How long on herceptin?

[JamieP]

I'm new to this web site. When I was diagnosed in August 2003 (stage IIIa, grade 3, her2 3+, er-/pr-, 8 positive nodes, 4.5cm tumor) I was told I'd be on herceptin for upto 5 years. Since I finished chemo in May of 2004, I've had herceptin every 3 weeks. But, apparently, the standard protocol is 1 year. Every time my oncologist mentions discontinuing herceptin I tell him I'd rather continue. My heart is doing fine according to regular mugga scans, and the only reason he ever gives is because of the potential, unknown risks. Frankly, I'm more afraid of the known short-term risks of cancer then the potential future risks of herceptin. It is a drag to continue treatment, but I'll do anything to improve my odds by even just a little bit. Apparently, there is no data available yet for continuing herceptin beyond a year. Am I the only stage III patient out here who is continuing herceptin beyond one year--I'm coming up on 3 years in January? I'd welcome any feedback on this subject. Thanks.