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All TopicsForum: HER2/neu Positive Breast Cancer → Topic: Unable to afford Tykerb & Xeloda

Topic: Unable to afford Tykerb & Xeloda

Forum: HER2/neu Positive Breast Cancer

Posted on: Feb 3, 2009 08:59 AM

KimFernandez wrote:

I am an insured, financially independent breast cancer survivor, stage 4, mets to the liver and lungs, HER2 positive. I've exhausted all other drug treatments. My doctor wants me to go on Tykerb & Xeloda. Unfortunately, my insurance won't cover Brand name drugs or Specialty Pharmacy drugs. When I contacted GlaxoklineSmith and Rosche for financial assistance, they told me I don't qualify for assistance because I make too much money. The drugs cost almost $6000 per month. I make only $1000 more per month than that. All my savings is wrapped up in real estate and I can't even sell a house right now to pay for these drugs. How can ANYONE afford these drugs if not covered by insurance?! If anyone has been on this treatment and the drugs have stopped working for them and you have an unused supply, I would appreciate hearing from you. Please don't throw these expensive drugs away. There are people out there who can use them! Thank you for your consideration in this matter. Kim

Dx 3/12/2004, IDC, 3cm, Stage IV, Grade 3, 9/20 nodes, ER+, HER2+
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Feb 3, 2009 09:39 AM mmm5 wrote:

Please go to appeals department of your ins. company with a letter from your Onc and 2nd opinion too. I actually had to do that for Arimidex if you can believe that! While you are on your appeal, definitely involve media and rep from Susan G. Kommen's office.


Dx 4/4/2008, IDC, 1cm, Stage I, Grade 3, 0/4 nodes, ER+/PR+, HER2+
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Feb 3, 2009 09:45 AM abinneb wrote:

Maybe contact your Insurance Commissoner for your state?  Or your state Representative?

bilat mast-L prophy 6/24/08 Exch 9/29/08
Dx 5/12/2008, DCIS, , Stage 0, Grade 3, 0/3 nodes, ER+/PR+
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Feb 3, 2009 03:07 PM cathy50 wrote:

Call this number they can help you ! They will help pay for it.

Cancer care- 1-866-552-6729 


Dx 6/19/2007, IDC, 5cm, Stage IV, Grade 3, 6/7 nodes, ER+, HER2+