Tousled 1, Juanita, Kristen, Kimberly, Sandy H, Maggie, Cathya,

A big thank you for taking time to pass along your information. What a wonderful resource this website is to learn more and to have my spirit lifted. Seemed to be a few differences as far as types of tests ordered and frequency, but I was encouraged by several comments that my care fell within the guidelines. Some of the extra testing makes sense for those having symptoms.

Being educated certainly helps "us" approach our onc's. Our "peace of mind" is very important in requesting tests and overall coping. I think being honest with our onc's regarding the emotional side of BC and our symptoms, during treatment and after, is so important. On my last onc visit to plead my case for Herceptin, I think he finally understood what I was thinking. I definitely was not being the compliant "good" patient and shared with him more of my thoughts and fears than ever before. Of course, going outside of my medical group to get that second onc opinion (after being discouraged by primary onc to get Herceptin) helped close the deal for Herceptin! Thanks so much for sharing.
G.Ann

03-23-2006, 06:23 PM	#12
G. Ann Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Posts: 78	Great responses Hi Julierene, Tousled 1, Juanita, Kristen, Kimberly, Sandy H, Maggie, Cathya, A big thank you for taking time to pass along your information. What a wonderful resource this website is to learn more and to have my spirit lifted. Seemed to be a few differences as far as types of tests ordered and frequency, but I was encouraged by several comments that my care fell within the guidelines. Some of the extra testing makes sense for those having symptoms. Being educated certainly helps "us" approach our onc's. Our "peace of mind" is very important in requesting tests and overall coping. I think being honest with our onc's regarding the emotional side of BC and our symptoms, during treatment and after, is so important. On my last onc visit to plead my case for Herceptin, I think he finally understood what I was thinking. I definitely was not being the compliant "good" patient and shared with him more of my thoughts and fears than ever before. Of course, going outside of my medical group to get that second onc opinion (after being discouraged by primary onc to get Herceptin) helped close the deal for Herceptin! Thanks so much for sharing. G.Ann