Scottp,
I know what you mean about hitting you out of the clear blue. My Dad diagnosis did the same to me. I still find myself even now after all the surgery, chemo and radition are over being shocked that my Dad has cancer. Also I think this particular cancer is so unknown to the general population and the unknown is scary. I sure hadn't ever heard anything about it. You will be amazed when the tough times really get tough. You will find yourself finding strength that you didn't think you had.
Take care
Kim

Caregiver to Father:Stage III unknown primary; modified left side neck dissection 2/2006; 8 wk trmts of Erbitux 3/2006 with-37 radition treatments; 11.2010; biopsy of base of tongue results questionable. 9.2013 tumor on left side of tongue; squamous cell cancer. 10.2.2013 Hemiglossectomy(1/2 tongue removed) with reconstruct tongue using left thigh tissue;surgery included IORT.
25 additional IMRT radiation trtmts & 5 wks/chemo. Carbo & Taxol combo.NPO;100% PEG depend;aspiration pneumonia 3/2014