Vickie

Hi Vickie,
Congratulations on your fifth tx, I know that's not an easy regimen. When will you be finished?
Are you scheduled for radiation as well?
It is encouraging that you had negative nodes, however I think it's wise of you to be investigation your options and staying informed regarding clinical trials. The protocol for early stage Her2 positive disease is based on what is known about breast cancer in general, and speaking personally, I believe as the trial data is made available it's quite possible the protocol will change, and then you may find you are eligible for Herceptin as a preventative.
Keep an eye on the trials, and good health to you!
Love, Lolly

Vickie
Dont make the mistake I did...I was very comfortable as I had no positive nodes...even though I was Her2 3+.....then 1 1/2 years later I had mets to the nodes above my collar bone...like Lolly...I wish I had been given the Herceptin before I experienced mets...they cant possibly get every lymph node in the area...I would push for it, the Herceptin...if you cant get it, be your own advocate and monitor yourself closely...push for scans and exams and bloodwork...chances are you will do fine, many do, but be aware of your body....mets caught early are more treatable!
Hugs
Sheila

Sheila,
I'm curious what size was your cancer and did you have chemo? My oncologist said no to herceptin because of the size--4mmx2mm--and it was grade 1. She says the risks of a heart problem is too high for my situation. I need to decide if I should push to get herceptin.
Janet

See my post below about the Bayer serum test. They claim it can monitor cancer levels in the blood. Also, take time to view the turorial, about 20 minutes, it is very informative.

Warmest Regards
Joe

it says right up front that the test is ONLY for metastatic patients. eventually, perhaps they will make it available to non-metastatic patients. but until then, it may not be useful to you at all.

We will ask Dr. Carney those questions when we speak with him.

Joe