Shaylynn,

It never hurts to be "the squeaky wheel". It's your life and believe me you only want to be treated for this cancer once and correctly. There are many different ways to skin this cat and some go overboard in my opinion so that's why we are encouraging you to get multiple QUALIFIED opinions.

I felt the same way when I was diagnosed. I also had an "ulcer" that would not go away. I dealt with that for about a year then went to an oral surgeon. He did the biopsy and it came back as dysplasia. He sent to a surgial oncologist. I cried all that day. It was in March of 2007.My first surgery was cancer and since then I have had 3 surgeries and I still have some pain. Although the last 3 were not cancer. I agree with what the others are saying. EAT!!!! After any surgery it can be very painful. They say it's one of the worst surgeries to have. I have had four so I'm a pro. Buy Ensure and mac and cheese. And stool softner!!! When you take the pain meds you can't go and that may have been the worst part.

I am getting married this March so I know it's hard to deal with something so wonderful and something to terrible at the same time. I hope you find support here. I just joined myself.

I also think it's important to eat what you like. Even if your taste is not effected, the pain after surgery can be so bad that you just drink Ensure. I like the strawberry!! Brushing your teeth can be bad too. But....it usually lasts about 2 weeks then you can begin eating a bit more normally. That was my experience.