Hello there. I just had a biopsy done on Monday and was told it was oral cancer yesterday. I don't know anything else yet. Thus, I haven't told anyone. I'm 26 years old. I suppose this is the shock stage.
But,
that's not really an introduction.
My name is Amanda. I live in Massachusetts. I'm originally from Louisiana, where all of my family is. I love travel, photography, coffee and anything that allows me to be outdoors. I'm still working on my undergrad degree in archaeology. I love languages and music, poetry and reading.
I'm in love with an incredible man. We live together.
His birthday is Sunday and well, I didn't want to ruin it so I'm holding off on telling him.
That makes me feel selfish.

This is going to be psychologically and emotionally exhausting, this whole cancer thing.
It doesn't seem real. Not that I want it to? I'm just... numb. The doctor called yesterday right after work. He said, "Well, I wish I had better news for you" and it felt like all of the air left my body. I just said, "oh".
I have an appointment Monday with an ear, nose and throat specialist. I have no idea what to expect. I'm guessing tests to get a full diagnosis? Then probably building a treatment plan?

I'm supposed to start school again on Tuesday.

So, that's where I'm at. I don't have many (any) close friends here in the north so I thought it would be best to reach out starting now. I know myself. I want to believe I can do anything on my own but this, this I know I can't.
Anyhow. Feel free to message me. I'd love to get to know you and hear your story.

Welcome to OCF, Amanda! You are the same age as my son. Im so glad you have found us when first diagnosed. We will help you with info and support thru your upcoming treatment plan and recovery.

Im glad to hear you have someone close to you that is able to be with you. This can be incredibly difficult for not only the patient but also on those who help care for them.

Here is a link that is packed with info about oral cancer. Its a good idea to read up and learn about what you have so you can be a strong advocate for yourself.

OCF main pages info

Check in often to read and post your concerns and questions. We are in your corner Best wishes with everything!!!

Amanda, I'm sorry to read this. I know all to well that awful feeling when you are told this news.
Please get yourself to a Comprehensive Cancer Centre. These big centerrs have a tumour board and do a team approach to treatment. Research shows that they get better outcomes for their patients.
Please also tell your Parents. If you were my 26 year old I would want to know and I would do all I could to help and support you through this. You will most likely need both physical and emotional support to get through this.
I am not in the USA, but someone here will tell you which are the CCC's. At least get a second opinion before starting any treatment
Thinking of you,
Tammy.

Welcome, Amanda!

Not much more to add other than what was already said, but your ENT will do a complete head and neck exam, including with fiber optics, order a CT or MRI, and others, in order to make a clinical diagnosis and staging of the cancer, which will help determine the course of treatment, and be presented to a tumor board, if at what some are deemed a cancer center or comprehensive cancer cancer, which include a team of multidisciplinary Doctors and clinical staff.

Everything will seem come fast and furious at times, then it can be hurry-up and wait depending where you are. Massachusetts have great hospitals, and have seen them listed in cancer center listings such as the NCCN, NCI, and top rated by U.S. News Reports Best Hospitals. Of course, depending on insurances, other matters, you're not just limited there, and some do travel throughout the country, more specifically to MD Anderson or NYC, staying at ACS Hope Lodges or other accommodations that hospitals may be set aside for patients.

I came across something in general that was meant for caregivers, but added some things that have helped me or think it would have helped me in the process at certain stages from diagnoses to treatment.

1. Plan ahead
2. Get a 2nd opinion
3. Learn about available resources
4. Educate yourself about this disease
5. Take one day at a time
6. Develop contingency plans
7. Accept Help
8. Do some type of light exercise
9. Get enough sleep and rest
10. Make time for leisure
11. Share your feelings with others

I hope this helps, and good luck.

Hello Amanda - Welcome to the forum. You have already received a lot of valuable suggestions to get busy with; so I won't address them.

What I will tell you is of course you will experience some discomfort over the next few months. It might be what you consider a lot or it might not be so bad. Mine wasn't bad at all. It's not bad for everyone. I live alone and didn't have a caregiver, but I did have a lot of friends willing to help and I had this wonderful OCF support group to communicate with literally on a daily basis. These guys are who got me through the disease. They (and I) will do the same for you.

So, get busy studying and learning about your disease and treatment. The more you know the better patient advocate you will be for yourself and the better results you will get from your treatment. Don't be afraid to ask the doctor (and the nurses) as many questions as you want and keep asking until you are satisfied you understand the answer. Be the squeaky wheel if you need too.

Take care, try not to worry, we'll be watching out for you.

Tony

Thank you so much for your encouragement and responses! This has been a whirlwind of a week or so.
Good news-I should only need surgery! I have a PET scan tomorrow morning but two different doctors believe it's early and small enough that I won't need radiation. I feel incredibly fortunate for this.

The most difficult thing has been seeing how this has affected those I love.

Hello, Amanda I too am new to this site. I am sorry for what you are going through. Stay strong and remember two things: you are a strong dynamic person and there are loads of people here and everywhere who can offer you support, advice and love. Best of luck. I am rooting for you!