Welcome to OCF! (Thanks Deb!)

Right now its important to stay calm educate yourself so you can be your own advocate and get the best possible care. I suggest reading as much as you can both here and on the main OCF pages. Learn about oral cancer and everything that goes along with it.

You are just beginning on the long road when first diagnosed. Its best to go to a comprehensive cancer center (CCC). They will use a team based approach where all the specialists work together on your individual case and are on the same page. At the very least get a second opinion as surgeons always recommend surgery and radiation docs always say you need rads, etc.

Please take some time to review the info I sent you thru a private message (PM). Its important to easily learn how to navigate the forum and add a signature. Its something we need in order to help you easier.

About the added spots on your tongue, it could be anything besides cancer. Maybe thrush or even an infection. We are not medical professionals, but even medical professionals would never be able to diagnose anyone over the internet. Try to stay busy and think positive. We will help you get thru the upcoming months and prepare you for your battle. Its up to you to make good choices and focus on what is in your control (your intake and attitude). Im a firm believer that a positive attitude helps patients get thru their struggles easier.

What you can start on is paying attention to your intake. Eat all your favorites and try to bulk up a little. Pay attention to calories and how much water you take in. Every single day for at least the next year you will need a minimum of 2500+ calories and 48 oz of water (some will say more). This is not optional! You cant skimp one day and try to make it up the next, that next day never happens and it becomes a habit leading to malnutrition and hospitalization if you dont change your intake. This is the keep to getting thru everything easier and it is up to you and within your control.

Hang in there, you really will be ok and get thru this. We are in your corner smile


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