This tread has turned into a very interesting discussion about statistics and numbers. I would like to try to redirect it back to Chuck's situation and head off a total hijack!

[quote=crolsen(Chuck)]Hi everyone!

I'm a brand new member here. I just had surgery to remove a squamous cell carcinoma from the floor of my mouth on July 21. The surgery was successful, The tumor was clean around the edges, and the lymph nodes were also spotless. Now, I'm trying to put my life back together.

I am married to a wonderful wife (13 years) and have three beautiful daughters (10, 7, 2). I am a musician. I play trumpet in a rock n roll band. I've also recently begun training to be a competitive powerlifter. All of this at the ripe old age of 47.

The decision for radiation therapy is entirely up to me. I'm kind of caught between the benefit of a few extra percentage points vs. the possible side effects and what that could do to my livlihood. My wife [Amy] found this website. I'm glad she did.

...The problem is that my radiology oncology doctor WOULD NOT recommend one way or another. [/quote]

Chuck,

I think you see by the responses you have received, many here would recommend that you get another opinion at a CCC. You mentioned that you have been seen at the Mayo Clinic. One more professional opinion might really help with your decision.

To receive good advice from OCF members, some more information is needed from you for us to understand what your particular situation is. Needed information already mentioned by members in this thread: Stage? Tumor size? Grade?
You have already told us: Clear margins from surgery, Clean lymph nodes (did you have a neck dissection?)
Perhaps if you could go to your profile and compose a signature with this information, that would help.

Each one of us is different, and to best help you, you need to provide more information about you SCC and its treatment so far. The folks here on the forums are extremely knowledgeable and are so willing to help!

I wish you and Amy the best, and hope you can come to a decision you are comfortable with. Please keep in touch and let us know what you decide.

Peace,
Catherine