Have biopsy scheduled. Am really scared at chance of survival if diagnosed. Any words of encoragement b/c I'm really lost here.

Airplane, Please try to relax! There are many things besides cancer, and if it is you have every possibility of winning the fight. Remember it is NOT cancer until the pathology report says so. I know these are just words but I have been exactly where you are.

is it true that chances of survival are less than brain cancer

Yes but better than many other forms of cancer. The stats don't tell the whole story either - health habits, etc. If you have been a heavy tobacco and/or alcohol abuser then you probably should worry. There are many here who have survived advanced stage cancer and some with early stage who have died so you just never know. Your odds are a lot better if you are treated at a comprehensive cancer center. It's too soon to worry about odds - you don't have a diagnosis yet. Take a deep breath and ask your doctor for some anti-anxiety meds.

What is a comprehensive cancer center? My apologies for the negativity. You guessed it. Just a little anxious.

Airplane,

At a comprehensive cancer center you typically get the combined skills of a multi-disciplined head and neck cancer team (surgery, radiation, and chemo) to evaluate your case and determine the best course of treatment -- IF you need treatment. (I hope you don't -- you may still find that your biopsy shows something benign.)

On this site, under Other Resources, there is a link to comprehensive cancer centers that have been designated as such by the National Cancer Institute.

Cathy

Airplane,
I don't have to guess anymore. I have been a patient advocate here for over 2 years and know the territory fairly well (I was also a former primary caregiver for my dad who died from cancer and an advanced stage cancer survivor myself).

It's almost impossible not to be negative but the hysteria CAN be controlled.

Cathy forgot to mention NCCN member institutions as well. They are also listed in the resources section.

You're getting ahead of yourself. You don't have a pathology report yet. Take it one day at a time. Stay out of the future - it doesn't belong to us anyway. Don't get too caught up in the horror stories here - it will just feed your anxiety.

Airplane.
Gary gives good advice, one day at a time. When is your biopsy, and where are you having it done?
As you can see we have all been around for a long while and none of us have any intention of becoming a statisic...
Sunshine... love and Hugs
Helen

Thank you for all the kind words. This site is a great place to be. Having biopsy sometime this week. They confirm date Monday morning. My mother is a cancer survivor and I respect everyone on this site. I know it is not easy. It is being done at a hospital in central TX where my uncle is practicing. I don't mean to jump the gun, but it is a little overwhelming.

Hey, Airplane, set it on cruise control and take a very deep breath for now. Amy

Airplane

I was diagnosed stage IV, and May 2006 will be my 5 year mark. So hang in there and take it easy. I also know someone here in my home town that is 12 years out, that the Dr's gave him 6 months so don't ever give up. Keep on keeping on!

Hey Airplane, I had my biopsy done just over two weeks ago. It was done on the same day I went for my first consulation with a specialist. I totally understand your feelings...but for this part accept everything that is thrown at you, take it all in if you can and soon you can make your informed decisions. My first appointment for consulation about surgery and radiation is next Friday 26th August. I am relishing my time before I go. You will be surprised as each day passes it gets a little easier. Do you need anxiety/sleep relief? Doc gave me some meds and said you dont have to take them, just have them for when you need. Hang in there and listen to these guys...thinking of you Airplane. Take care, Karyn