Guest guest Posted December 28, 2006 Report Share Posted December 28, 2006 Hi everyone! I just joined today and wanted to introduce myself. My name is Val, and my breast cancer was found in Nov 2006. I had my regular mammo and they found calcifications that they biopsied a week later. I had a 5.5 mm tumor, infiltrating ductal, estrgen and progestron negative, HER2/neu amplified. Lymph nodes were clear. They tell me becasue of the HER2 and the fact that there have been close family members who have had breast cancer (including and uncle) that the chemo and Herceptin are recommended. We, (DH and I)decided to go with it. He wants to keep me awhile longer if he can :-) I have been to the hospital twice this week for PET/CT scan and MUGA scans, I get a port put in the 3rd and chemo starts the 10th. I have been told I WILL lose my hair. I never thiught this would bother me but I am finding that yeah..maybe I DO want a wig! My hair stylist/friend said she would help me however she can. We are going to try and make it as fun as we can, new hair color, but similar style, funky hats, etc. I am just trying to figure out best time to get it and how long I may need it?? I know everyone is different. I'll read some more posts and see what advice I can gather...I basically wanted to say hello!! Val Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 28, 2006 Report Share Posted December 28, 2006 Hi Val and welcome to the group. I was diagnosed in May 1990 with infiltrating ductal carcinoma the tumor was 2.5 cm I was Stage II.. I had one bad node out of 23. I had 6 mo of chemo (12 treatments) no radiation or reconstruction. I will keep you in my prayers. Sounds like you have a good outlook. Hugs nne Breast Cancer Patients Soul Mates for Life http://www.geocities.com/chucky5741/breastcancerpatients.html BreastCancerStories.com http://www.breastcancerstories.com/content/view/433/161/ Angel Feather Loomer www.angelfeatherloomer.blogspot.com Check out my other ornaments at www.geocities.com/chucky5741/bcornament.html Lots of info and gifts at: www.cancerclub.com Newbie here too! Hi everyone! I just joined today and wanted to introduce myself. My name is Val, and my breast cancer was found in Nov 2006. I had my regular mammo and they found calcifications that they biopsied a week later. I had a 5.5 mm tumor, infiltrating ductal, estrgen and progestron negative, HER2/neu amplified. Lymph nodes were clear. They tell me becasue of the HER2 and the fact that there have been close family members who have had breast cancer (including and uncle) that the chemo and Herceptin are recommended. We, (DH and I)decided to go with it. He wants to keep me awhile longer if he can :-) I have been to the hospital twice this week for PET/CT scan and MUGA scans, I get a port put in the 3rd and chemo starts the 10th. I have been told I WILL lose my hair. I never thiught this would bother me but I am finding that yeah..maybe I DO want a wig! My hair stylist/friend said she would help me however she can. We are going to try and make it as fun as we can, new hair color, but similar style, funky hats, etc. I am just trying to figure out best time to get it and how long I may need it?? I know everyone is different. I'll read some more posts and see what advice I can gather...I basically wanted to say hello!! Val ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.409 / Virus Database: 268.15.28/606 - Release Date: 12/28/2006 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 28, 2006 Report Share Posted December 28, 2006 Hi Val, Another her2 sister! I'm curious what chemo your doctor is recommending. There were some recent articles about certain treatments shown to be very effective for er/pr- her2+ women that did not include adriamycin. Here it is: Taxotere®-based Regimens with Herceptin® in Women with Early-stage HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Demonstrate the Highest Reduction in the Risk of Death to Date and Provide a Treatment Option Without Anthracyclines Results of Second Planned Interim Analysis of Phase III Study: BCIRG 006 SAN ANTONIO, Dec. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Cancer International Research Group (CIRG) and sanofi-aventis today announced the results from the second interim efficacy and safety analysis from the BCIRG 006 Phase III breast cancer study, which confirms, at a 3-year median follow-up, that Herceptin® combined with Taxotere®-based regimens significantly improved disease-free survival for women with early HER2-positive breast cancer. The BCIRG 006 study randomized patients to receive the control arm AC-T [4 cycles of doxorubicin (A) and cyclophosphamide © followed by 4 cycles of Taxotere® (T)], or either of two experimental Herceptin®-(H) and Taxotere®- based therapies: AC-TH (adds 1 year of Herceptin® treatment to the AC-T regimen with Herceptin® starting concurrently with Taxotere®), or TCH (6 cycles of Taxotere® and carboplatin © with 1 year of Herceptin® starting at the first cycle). Patients were prospectively stratified according to their nodal status and hormone receptor status. The primary endpoint was disease-free survival (DFS). Secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), safety, including cardiotoxicity, and pathologic and molecular markers. The safety analysis was performed by an Independent Data Monitoring Committee. In terms of a reduction in the risk of death, 41% (p < 0.0041) and 34% (p < 0.017) of patients in the AC-TH and TCH arms, respectively when compared with the non-Herceptin-containing control arm. The relative reduction in the risk of relapse was 39% (p < 0.001) and 33% (p = 0.0003) for AC-TH and TCH respectively vs. control. This interim analysis showed that 92% and 91% of patients were alive at 4 years in the Herceptin/Taxotere-containing arms (AC- TH and TCH) respectively compared to 86% in the AC-T arm. Of note, TCH (combination of Taxotere®/carboplatin/Herceptin®), the regimen without anthracycline, demonstrated similarly significant improvement in disease free and overall survival as the AC-TH arm. However, the TCH arm yielded a five- fold decrease in significant cardiotoxicity when compared to the anthracycline/Herceptin®-containing arm. These data were presented at the 29th annual San Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS) in San , TX - USA. " This trial demonstrates an optimal therapeutic index for these patients with the use of TCH (which did not include doxorubicin), thus avoiding the significant cardiac damage related to the sequential use of anthracyclines and Herceptin®, " said Dennis Slamon, PhD, MD, Co-Chair of the BCIRG 006 study and Director of Clinical and Translational Research at UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. " In this interim analysis, 6 cycles of chemotherapy in the TCH regimen provided similar benefit as AC-TH (8 cycles of chemotherapy in total) without increasing cardiotoxicity. In addition, no secondary leukemias have been observed so far in the TCH arm compared to four leukemia events in the anthracycline-containing arms, although further long term hematologic adverse event follow up will continue. These data should help influence daily practice with TCH being considered an option for women with early stage HER2 positive breast cancer, irrespective of nodal status. " The cardiac toxicity of the 2 experimental arms significantly favored the TCH regimen. No cardiac deaths were observed in either arm. There were 20 congestive heart failure events in AC-TH versus four in the TCH arm. Moreover, there were 50% fewer asymptomatic declines in cardiac function in the TCH arm as compared to AC-TH. Also, in terms of other toxicities, the TCH arm appeared to be superior to AC-TH with regards to the main toxicities in particular sensory neuropathy (36.1% vs 49.7%), nail changes (28.7% vs 43.6%), and myalgia (38.6% vs 55.5%). However, more grade 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia (5.4% vs 1.2%) and anemia (5.8% vs 3.1%), were observed in the TCH arm compared to the AC-TH arm. About the BCIRG 006 Study The BCIRG 006 study was designed to maximize efficacy while minimizing toxicity in adjuvant Herceptin®-based therapies. Between April 2001 and March 2004, the study enrolled 3, 222 women with early stage HER2-positive breast cancer, with positive axillary lymph nodes (LN) as well as those without LN involvement. In this second interim analysis, at a 3-year median follow-up, AC-TH and TCH significantly improved DFS and OS as compared to the control arm. The relative reduction in the risk of relapse was 39% (p < 0.001) and 33% (p = 0.0003) respectively, for AC-TH and TCH vs control. The relative reduction in the risk of death was 41% (p < 0.0041) and 34% (p < 0.017) respectively, for AC-TH and TCH vs control. In addition, the absolute DFS benefit at 4 years is similar for the two Herceptin®-containing arms (6% and 5% for AC-TH and TCH, respectively). Notably, the same level of DFS and OS benefit was also obtained for the 29% of node negative patients enrolled in the study. In terms of safety, there was a significant difference in the major toxicity that has been consistently seen with Herceptin®-based therapies i.e. cardiac toxicity. Common to all of the Herceptin® adjuvant trials was the evaluation of congestive heart failure and cardiac-related deaths. As mentioned above, the cardiac toxicity of the 2 experimental arms significantly favored the TCH regimen. Further, in terms of other toxicities, the TCH regimen appeared to also be superior to the AC-TH arm. The BCIRG investigators and leadership wish to express their deep appreciation to the women who willingly participated in this randomized controlled trial and their commitment to improving outcomes for all women challenged with breast cancer. Slamon noted that, " They are our colleagues in this study rather than the research subjects. " The study was sponsored by sanofi-aventis, had financial support from Genentech, and was conducted by CIRG. Indications and Usage Breast Cancer Taxotere® is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior chemotherapy. Taxotere® in combination with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of patients with operable node-positive breast cancer. About TAXOTERE® Important safety information WARNING: Taxotere® treatment can cause serious, physically limiting, and potentially life-threatening side effects, such as infection, low blood-cell counts, allergic reaction and retention of excess fluid (edema). Taxotere® should not be given to patients with low white-blood-cell counts, abnormal liver function, or a history of allergic reactions to Taxotere® or any of the ingredients in Taxotere®. Before each Taxotere® treatment, all patients treated with Taxotere® must receive another medicine called dexamethasone. This drug can help reduce the risk of fluid retention (edema) and allergic reactions. Taxotere® should be administered only under the supervision of a qualified physician experienced in the use of anticancer treatments. Appropriate management of complications is possible only when adequate diagnostic and treatment facilities are readily available. Treatment-related acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has occurred in patients given anthracyclines and/or cyclophosphamide, including use with Taxotere® in adjuvant therapy for breast cancer. The most common severe side effects are low white-blood-cell count, anemia, fatigue, diarrhea, and mouth and throat irritation. Low white-blood-cell count can lead to life-threatening infections. The earliest sign of infection may be fever, so tell your doctor right away if you have a fever. Other common side effects from Taxotere® include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, rash, infusion-site reactions, odd sensations (such as numbness, tingling, or burning) or weakness in the hands and feet, nail changes, muscle and/or bone pain, or excessive tearing. Because of the potential risk of fetal harm, pregnant women should not receive Taxotere®. Women of childbearing potential should avoid becoming pregnant during treatment with Taxotere®. Before receiving Taxotere®, tell your doctor if * You have any allergies * You are taking any other medicines -- including nonprescription (over-the-counter) drugs, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements When taking Taxotere®, contact your doctor if * You have symptoms of an allergic reaction (warm sensation, tightness in your chest, itching/hives, or shortness of breath) * You experience any other side effects For full prescribing information, including boxed WARNING, call or visit http://www.fda.gov/cder/foi/label/2006/020449s039lbl.pdf. About CIRG: BCIRG is the breast cancer division of the Cancer International Research Group (CIRG). CIRG has performed a number of new and innovative clinical trials with new cancer therapies. Active participation by its global network of dedicated cancer research leaders and investigators has made CIRG the success it is today. The organization is dedicated to bringing rational and innovative therapeutic concepts into the clinical trial setting through translational approaches based on the underlying biology of the disease. To further this objective, CIRG recently merged with Translational Oncology Research International (TORI). TORI is a smaller clinical trials group directly linked to several basic research laboratories in which new therapeutic molecules are evaluated. CIRG has offices located in Paris (France) and Edmonton Alberta (Canada). For information about CIRG, please visit our website: http://www.cirg.org. Valma wrote on 12/28/2006, 4:47 PM: > Hi everyone! > I just joined today and wanted to introduce myself. My name is Val, and > my breast cancer was found in Nov 2006. I had my regular mammo and they > found calcifications that they biopsied a week later. I had a 5.5 mm > tumor, infiltrating ductal, estrgen and progestron negative, HER2/neu > amplified. Lymph nodes were clear. They tell me becasue of the HER2 and > the fact that there have been close family members who have had breast > cancer (including and uncle) that the chemo and Herceptin are > recommended. We, (DH and I)decided to go with it. He wants to keep me > awhile longer if he can :-) I have been to the hospital twice this week > for PET/CT scan and MUGA scans, I get a port put in the 3rd and chemo > starts the 10th. I have been told I WILL lose my hair. I never thiught > this would bother me but I am finding that yeah..maybe I DO want a wig! > My hair stylist/friend said she would help me however she can. We are > going to try and make it as fun as we can, new hair color, but similar > style, funky hats, etc. I am just trying to figure out best time to get > it and how long I may need it?? I know everyone is different. I'll read > some more posts and see what advice I can gather...I basically wanted > to say hello!! > Val > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 28, 2006 Report Share Posted December 28, 2006 --Thanks for the info! I, in fact will be put on Taxotere and Cyclo (as the nurses were calling it) Along with the Herceptin. My older sister (who is a 13 year survivior and a Home Hospice Nurse) says these are commonly used. Little Sis has to make sure she takes her pathology report when she visits her this weekend LOL! Sometimes having a sister like this is good but sometimes it isn't. :-) She probably knows TOO much about the condition! Ahh, but she means well! I am looking forward to being in this group, looks like I will get lot's of good advice and support. Val Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 28, 2006 Report Share Posted December 28, 2006 my diagnosis came prior to the san antonio conference - I'm early stage, her2+, no node involvement, and had A/C (which I tolerated remarkably well) followed by taxotere (which kicked my ass) and herceptin. I finished taxotere in the middle of november (but am still experiencing the effects - just lost a nail and one is about to fall off...)and am on herceptin till next summer... peace marisa > > Hi Val, > > Another her2 sister! I'm curious what chemo your doctor is recommending. > There were some recent articles about certain treatments shown to be > very effective for er/pr- her2+ women that did not include adriamycin. > > Here it is: > > Taxotere®-based Regimens with Herceptin® in Women with Early- stage > HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Demonstrate the Highest Reduction in the > Risk of Death to Date and Provide a Treatment Option Without Anthracyclines > > Results of Second Planned Interim Analysis of Phase III Study: BCIRG 006 > > SAN ANTONIO, Dec. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Cancer International > Research Group (CIRG) and sanofi-aventis today announced the results from > the second interim efficacy and safety analysis from the BCIRG 006 Phase > III breast cancer study, which confirms, at a 3-year median follow- up, that > Herceptin® combined with Taxotere®-based regimens significantly > improved disease-free survival for women with early HER2-positive breast > cancer. > > The BCIRG 006 study randomized patients to receive the control arm AC-T > [4 cycles of doxorubicin (A) and cyclophosphamide © followed by 4 cycles > of Taxotere® (T)], or either of two experimental Herceptin®- (H) and > Taxotere®- based therapies: AC-TH (adds 1 year of Herceptin® treatment > to the AC-T regimen with Herceptin® starting concurrently with > Taxotere®), or TCH (6 cycles of Taxotere® and carboplatin © with 1 > year of Herceptin® starting at the first cycle). Patients were > prospectively stratified according to their nodal status and hormone > receptor status. > > The primary endpoint was disease-free survival (DFS). Secondary > endpoints included overall survival (OS), safety, including cardiotoxicity, > and pathologic and molecular markers. The safety analysis was performed > by an Independent Data Monitoring Committee. > > In terms of a reduction in the risk of death, 41% (p < 0.0041) and > 34% (p < 0.017) of patients in the AC-TH and TCH arms, respectively when > compared with the non-Herceptin-containing control arm. The relative > reduction in the risk of relapse was 39% (p < 0.001) and 33% (p = > 0.0003) for AC-TH and TCH respectively vs. control. This interim > analysis showed that 92% and 91% of patients were alive at 4 years in > the Herceptin/Taxotere-containing arms (AC- TH and TCH) respectively > compared to 86% in the AC-T arm. Of note, TCH (combination of > Taxotere®/carboplatin/Herceptin®), the regimen without > anthracycline, demonstrated similarly significant improvement in disease > free and overall survival as the AC-TH arm. However, the TCH arm yielded > a five- fold decrease in significant cardiotoxicity when compared to the > anthracycline/Herceptin®-containing arm. > > These data were presented at the 29th annual San Breast > Cancer Symposium (SABCS) in San , TX - USA. > " This trial demonstrates an optimal therapeutic index for these > patients with the use of TCH (which did not include doxorubicin), thus > avoiding the significant cardiac damage related to the sequential use of > anthracyclines and Herceptin®, " said Dennis Slamon, PhD, MD, Co- Chair > of the BCIRG 006 study and Director of Clinical and Translational > Research at > UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center. " In this interim analysis, 6 > cycles of chemotherapy in the TCH regimen provided similar benefit as > AC-TH (8 cycles of chemotherapy in total) without increasing > cardiotoxicity. In addition, no secondary leukemias have been observed > so far in the TCH arm compared to four leukemia events in the > anthracycline-containing arms, > although further long term hematologic adverse event follow up will > continue. These data should help influence daily practice with TCH being > considered an option for women with early stage HER2 positive breast > cancer, irrespective of nodal status. " > > The cardiac toxicity of the 2 experimental arms significantly > favored the TCH regimen. No cardiac deaths were observed in either arm. > There were 20 congestive heart failure events in AC-TH versus four in > the TCH arm. > Moreover, there were 50% fewer asymptomatic declines in cardiac function > in the TCH arm as compared to AC-TH. Also, in terms of other toxicities, > the TCH arm appeared to be superior to AC-TH with regards to the main > toxicities in particular sensory neuropathy (36.1% vs 49.7%), nail > changes (28.7% vs 43.6%), and myalgia (38.6% vs 55.5%). However, more > grade 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia (5.4% vs 1.2%) and anemia (5.8% vs 3.1%), > were observed in the TCH arm compared to the AC-TH arm. > About the BCIRG 006 Study > The BCIRG 006 study was designed to maximize efficacy while minimizing > toxicity in adjuvant Herceptin®-based therapies. Between April 2001 and > March 2004, the study enrolled 3, 222 women with early stage HER2- positive > breast cancer, with positive axillary lymph nodes (LN) as well as those > without LN involvement. > In this second interim analysis, at a 3-year median follow- up, AC-TH > and TCH significantly improved DFS and OS as compared to the control arm. > The relative reduction in the risk of relapse was 39% (p < 0.001) and 33% > (p = 0.0003) respectively, for AC-TH and TCH vs control. The relative > reduction in the risk of death was 41% (p < 0.0041) and 34% (p < 0.017) > respectively, for AC-TH and TCH vs control. > In addition, the absolute DFS benefit at 4 years is similar for the two > Herceptin®-containing arms (6% and 5% for AC-TH and TCH, respectively). > Notably, the same level of DFS and OS benefit was also obtained for the 29% > of node negative patients enrolled in the study. > In terms of safety, there was a significant difference in the major > toxicity that has been consistently seen with Herceptin®-based therapies > i.e. cardiac toxicity. Common to all of the Herceptin® adjuvant trials > was the evaluation of congestive heart failure and cardiac-related deaths. > As mentioned above, the cardiac toxicity of the 2 experimental arms > significantly favored the TCH regimen. Further, in terms of other > toxicities, the TCH regimen appeared to also be superior to the AC- TH arm. > The BCIRG investigators and leadership wish to express their deep > appreciation to the women who willingly participated in this randomized > controlled trial and their commitment to improving outcomes for all women > challenged with breast cancer. Slamon noted that, " They are our colleagues > in this study rather than the research subjects. " > The study was sponsored by sanofi-aventis, had financial support from > Genentech, and was conducted by CIRG. > > Indications and Usage > Breast Cancer > Taxotere® is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally > advanced or metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior chemotherapy. > Taxotere® in combination with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide is > indicated for the adjuvant treatment of patients with operable > node-positive breast cancer. > > > About TAXOTERE® > Important safety information > WARNING: Taxotere® treatment can cause serious, physically limiting, > and potentially life-threatening side effects, such as infection, low > blood-cell counts, allergic reaction and retention of excess fluid (edema). > Taxotere® should not be given to patients with low white- blood-cell > counts, abnormal liver function, or a history of allergic reactions to > Taxotere® or any of the ingredients in Taxotere®. > Before each Taxotere® treatment, all patients treated with > Taxotere® must receive another medicine called dexamethasone. This drug > can help reduce the risk of fluid retention (edema) and allergic reactions. > Taxotere® should be administered only under the supervision of a > qualified physician experienced in the use of anticancer treatments. > Appropriate management of complications is possible only when adequate > diagnostic and treatment facilities are readily available. > Treatment-related acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has occurred in patients > given anthracyclines and/or cyclophosphamide, including use with > Taxotere® in adjuvant therapy for breast cancer. The most common severe > side effects are low white-blood-cell count, anemia, fatigue, diarrhea, and > mouth and throat irritation. Low white-blood-cell count can lead to > life-threatening infections. The earliest sign of infection may be fever, > so tell your doctor right away if you have a fever. Other common side > effects from Taxotere® include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, rash, > infusion-site reactions, odd sensations (such as numbness, tingling, or > burning) or weakness in the hands and feet, nail changes, muscle and/or > bone pain, or excessive tearing. > Because of the potential risk of fetal harm, pregnant women should not > receive Taxotere®. Women of childbearing potential should avoid becoming > pregnant during treatment with Taxotere®. > Before receiving Taxotere®, tell your doctor if > > * You have any allergies > > * You are taking any other medicines -- including nonprescription > (over-the-counter) drugs, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements > > When taking Taxotere®, contact your doctor if > > * You have symptoms of an allergic reaction (warm sensation, > tightness in > your chest, itching/hives, or shortness of breath) > > * You experience any other side effects > For full prescribing information, including boxed WARNING, call > or visit > http://www.fda.gov/cder/foi/label/2006/020449s039lbl.pdf. > About CIRG: > BCIRG is the breast cancer division of the Cancer International > Research Group (CIRG). CIRG has performed a number of new and innovative > clinical trials with new cancer therapies. Active participation by its > global network of dedicated cancer research leaders and investigators has > made CIRG the success it is today. The organization is dedicated to > bringing rational and innovative therapeutic concepts into the clinical > trial setting through translational approaches based on the underlying > biology of the disease. To further this objective, CIRG recently merged > with Translational Oncology Research International (TORI). TORI is a > smaller clinical trials group directly linked to several basic research > laboratories in which new therapeutic molecules are evaluated. > CIRG has offices located in Paris (France) and Edmonton Alberta > (Canada). For information about CIRG, please visit our website: > http://www.cirg.org. > > > > > Valma wrote on 12/28/2006, 4:47 PM: > > > Hi everyone! > > I just joined today and wanted to introduce myself. My name is Val, and > > my breast cancer was found in Nov 2006. I had my regular mammo and they > > found calcifications that they biopsied a week later. I had a 5.5 mm > > tumor, infiltrating ductal, estrgen and progestron negative, HER2/neu > > amplified. Lymph nodes were clear. They tell me becasue of the HER2 and > > the fact that there have been close family members who have had breast > > cancer (including and uncle) that the chemo and Herceptin are > > recommended. We, (DH and I)decided to go with it. He wants to keep me > > awhile longer if he can :-) I have been to the hospital twice this week > > for PET/CT scan and MUGA scans, I get a port put in the 3rd and chemo > > starts the 10th. I have been told I WILL lose my hair. I never thiught > > this would bother me but I am finding that yeah..maybe I DO want a wig! > > My hair stylist/friend said she would help me however she can. We are > > going to try and make it as fun as we can, new hair color, but similar > > style, funky hats, etc. I am just trying to figure out best time to get > > it and how long I may need it?? I know everyone is different. I'll read > > some more posts and see what advice I can gather...I basically wanted > > to say hello!! > > Val > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 28, 2006 Report Share Posted December 28, 2006 Hi Val, I'm glad you're doing TCH, which studies have shown is the most effective treatment for er/pr- her2+ women. You must be from Canada because I think that treatment is widely used there, unlike the US. My sister is a doctor, which for the most part is pretty useful. I didn't always understand things (or I thought I understood but didn't) and my sister was helpful in clarifying things. - Valma wrote on 12/28/2006, 8:07 PM: > --Thanks for the info! I, in fact will be put on Taxotere and Cyclo > (as the nurses were calling it) Along with the Herceptin. My older > sister (who is a 13 year survivior and a Home Hospice Nurse) says these > are commonly used. Little Sis has to make sure she takes her pathology > report when she visits her this weekend LOL! Sometimes having a sister > like this is good but sometimes it isn't. :-) She probably knows TOO > much about the condition! Ahh, but she means well! I am looking forward > to being in this group, looks like I will get lot's of good advice and > support. > Val > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 29, 2006 Report Share Posted December 29, 2006 Hee hee..sorry , Central Ohio here! :-) It must be because the 3 worked so well together the news spread. So far today I am ok. Trying not to think about the port being put in next week or chemo starting the following week. I am concentrating on bettering my diet again. In April 2006 I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and have lost 35 pounds. The last 2 months since the cancer diagnosis I have not watched as close and gained back 6 pounds. I know when chemo starts my diet will be important. I have started eating my 3 fruits a day again and lower fat foods and lot's of veggies. Now I just need to get my hubby to stop bringing home the chips! HA HA! blessings! Val > Hi Val, > > I'm glad you're doing TCH, which studies have shown is the most > effective treatment for er/pr- her2+ women. You must be from Canada > because I think that treatment is widely used there, unlike the US. > > My sister is a doctor, which for the most part is pretty useful. I > didn't always understand things (or I thought I understood but didn't) > and my sister was helpful in clarifying things. > > - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 30, 2006 Report Share Posted December 30, 2006 Val, hair loss will depend on the chemo you have. Do you know what the plan is for chemo? It will also depend on you.... we are all different in how we lose it and how it comes back. I lost mine about a couple days after my second dosage of A/C (dose dense - every 2 weeks) but it started returning about the second treatment on Taxotere. Funny that I lost my eye lashes and eye brows on Taxotere, but my head started to spout hair during that treatment. Barb Michigan Newbie here too! Hi everyone! I just joined today and wanted to introduce myself. My name is Val, and my breast cancer was found in Nov 2006. I had my regular mammo and they found calcifications that they biopsied a week later. I had a 5.5 mm tumor, infiltrating ductal, estrgen and progestron negative, HER2/neu amplified. Lymph nodes were clear. They tell me becasue of the HER2 and the fact that there have been close family members who have had breast cancer (including and uncle) that the chemo and Herceptin are recommended. We, (DH and I)decided to go with it. He wants to keep me awhile longer if he can :-) I have been to the hospital twice this week for PET/CT scan and MUGA scans, I get a port put in the 3rd and chemo starts the 10th. I have been told I WILL lose my hair. I never thiught this would bother me but I am finding that yeah..maybe I DO want a wig! My hair stylist/friend said she would help me however she can. We are going to try and make it as fun as we can, new hair color, but similar style, funky hats, etc. I am just trying to figure out best time to get it and how long I may need it?? I know everyone is different. I'll read some more posts and see what advice I can gather...I basically wanted to say hello!! Val Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 30, 2006 Report Share Posted December 30, 2006 .... Funny that I lost my eye lashes and eye brows on Taxotere, but my head started to spout hair during that treatment. > Barb > Michigan Isn't that weird? I had the same experience - now I have about a half inch of hair on my head - kind of swirly (not quite curly), with patches of white...(at the temples, mostly) also, I lost the hair inside my nose (sheesh!) I'm seeing now faint traces of eyebrows come in, but really want my lashes to grow back.. this has been a bitch, I swear marisa Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 30, 2006 Report Share Posted December 30, 2006 I figured out that losing the hair inside my nose explained why my nose was running so much and the dust irritated me so much more. Lashes will grow, don't worry. Barb Re: Newbie here too! ... Funny that I lost my eye lashes and eye brows on Taxotere, but my head started to spout hair during that treatment. > Barb > Michigan Isn't that weird? I had the same experience - now I have about a half inch of hair on my head - kind of swirly (not quite curly), with patches of white...(at the temples, mostly) also, I lost the hair inside my nose (sheesh!) I'm seeing now faint traces of eyebrows come in, but really want my lashes to grow back.. this has been a bitch, I swear marisa Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 30, 2006 Report Share Posted December 30, 2006 > > I figured out that losing the hair inside my nose explained why my nose was running so much and the dust irritated me so much more. Lashes will grow, don't worry. > Barb I know - just complaining no, whining, actually peace marisa Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 30, 2006 Report Share Posted December 30, 2006 I didn't take Taxol/Taxotere, just AC then Herceptin. The eyebrows/eyelashes are just the last thing to go from the AC. I had been warned about this so I was prepared. In fact they can fall out several times over the course of a couple of months, but grow back quickly. - Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 30, 2006 Report Share Posted December 30, 2006 > no, whining, actually > I saw a button once that said Whining is Anger Coming Through a Very Tiny Hole How true!! Lucinda Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 30, 2006 Report Share Posted December 30, 2006 My eyelashes and eybrows did not come back. I lost them in 2001. Peggy > > Hi everyone! > I just joined today and wanted to introduce myself. My name is Val, and > my breast cancer was found in Nov 2006. I had my regular mammo and they > found calcifications that they biopsied a week later. I had a 5.5 mm > tumor, infiltrating ductal, estrgen and progestron negative, HER2/neu > amplified. Lymph nodes were clear. They tell me becasue of the HER2 and > the fact that there have been close family members who have had breast > cancer (including and uncle) that the chemo and Herceptin are > recommended. We, (DH and I)decided to go with it. He wants to keep me > awhile longer if he can :-) I have been to the hospital twice this week > for PET/CT scan and MUGA scans, I get a port put in the 3rd and chemo > starts the 10th. I have been told I WILL lose my hair. I never thiught > this would bother me but I am finding that yeah..maybe I DO want a wig! > My hair stylist/friend said she would help me however she can. We are > going to try and make it as fun as we can, new hair color, but similar > style, funky hats, etc. I am just trying to figure out best time to get > it and how long I may need it?? I know everyone is different. I'll read > some more posts and see what advice I can gather...I basically wanted > to say hello!! > Val > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 30, 2006 Report Share Posted December 30, 2006 Hi Barb. same thing happned to me with the runny nose so now i know whats causing it. I lost most of my eyebrows but so far the lashes are still there - lol. the hair also went but that's what wigs, at least for me, are for. And of course the eyes start watering also. I wish all of you a good New Year and WE WILL ALL GET THROUGH THIS! Ellen --------- Re: Newbie here too! .... Funny that I lost my eye lashes and eye brows on Taxotere, but my head started to spout hair during that treatment. > Barb > Michigan Isn't that weird? I had the same experience - now I have about a half inch of hair on my head - kind of swirly (not quite curly), with patches of white...(at the temples, mostly) also, I lost the hair inside my nose (sheesh!) I'm seeing now faint traces of eyebrows come in, but really want my lashes to grow back.. this has been a bitch, I swear marisa Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted December 31, 2006 Report Share Posted December 31, 2006 Val: I have a niece named Val (). I actually call her Valerenee. She is sweet and a great support for me at this time in my life. What a shock this all must be to you and so much to think about at a time like this! I hope that the support that you receive here will be helpful to you. Welcome to this great and wonderful sisterhood! We are here for you. Jan K Valma Valmr2@...> wrote: Hi everyone! I just joined today and wanted to introduce myself. My name is Val, and my breast cancer was found in Nov 2006. I had my regular mammo and they found calcifications that they biopsied a week later. I had a 5.5 mm tumor, infiltrating ductal, estrgen and progestron negative, HER2/neu amplified. Lymph nodes were clear. They tell me becasue of the HER2 and the fact that there have been close family members who have had breast cancer (including and uncle) that the chemo and Herceptin are recommended. We, (DH and I)decided to go with it. He wants to keep me awhile longer if he can :-) I have been to the hospital twice this week for PET/CT scan and MUGA scans, I get a port put in the 3rd and chemo starts the 10th. I have been told I WILL lose my hair. I never thiught this would bother me but I am finding that yeah..maybe I DO want a wig! My hair stylist/friend said she would help me however she can. We are going to try and make it as fun as we can, new hair color, but similar style, funky hats, etc. I am just trying to figure out best time to get it and how long I may need it?? I know everyone is different. I'll read some more posts and see what advice I can gather...I basically wanted to say hello!! Val Jan Koelsch __________________________________________________ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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