My mother has been told that she needs surgery to treat her (stage 4) tongue cancer. They would need to remove part of her tongue and a portion of her jaw. She is in her 70's and has a serious heart condition. She thinks that she would not even survive the 12-hour surgery they are talking about. She has decided against the surgery. Can you give my an idea about what to expect and the best way to care for her?

CG to mom (non smoker) during treatment. Dx 7/07 SCC side and base of tongue, Stage 3/4, T4, N1. Refused surgery. Completed tx (41 rads, 8 chemo) 10/07. PET on 1/9/08 showed active cancer. Fought bravely until the end -- 2/12/08.