Thanks, chascat. It's interesting to hear that, about the licencing side. And I think I will take Sam's advice and contact the helpline. I'm finding it quite difficult to find any information on the subject that is relevant to my mum's situation. I appreciate your replies xx
Hi Apple-eye
Welcome to the BCC forums, I'm sorry to read of your Mum's diagnosis. As well as the support you are receiving here you might find it helfpul to talk things through with a member of staff on the helpline. Here you can share your thoughts and concerns with someone who will offer you a listening ear as well as emotional aupport and practical information. The number to call is 0808 800 6000 and lines are open weekdays 9 to 5pm and Saturday 10 to 2pm.
Best wishes Sam, BCC Facilitator
Hello everyone,
I was wondering if anyone could offer any advice and information with regards to Herceptin. My mum had a mastectomy three weeks ago and has been told that the cancer was small and has thankfully been totally removed and hasn't spread to her lymph nodes. However, her results came back as HER2 positive and she has been offered a course of Herceptin. She has been told she will have to start chemotherapy alongside it, as she cannot be treated with the Herceptin on its own. My mum is seventy and adamant that she doesn't want to undergo the chemotherapy - the oncologist has told her she must at least start it in order to be given the Herceptin, and that if she becomes too ill they will stop the chemotherapy after a couple of sessions but continue with the Herceptin alone. From my point of view, the chemotherapy is surely not necessary if they are willing to stop it, and it seems as though they just have to tick the chemotherapy box in order for her to qualify for the Herceptin. Has anyone else experienced this? Apologies for being so long-winded! I'm just concerned that my mum will be subjecting herself to a totally unnecessary course of chemotherapy, when she isn't in the best of health anyway, to justify her being given Herceptin.