I posted my introduction on the introduce yourself board but to just bring everyone up to date. I was diagnosed on Feb 1 with Squamaous cell CA of the oral cavity. Had surgery Feb 9 with tumor removal and partial mandibulectomy and 14 nodes removed from left side of neck of which 3 were positive.

My name is Morris, I'm 43 and will start 6 weeks of radiation tomorrow. I also met with my medical oncologist and in conjuction with the radiation will do a 6 week course of chemo. After the 6 weeks I'll have a couple of weeks break then will do 4 rounds of systemic chemo to get any cells that made there way to other parts of the body. A chest CT will also be done to ensure there is no mets.

My intention is to do whatever is necessary for the best chance at survival. I will endure all the side affects and with the help of God will get through this. It's nice to know that this site exists and that not only myself but others can express their fears, anxieties and get in turn find support.

That's about all for now, God bless to all who are undergoing treatment and may your recovery be speedy.

Morris

Good Luck on your treatment! My husband was at your stage 1 1/2 years ago. It seems like a long time ago now - time really flies now that he is back to being healthy and happy. I encouraged my husband to think of pac man gobbling up the cancer cells when he was getting his treatments but he preferred to hum Frank Sinatra tunes. Take it one day at time and get through these treatments.

Debbie M, husband had SCC of Tonsil, T4

Morris, sorry to hear of your problems, but glad you found us. The radiation treatments you are soon to start are very difficult, but bearable. Your faith will help you through it as mine helped me. When I was in the rad room, I spent a lot of time in prayer, asking for support. That helped me get through it a lot. Your church family and friends praying for your endurance and to guide the medical team helps a lot as well.

What stage was your cancer and where was it located? Are you at a major cancer center? If not, I would suggest you find one in your area. Please keep us posted as to your treatment and will keep you in my prayers.

To all that have replied. I'm at the University of Florida Cancer Center. I had a tumor in the mucosa of my cheek that progressed to the retro molar on the left. Also 3 lymph nodes were affected and a total of 14 removed. I start my chemotherapy tomorrow with cisplatin for 6 weeks along with the radiation. After a short break I will get 4 more rounds of chemo for a systemic effect. I really haven't asked or figured out what stage I'm in so I can't comment on that. I do infact pray to God while I'm on the table to comfort me, and to calm all anxieties and take me to a nicer place. Each day has been a blessing and I've been very happy with all the doctors involved in my care from the oral surgeon, ENT surgeon, radiation and medical oncologist. I've accepted the hard fight and will get through the difficult times that lie ahead.

My best to all currently in treatment I ask God for your speedy recovery.

Morris

Hi Morris; It certainly sounds like you have a wonderful and comprehensive treatment plan in place as well as one to care for your spirit.
Please remember that no stage of discomfort lasts forever. As you will have noticed from the posts in this forum, there are a lot of us who have come through and lived to tell the tale.
Don't be afraid to use your "pain pills" and take this chance to focus on your daily comfort. Life lived in small increments with those little things addressed will make the whole experience more tolerable. Keep writing, and keep asking, there is a lot of help around for you.
Blessings for your journey,
Fran

Morris,

Welcome to the neighborhood. I am sorry you had to find us but glad you have. I am praying for His wisdom and guidance for your medical team to develop the best possible treatment plan for you and I pray for Him to provide you comfort and peace all the days of your life.

Ed