I thought I would wait until next week to start a discussion forum for the next steps in my treatment. Today I saw the ENT surgeon on the premise of a preliminary consultation to discuss rebuilding, reconstruction, etc. Next week, I go for my first post-radiation ctsan, then a visit with chemo/oncology, then a visit with plastic surgery. But today, it was like getting hit with a tire iron. This guy basically told me that there won't be reconstruction; there is no need. I should be grateful that I can talk, swallow, eat mushy food, breathe, etc. When I told him that he was the first doctor to tell me this, he said he's always the bad guy (meaning "they" leave the bad news to him).
I was diagnosed back in late August 2009 with squamous cell in the floor of the mouth. Had a peg and port inserted in September, had my lower teeth removed that same week, and a few weeks later started radiation, finishing December21,2009. I was told I was free of cancer and to go home and get strong for the next phase, which would be surgery. I was also told that the radiation continues to have an effect for three months after treatment so I could expect some changes. I did experience changes; subtle but nevertheless, noteworthy. Now, this guy is telling me that my waiting and anticipation has been for naught! I can't accept that this is it! I know I'm lucky to have survived but that doesn't mean I need to accept a lesser way of living if there's something that can be done. Tomorrow, I'll call my nurse coordinator to try to make some sense of this bombshell he just dropped on me but I'd sure appreciate some suggestions or comfort. Tell me he's lying!