HER2 Herceptin treatment

Hi Penlope, thank you for posting! My BC basic diagnosis is similar to yours and so is the treatment protocol. I had same type of BC 21 years ago, but was Hormone+-, Her2 -. This time its just the opposite (opposite quadrant of breast as well) so is considered a new malignant tumor. I had my lumpectomy last year 30 December, 1st chemo with Herceptin was 14 Feb and scheduled for 3 months; 3 week break then localized radiation and chest lymph nodes 5 times a week for 6 weeks, Herceptin continues until Feb 2024.

I'm familiar with the surgery and radiation, but this chemo/Herceptin treatment is completely new. Actually, there's been much improvement in medical science and technology since my last treatments. Much better and I'm thankful for that! Herceptin significantly lowers the risk of recurrence, so another positive.👍️

I have some things to take care of this morning, so I'll close for now. I'd be grateful if we can connect as our journeys continue. The cancer staging I have so far and how it is considered early stage is where I have some confusion as far as the oncologist's choice for this treatment regiment and I'd like to compare notes, as well as anything else specific to this BC, treatment, and side effects. 🙏

Meanwhile, I hope you have been able to celebrate having your last chemo treatment and are finding more energy than you've had before. Congratulations for clearing the first hurdle! 😅🎉❤️

Patty in Alaska

Hi Ladies,

I am 52 and was just diagnosed with breast cancer (e/p+ and HER2 +) I haven't started any treatment yet but I am terrified. I have an added worry. I am a cdiff survivor and have been clear of the infection for 3 years now and hoping it doesn't roar it's ugly head during cancer treatment. I should find out on Friday what my treatment will look like. I know it will be surgery, chemo, herceptin for a year and radiation + hormone therapy but not sure what order the surgery/chemo will be. My tumor is 9X9 mm and as of right now no lymphnode involvement. That could change during the surgery but I'm hoping not. I am so scared and feel so alone sometimes. On the flip side, I keep myself busy, am still working and trying to find joy in every day. Afterall, worrying about something before it happens is not healthy. It's just so hard to do. I'd love to come along on this journey with you if you'll have me.

Hi Penelope and others who have shared,

I’m age 43, was 42 at diagnosis which is E/P+ & HER2+. Was diagnosed Aug 24, 2022, had a lumpectomy in Sep. All the scans done in Oct, and Chemo and Herceptin began Nov.

I was to have 12 weeks of Taxol but had a very bad reaction during the first treatment and was switched to Abraxane which was given every 3 weeks for the remainder of the 12 week period. I had very bad nerve and bone pain for a few days after each chemo, was torture. I’m so glad it’s done now. My last chemo was the end of Jan 2023, herceptin will continue every 3 weeks for rest of the year. I’ll be having 19 treatments or radiation starting Mar 3. I’m anxious about it.

I’ve been doing walking each day and basic weight lifting to keep my strength up. But do feel tired still, and feels challenging to be jumping right into radiation after finishing chemo. It also sounds like they’ll start me on tamoxifen during radiation so it’s going to be a challenging month to come.

But, I know I need this to give myself the best survival rate so that keeps me going. I remember the shock I was in when first diagnosed. It all seems unreal and still does at times. People here have been great and supportive.

jenny.