Hi All, just making my first posting here, thankful for info and support. My husband was just diagnosed with cancer in right retromolar trigone, and we're looking at what seems to be early stage. He is hard of hearing and seems to be processing all this slowly, but showing up for appointments and willing to let me accompany him. Lesion/ulcer noticed in fall of 2015, periodontist saw him 6 months later and said go to oral surgeon. Time frame worries me. Next up is an oncology team visit and a CT scan, next week. I'm advocating for him but seeking balance between helping and wanting to give him a stern reality check. Love my man and we are in this together for the long haul!
CarolGreen Jeans

Welcome to OCF, Carol! You have found the very best source for info and support. We will help you both get thru the treatments and recovery phases.

My suggestion would be to go to a major comprehensive cancer center (CCC) for the very least a second opinion. Maybe that would help to ease your mind. Here is a link that will give you a list of cancer centers. Find the very best medical care you can and go with it.

For right now your husband should focus on eating all their favorite foods. His sense of taste and ability to swallow may make eating difficult for a while so eat now. Dont worry about gaining weight, eat everything and have dessert too. Most patients undergo substantial weight loss during their treatments so bulking up is a good plan.

You will have many appointments prior to any treatments. If having radiation treatments, the following is very important. Make sure to have a full blood workup done including testosterone and thyroid levels. Get a thorough dental check up and take care of any questionable teeth, get flouride trays made.

Anyone you talk to about your husbands condition who offers their assistance, tell them when the time comes you will let them know how they can help. Make sure you make a list of everyone with their contact info. This could come in handy down the road.

I suggest you read posts on the forum and educate yourself about whats to come. Towards the center of the top of the page, look for and click on the tiny flashing envelope thats next to the My Stuff tab. This will take you to your private messages (PM). Take some time to review the link in the PM Ive sent you. It gives lots of tips on how to navigate the forum and instructions on how to add a signature. The signature is a very important step, it helps us to help you so please complete it asap.

As a caregiver you have your hands full. Make sure to take some time to be good to yourself. We are here to support not just your husband but you too. We understand just how hard it is for both of you. Stick with us and we will help you both thru everything.


NCI Cancer Centers