Gina, welcome to OCF! So sorry you are facing a battle with oral cancer. Glad you have found this site to help you get thru it.

The best advice I can give you is to go to a top cancer center. It really can make a huge difference! Here is the list of NCI cancer centers.

http://oralcancerfoundation.org/resources/cancer_centers.htm

Nutrition will be a huge factor in how easily you get thru this. Every single day you will need 2500 calories and 48 oz of water, minimum! I know it sounds like its too much but this is the least you should be taking in. Your age will hopefully help you get thru it easier too.

Get a full blood count including thyroid. See your dentist and get fluoride trays made any teeth pulled which are not in good shape. Get your hearing checked.

Always take someone with you to doctor appointments. Read here and on the main OCF pages and educate yourself. Line up friends and family. Anyone who offers to help write down their name and number and tell them when the time comes you will contact them.

When in doubt ask questions. We are here to lean on for info and support.

Best wishes!

Last edited by ChristineB; 01-03-2013 04:34 AM.

Christine
SCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44
2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07
-65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr
Clear PET 1/08
4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I
surg 4/16/08 clr marg
215 HBO dives
3/09 teeth out, trismus
7/2/09 recur, Stg IV
8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy
3wks medicly inducd coma
2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit
PICC line IV antibx 8 mo
10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg
OC 3x in 3 years
very happy to be alive smile