Mine was stage IV tongue cancer as well. I was fortunate in that I didn't have to have a trache or skin grafting. Like you, however, I sometimes find that I resent not having my old life back. I had always had very good health, in fact when I was being questioned about my health history prior to my surgery, and the nurse asked when was the last time I had been hospitalized, I said "Well, my son is thirty years old...". Things will get better, but they really won't be completely the same. Christine's suggestion about getting involved in helping someone else is a good one. I have learned to be grateful for every day that I have, and you will, too! This is a great place to come for advice and support. Welcome to OCF! We are all here for you.