Beth and Jeff

Jeff - Thanks - I printed off to read tonight.

Beth - I haven't recurred (yet). Hope not to, but the odds are not in my favor. Was dx'd in 1/04 while pregnant. Stage IIIC IDC with 11/18 nodes positive (one was nearly 4 cm, bigger than my primary tumor). Her2+, ER-, PR+23%. Had a mastectomy, AC and then T * 4 each 3 weeks apart, herceptin for a year, rads, tamox. I feel like I'm not being any more aggressive than someone with much earlier staging and much better odds, so I'm always wondering if there is something I can do more. I have a 2 year old and a new baby. I really want to be around for them as they grow up. I NEED to be here for them, and for myself as well. Would you share your story?

I had breast pain in Feb 2002 and my GYN did an exam, mamogram, ultrasound with dx of cysts. (I could see them on the sonogram).
Aug 03 I started having pain again where the "cysts" were made appt with GYN to see about draining them. Noticed slight thickening about time Oct made appt.
Nov 04 nipple collapse sent me for diagnostic tests. 5 cm right breast HER2+ ER+. Lobular cancer does not "lump" and density of breasts (aged 39) was reason team of doctors said it got "missed" early on Mamo/Ultra. Stage IV 3 spots on bones, 2 spots on liver. 10 weeks of Taxol/Hercpetin CT clear, 20 weeks off chemo. Maintenance Herceptin recurred this week after 5 months. 4 new nodes on lungs.
On Taxol/Carbo/Herceptin/Zometa for 6 months (no early out according to Onc) with Lupron shots and hormonal therapy after chemo. My 2 girls are age 11 and 13 so I know how you feel. It sounds like you have a great prognosis.
ER - the Hercptin alone will keep mets away!

Your friend,

Beth