Herceptin side effects

Hi,

I've been on Herceptin and Anastrozole for 4yrs in that time I've experienced a variety of symptoms - overall fatigue, mouth ulcers, conjunctivitis, general aches and peripheral neuropathy, ie, very tender feet and on some days its excruciating just trying to stand. It took my oncologist about 18mths to really 'hear' just how bad my feet can be. I've tried a few prescriptive drugs but the side effects were severe and so now I rely on Voltaren for the days that I work.

I 'push through' the fatigue but the effort takes its toll and I've become a bit of a recluse. If I get an invitation I accept knowing that I feel better although the fatigue doesn't go away.

Part time work is important. I made the decision to tell only one person about my health as I didn't want it to be how I was identified - it just feels more normal if someone asks if you had a late night because you look a bit tired. I might respond with, 'No, took me a while to get to sleep.' I go for normal as much as possible.

To be honest I sometimes long for a feeling of vitality. I recall waking up excited about the day and what I had planned to do. It seems like a far memory. There have been some 'good' days and I cherish them.

I appreciate the BCNA posts and its a way of restoring my resolve to live each day and find  something to enjoy.

Beryl