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HER2 Positive - Herceptin experience

AW21
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Hi there,

I am 57 and had a recent mastectomy with axillary node clearance.  My breast cancer is HER2 positive/estrogen and progesterone negative, but I have also been diagnosed with a LV heart pump issue.  I am currently debating whether to proceed with Chemo-herceptin/radiation due to the potential side effects, primarily to the heart along with further blood pressure problems.  Therefore, I would be grateful to hear from others who have been in a similar predicament and still proceeded with treatment?  Also, would be pleased to hear from sufferers who declined all treatments apart from their surgery.

Many thanks and best of luck to all in their journeys.

  • Hello AW21

    I'm sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis and the predicament you now face regarding other health conditions and what impact any additional treatment may have. It's understandable that you may be feeling anxious about things. 

    If you've not already done so, it would probably be a good idea to get in touch with your Cardiologist to discuss your concerns with them - I'm presuming that you've already spoken with the Oncologist. 

    I'm unsure if we've any ladies here on the forum who have been in a similar situation. Hopefully, if we have then they will post to share their experiences with you. We do however have a team of nurses that you're welcome to call to talk things through with if you think it may help. They're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. I'm sure they'll be happy to offer any information and advice that they can along with helping you think about any questions you may want to raise with your Consultants. 

    I hope that whatever decision you make, that you feel supported by your clinicians, family, and friends. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Thanks Jenn.  I have also seen some older posts on here about herceptin and heart issues, so will try to follow these up.  Speaking to my own breast care team there seems to be few sufferers in their experience in my predicament which is why I thought I would reach out here.  I've noticed most data is based on sufferers that proceed with chemo and radiation.  I cannot find any studies carried out on the minority sufferers who have declined chemo and radiation after surgery, despite the potential poorer outcome.  It's the quality of life vs quantity that I am interested in.  If you find any papers of interest I would be very grateful. Thanks again for responding.

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