Hi all,
I'm introducing myself, as I think I'll be visiting frequently the next few months. My dad was diagnosed with stage IV squamous cell carcinoma right after Christmas. We've been through the neck dissection and will begin tx in a few weeks. I went searching for a forum of people that understand this emotional roller coaster through hell, and here you are! I am encouraged to see some positive stories, others as perturbed by statistics as I've been, and a whole group of people who know how I feel! Thanks to all who are offering their advice. You're angels to those of us just starting this journey!

Cheryl

Cheryl, I am sure you will find the answers you seek as treatment continues. We are a diverse group and there is usually someone with first-hand experience with just about anything. I, too, was stage IV with lymph node involvement, had the surgery, then rad and chemo, and am well and happy and have been back to real life for more than two years. It has been three years since my diagnosis. Except for this forum, I have no daily thoughts about cancer because I am so completely recovered. This can happen for your dad too, so do not panic, and do not give up hope. Knowledge truly is power, and you have come to a very good place to become educated. Welcome.

Welcome Cheryl
Here you will find people who have have been where you are . There is a long road ahead for your family, please do not hesitate to ask any question or just vent with us . We have been there and done that, there is a light at the end of this long tunnel for you and we just want to help you through it .
Take Care
Marica

Cheryl, welcome to the site. Sorry you had to find us. Your dad is blessed to have a daughter to help him through this. Where is your dad's cancer? tonsils? tongue? throat? elsewhere? Is he being treated at a major comprehensive cancer center? How large was his tumor? Did it mestasize to the lymph nodes? After neck dissection, was there evidence of cancer after biopsy? All of the answers will help us help you and your dad. Meanwhile, welcome to the site, we all are here for you.

Cheryl,
sorry that you had to find us, but we are a hardy bunch, don't ever think that you will throw us with what ever is going down, we are all travelling this rocky road, and we need to meet people around the corner. SO what ever you need help with, START HERE...
Sunshine... love and hugs
Helen

Hi all,
Thank you for offering so much support already. After my family came to terms with having the "c" word invade our lives, we've begun to accept and try to figure out the best way to get through this. I have read some wonderfully encouraging stories, and although I know there is the possibilty that all will not go smoothly, I am trying to stay positive and help my dad as much as possible.

Joanna-- your posts have made me see such possibilities for my dad's recovery. Thank you for your positivity.

Kirk-- my dad's primary is the rt. tonsil and it had met. to the lymph nodes. The tumor was 7cm. We haven't received any news from biopsies post neck dissection, but the Dr. left a small portion of the tumor (under a muscle) and said he was confident that the tx's would take care of it. We are handling everything through Karmanos Cancer Institue in Detroit, and they have been wonderful so far.

Marica and Helen-- thank you for your support! I am sure I will be needing more as my dad's tx's will start within the next week.

Thanks, again, for being so open and sharing your stories and advice. You truly are an amazing help!