Ginger Empey was the first patient enrolled in the phase III clinical trials of Herceptin on August 31, 1995. She had been told to "put her affairs in order as she would probably be dead by Christmas". Ginger was a fighter and decided not to give in. Her entire saga is documented in Robert Bazel's book "HER2 - The Making of Herceptin" and numerous other articles:
Ginger Empey's Story
Well, after 2 grandchildren, the marriage of her daughter, a vacation in Hawaii and enjoying an exceptional quality of life, she is still alive and continues to be treated with Herceptin.
Ginger has provided inspiration to millions of women who overexpress the HER2/neu gene. "If she can do it, so can I" In addition Ginger continues to be a patient advocate and speaks before cancer groups on behalf of the Jonnson Cancer Center about the importance of participating in clinical trials. Ginger will also accompany us and help represent the HER2 Support Group at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium in December.
Christine and I feel that congratulations are in order. Please feel free to email your kudos to her personally to:
vempey@sbcglobal.net
She certainly deserves it !
Warmest Regards
Christine and Joe
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