Updates from Lara: First Chemo Treatment

HER2-positive breast cancer: What is it?

HER2-positive breast cancer is a breast cancer that tests positive for a protein called human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2), which promotes the growth of cancer cells. In about one of every three breast cancers, the cancer cells make an excess of HER2 due to a gene mutation. This gene mutation can occur in many types of cancer — not only breast cancer.

HER2-positive breast cancers tend to be more aggressive than other types of breast cancer. They're also less responsive to hormone treatment. However, new treatments that specifically target HER2 are proving to be very effective:

Trastuzumab (Herceptin). Herceptin, which specifically targets HER2, kills these cancer cells and decreases the risk of recurrence. Herceptin is often used with chemotherapy. But it may also be used alone or in combination with hormone-blocking medications, such as an aromatase inhibitor or tamoxifen. A study published in 2005 found that Herceptin can reduce breast cancer recurrence by as much as 50 percent. Herceptin is usually well tolerated, but it does have some potential side effects, such as congestive heart failure and allergic reaction. This drug is also very expensive.

Lapatinib (Tykerb). Like Herceptin, Tykerb is a HER2-specific drug. Approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2007, Tykerb may be effective for HER2-positive breast cancer that doesn't respond to Herceptin.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

First Chemo Treatment

I felt fine during and after chemo today... I actually went to lunch and thought of a quick restaurant to go to... La Bamba. What was I thinking? Mexican food is NOT the food to eat after chemo even if you are feeling fine. Next time, my dinner will be very, very bland. Ugh! I want the queasiness to go away and am trying to keep everything down as much as possible. I think I may take an anti-nausea pill soon. I was trying to wait until the morning but that no longer sounds like a good plan.

(Note: I'm ok... no worries. I plan on going to work tomorrow since the worst of it usually seems to hit on day 3 for AC treatments. Hopefully, I'll feel great in the morning!)

6 comments:

MichelleJuly 7, 2009 at 7:44 PM
Lara,
I thought about you all day today. I am glad you have one treatment under your belt. How about grilled cheese and soup next time?? (Or maybe just the soup.)
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Michelle B.
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UnknownJuly 7, 2009 at 7:56 PM
Lara, like Michelle B, I thought about you today; thoughts of you started my day.

Be strong. Our prayers are with you. Prayers will help get you through your treatment and recovery.

Love, Ellen B
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LaraJuly 7, 2009 at 11:13 PM
Good advice... I just felt so good and thought the drugs would carry me through today... I guess it couldn't carry me all the way through. But, I'm feeling better now. Thanks to both of you for your prayers. =)
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Laurie NuttJuly 8, 2009 at 6:28 AM
ok I'm just catching up from vacation! Great news about the clinical trial, very happy. Hope that your feeling ok today and perhaps you'll be fine! Let me know when we can see you or if the kids need to come over for a visit! smooches
Laurie
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Anne SmithJuly 8, 2009 at 8:54 AM
I thought about you all day. Sorry you had the nausea - I think your idea to stay in front of it is good. Let me know how and if we can help you and the fam. Love you, A
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SZMAJJuly 10, 2009 at 11:18 PM
Hey Lara...
I think it is wonderful that you and Doug chose each other and that your port was put in on your anniversay and he asked you to marry him again is quite a lovely comment of the joy you guys share.
I am glad that lIza has arrived to cook for you and get a septacular hair cut. When will you post that? love,mom and dad
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