I had my first rad today, only 39 more to go. It took about 45 minutes, but I was assured this would not be the case after the first week. My neck was killing me from laying in that strange position for so long and I already have somewhat of a sore throat.
Today I made the hardest walk of my life when I walked to the Rad room. I feel so good, I can't believe that I need to put my body through the next 8 weeks. Oh well, one day at a time and I believe I will get through. Along with the help of God of course.

Bill C

Hi wfc,

The good news is that i don't think the sore throat is from the radiation yet. I wonder if it could be from laying in a strange position w/out any fluids for too long. My husband felt the same way you did...he was healthy, eating well, energetic and exercising...with absolutely no pain of indication (other than lymph nodes) that he had cancer.

It was hard to see them take a healthy man down...but, he got through it and he's in great shape now.

The next couple of weeks shouldn't be too bad. Eat as much as you can (nothings off limits to an oral cancer patient)!

I don't know many people who only did RT. I heard that the chemo made the RT side effects worse, so maybe your experience won't be so bad. I'll keep my fingers crossed for you!

THe chemo was what bothered me. The rads were just fine and no problem except for the normal little things it does. My thoat someday will quit the hurting thing and so will everything else. Like they say,.It all takes time no matter what it is.

2nd treatment completed today and first injections of Ethyol. I feel good today. Thanks to everyone for all the info and support!

Bill C

Bill C - you can do this. I did everything I wanted during Rads up to the last few weeks. Just take it a day at a time. It will be over before you know it. I just got back from a checkup with my Rad Dr. - still everything great. I feel like a million bucks, you will too after you beat this.

Bill