HER2+,ER+,PR+ AND DOUBLE MAST. DEBATING TCH OR NOT? h

Sue18

Hi, I am new to this site, and am having a hard time with a big decision. My story is in Oct 2015 I had Stage 4 colon cancer, I lost 1/2 of my colon and a full hysterectomy. I went through 6 months of chemo which just about killed me. Now I was diagnosed with Stage 1 BC. I just had a double mast with reconstruction. My OC wants me to do TCH next month, but I am worried of the side effects, and am thinking of delaying it, and monitor. I'd like to know if it's worth the pain, and risk of heart problems or possibly try something more natural? Thanks

lifeb4me

Hi Sue,

I am sorry you are going through this again, but you will find lots of support and help in these boards. It helped and still helps me a lot.

I can tell you that I am also HER2 positive and have done Taxol, Herceptin and Perjeta. I have been lucky and had very few side effects from herceptin and perjeta. Mostly a runny nose and some mild diarrhea the next couple of days after infusion (easily controlled with imodium and BRAT diet). The taxol is harder on your body as its "real" chemo. I had some rash, nail problems and some neuropathy on the tip of my fingers. It was not fun, but doable. Herceptin and perjeta are targeted therapies and attack only the cells that have the Her2 in the cancer and are a game changer in an aggressive cancer like Her2. Before them the prognosis was not good for those of us with her2 positive tumors.

I would suggest you get a second (and maybe third) opinion to see if all MOs would suggest the same treatment. If they do, I would believe it's the best course of action. You can do this, you've already gone through so much. I know it sucks, but we will be here for you if you need us.