Hi everyone!!!!

Ive been in chemo and radiation treatment now for 5 weeks. Its been alot of ups and downs, but Im almost finished.

I was diagnosed w/ Stage 1 oral cancer of the cheek and roof of mouth in June. The end of July had my PEG tube and port placed. Treatemnets started on Aug 6th.

I was given 193 mg Cisplatin for 3 doses every 3rd week and 35 days of radiation. I just had my second Cisplatin which was dropped down to 154 mg. Per my chemo doc, that is my last one, I have done remarkably well and she does not feel its necessary for round 3.

I now rely completely on the PEG tube for eating my liquid diet of formula. I have managed to still swallow water and Yoo-Hoo which will help me when this is over. By continuing to swallow I will regain my eating habits much quicker.

I remember that I didnt want either the PEG or the port, and I am so glad I have both. Thank you to everyone on this board who recommended getting both, it has made this fight so much easier. Also, thru my insurance, I have a visiting nurse who comes once a week to check on my because I have the PEG tube.

Overall, I can say I have had more positive days than bad ones. But when a bad day comes, its usually pretty bad. My nausea hasnt been too hard to handle. I have only thrown up about 3 days total. My main obsticale has been fatigue. Ive been tired mostly everyday, somdays I can only make it from then bed to the couch. Everyday my goal has been to take a shower, which I have done. Somedays its been a struggle for even that much.

My advice to anyone who is starting out, listen to your doctors, nurses, and dieticians. Take any offers for help that are given to you. Do your best to keep a positive attitude, it has helped me tremendously.

Good Luck to all,