Breast Cancer - diagnosed with HER2 Positive 3 weeks ago. My journey so far

Hi all

I am new to the forum and having just read all of your kind informative messages it has given me some comfort.   I was diagnosed three weeks ago with HER2 Positive.  I followed an instinct to get myself checked out, there was no lump but a dull ache and dragging feeling in my left breast, I put it down to stress.  The whole process from seeing the doctor to where I am now has been handled with clarity, efficiency and kindness.  I was referred straight to the Breast Clinic and had a mammogram, which identified three small lesions. At the same appointment I went on to have an ultrasound and a core biopsy taken.  I was told that the lesions were indeterminate  so a matter of waiting for the biopsy results.  They came back within a week and I was called back to the breast clinic to be given the unfortunate results.  

The consultant was clear from the outset that the treatment would be a combination of chemo alongside two drugs called Trastuzumab and Pertuzumab (otherwise known as Phesgo) followed by surgery and radiotherapy.    I have since seen my Oncologist and a treatment plan is now in place starting chemo on 8th January.  I am very scared, one minute putting a brave face on the next a wreck.  My hair is the big thing I’m more upset about as one particular drug called docetexal can apparently cause permanent hair loss.  So I am considering trying the cold cap.  I know the hair thing compared to the bigger picture seems petty but it really is a big deal for me and upsetting my logical thoughts. 

It is so comforting being able to share my anxiety with you but as I start the process I hope that I can bring some positivity to you all along the way.   I am a very strong women under normal circumstance so here goes.  Sending thanks and good wishes to you all. X

  • Hi, this is pretty much my exact diagnosis about 3 weeks ago, looks like we will be following the same treatment path as well, I've yet to get a start date though as haven't seen the oncologist yet.  Like you I am very worried about the hair loss, I dismissed the cold cap at the beginning but  starting to reconsider this now, although it can have its own setbacks, good luck on your journey ahead xx

  • Hi Rosemary I hope you are getting on okay with your treatment, I am in the same diagnosis position as yourself and due to start treatment on 23rd January.  If you feel well enough to share how it’s going that would be hugely appreciated, I can see from reading on here that treatment affects us all differently.  It is quite a daunting worrying journey to be starting, I am generally a strong woman but this diagnosis has knocked the wind out my sails.  If you’re not up to sharing how it’s going that’s totally fine and I wish you well on your journey, take care x

  • Hello Lorraine

    i hope this finds you well.    Well I had my first chemo treatment on 8th Jan.  The whole session was very caring and friendly I felt in good hands.  It was all tolerable.  Just in case you choose to use the cold cap, I did give it a try and 10 days later no hair loss.  I have to admit the first 5/10 mins are pretty painful across the forehead and temples but this settles right down and you get used to it.    The following day I felt a bit flushed but all good.  As you say we are all different.  I have been unfortunate as I got covid two days in and have been in hospital for 10 days, but thats bad luck on my part. I am hoping for a smoother journey going forwards.   I wish you the very best for the 23rd, we couldn’t be in better hands.

    Take Care.

  • Hi Rosemary thank you kindly for you reply, I’m sorry to hear you got Covid, hospital is the best place for them to keep an eye on you, would you mind if I ask about driving? were you able to drive yourself back home after chemo? I live alone and will maybe have to book a taxi back home if I feel wobbly or unwell, fortunately I’m not far from the hospital but I would prefer to drive myself.  I wish you well on your continuing journey, we have to face the treatment with as much optimism as we can so we can put it behind us