How do others cope with HER2+ breast cancer treatment?

Feeling overwhelmed when facing a HER2-positive breast cancer treatment plan is a natural reaction, and reaching out to the HER2+ community is a caring step toward finding support. Members often share coping ideas like taking each phase one at a time, leaning on loved ones, and asking the care team about emotional support resources, so more stories and tips may come in from others who have walked a similar path. Sharing what feels hardest right now can also help others offer more focused encouragement.

Hi Nicole. I’m right there with you. IDC, HER2 positive, Estrogen/Progesterone negative. I was diagnosed in June and had first chemotherapy on 7/20, missed a month due to a severe chemo rash, then started back end of September and now on my 4th infusion. I’m on TCHP, every 3 weeks. My oncologist said it’s the Gold Standard of Care right now; includes some severe side effects, but have been able to handle them so far with other medications. The diarrhea and vomiting are pretty standard for this regimen. (I take Zofran and/or Compazine to handle the nausea. Zofran is on schedule for me every 8 hrs. I’ve only had to take the Compazine 3 times, but so far it’s worked pretty good. A friend told me to take the zofran like that, she had cancer also, and that has saved me. Imodium for diarrhea just like the box says to take it. After 2 or 3 times it works. If I get too backed up I take Docusate Sodium Rx and after 2-3 it works.) It’s a balancing act. Also had a chemo rash (Rx Doxycycline helps with that), mouth sores (don’t use regular toothpaste, it hurts, I use sensodyne with the least flavor) and the 3rd infusion developed foot and hand syndrome (was able to handle it with lots of Aquaphor, soft socks and gloves on and Advil, which helped the inflammation.) On this 4th treatment I’ve noticed being extremely tired. Lots more sleeping and just having to take it easy. Learning I have to take care of myself and listen to my body. The apprehension is completely understandable. No one can go through this and not be feeling that. My concern now is if my cancer does have a Complete Pathological Response, which I’m praying for, then why do I still need surgery? I know what the surgeon and oncologist say, it’s the current standard of care. Having trouble wrapping my head around it still. Gonna have to make some decisions soon. On infusion days I make sure I have a few snacks, my headphones, and a big glass of water. Wear something lose at the neckline so it’s easy for the nurse to get to my port. I also wear warm, comfortable clothes because it’s always cold in the infusion room. Mine takes about 5 hrs from the time I get to office for labs, visit with my doctor and then the infusion. Although I didn’t get the cold cap for my hair, I did recently purchase the cold therapy socks and mittens to try to prevent neuropathy. After what I experienced with the foot and hand syndrome, I’m doing all I can to prevent anymore damage to my extremities. Purchased them on Amazon. I know this response is long, just hope it helps some. This is a daunting process for us all. My biggest comfort has been knowing that God does not give us a spirit of fear, and remembering when I get too anxious to just pray. In fact, on infusion day i usually put my headphones on after the infusion is underway, and just listen to my Bible. It lulls me to sleep and helps the process go faster for me. Good luck, and God bless you as you go through this. Deborah

I have neg estrogen HERS positive. I have one more chemo to go. I had diarrhea either the second or third day after infusions. I had targeted infusions every 3 weeks and that will continue for 1 year. Symptoms are cumulative and I’m always tired. I do wear the cold feet and hands mittens for every Chemo infusions.

I was recently diagnosed as well on Oct 26. Will start TCHP on November 16. I’m very scared but I’m sure that’s normal. I am HER2 positive ER/PR negative. It was shocking to hear the oncologist say I would be gone in 12 to 18 months if I do nothing. But I’d rather him be blunt so we can move forward. Will see breast surgeon Nov 3, probably schedule a port to be surgically placed. Meeting with nurse Nov 10 to discuss all the medications and treatment plan. PET scheduled Nov 11. Hoping it hasn’t spread. Supposedly just in the left breast for now 3.5 cm stage 2A. I’ve been reading to stay hydrated with water and pedialyte (electrolytes) during treatment, small meals and foods like bananas, rice, toast and applesauce to help settle stomach. Get a soft toothbrush and rinse with mixture of salt and baking soda everyday for mouth sores. I’ll probably buy cold mitts and socks to help neuropathy pain but I’ll be asking the nurse all these questions. I wish everyone here the best of luck and sending prayers for healing and help with pain and discomfort.