Lisa,
I'm also a caregiver and reading your posts brings back so many memories. First of all, as scary as this is, you have so much going for both of you. It sounds like your husband is in great shape and he has you to help him through this ordeal. It might be difficult to believe at this point in time, but you will be so much closer and love each more because of this life changing experience.
You're numb and in shock right now and also very fearful of the unknown. This will be a tough fight for both of you. Being a caregiver is so stressful and there is no one who can do it for you. He will do his treatments and you will take care of him. This might sound odd, but at the time of Richard's treatment, I felt honored to be able to help him. As the wedding vows say, "In sickness and in health." Most people are never really tested as we have all been.
Another thing that is important...don't look at the statistics. Right off the bat, Richard's RO told him that the treatment should cure the cancer and so far all our checkups have been clear. We are back to all our normal activities.. work, hiking, etc. Richard is lucky enough to have tolerated the treatment and healed up pretty quickly.
Lisa, please lean on us. We know what you are going through and can answer all your questions. The more you are informed the better questions you can ask the doctors and the more you'll know about what to expect. Keep posting as you go along and we will all help you. YOU ARE NOT ALONE.. Geri


Geri-CG to husband Richard, 62 yrs old. Former smoker, quit 30yrs ago, light drinker. Dx after tests with BOT T1N1M0. Tx to start by end of Dec. Seven wks IMRT with 2x Cisplatin-2x Erbitux. Peg in 12/08- removed 4/21/09. Looking good so far. Clear Pet &MRI 8/2/09