I'm hoping this surgery isn't as bad as the last one. Since they aren't going to be cutting on the tongue and stuff, just the neck maybe it won't be so bad. Doc seems to agree.

Had a discussion with him regarding my lack of mobility of my left arm, shoulder, and asked if there's any way to avoid the same thing on the right side after surgery. Still need help putting on jackets and such, can't raise my left arm out to my side past say the 8 o'clock position. He said they'll try not to cut the trapezious (sp?) nerve this time.

We'll see.

As far as keeping a positive attitude, am trying. I dont' think it does any good to get all bummed out about all this, won't change anything at all. At least this time I know what to expect.


SCC Tongue, stage IV diagnosed Sept, 2002, 1st radical neck dissection left side in Sept, followed by RAD/Chemo. Discovered spread to right side nodes March 2003, second radical neck dissection April, followed by more RAD/Chemo.