When I was diagnosed last May, I read about neck dissections, loss of saliva and permanent issues from treatment. I'm a marathon runner, and I didn't know if I would ever be able to run at all again ... I just didn't know, because there's no guidance about that out there. It might seem like a trivial thing when you're looking at the kind of severe treatment we have to do, but it was among my biggest fears. And hopes. Because if I could run marathons again, that would mean I not just survived, but thrived and got my life back.
I'm seven and a half months out of treatment. My saliva remains low and I have a touch of L'Hermite's Syndrome. My jaw hurts a little on the right side at times. But otherwise, I have my sense of taste and my stamina back.
Today I ran a half-marathon. I was a minute per mile slower than I was for a half last April, but that's because I haven't tried to run faster yet. Well, I tried in November, and spent a wiped-out December paying the price.
I've been lucky. Now I get to start training for the Marine Corps Marathon in October. I was signed up last year, and was able to get a deferment because of treatment.
But it would have meant the world to me to hear this 11 months ago: Physically, less than 8 months after treatment, I am barely changed from where I was a year ago.
Stay active, reach out to people, pray and do everything you can to keep your head up and fight.

Randy congrats on doing so well with your recovery. I love reading success stories like yours. You will still see improvements for many more months. Best wishes with your upcoming marathon!!!

What wonderful news to read, Randy. It gives us all hope, and that is what counts. Congratulations, and do great running marathons.
julieann

Well done. As you said, it would have meant the world for you to hear this when you were going thru treatment, so I hope someone at that stage now reads your post and can see that recovery is ahead! Great job on your marathon.

Donna

This is what I love to hear...awesome on the half marathon...

Randy: You are an inspiration!!! Congrats on your amazing progress. I am one month into recovery - ended treatment on 3/31 - and your story gives me hope. Thanks for sharing. You made my day. And you're right about reaching out to people and praying. Bless you. I send you lots of healing thoughts. -Michelle

I watched the folks finish the Boston marathon yesterday and I think you're all crazy. Congratulations on your negative tests.

Michelle, did they just give you a PEG automatically? Were you able to continue going to the gym?