Vanessa,

I've had the same surgery that your Mom has been through and it does take time to heal. I'm now 2 years out of surgery and doing good. Life has changed, and there are challenges that weren't there before...but nothing I consider to be more then minor inconveniences really.

The surgery is extreme...but not uncommon on these boards. Recovery from it can seem like a long road...I just look at it as I'm not only lucky to be alive, but that medicine has gotten to a point where they could do this surgery so I could live AND have quality of life.

Here is a video of a Carolyn Coogan, who had the same surgery to see how she is now. It helps to see there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zNW6aY0Xims

Young Frack, SCC T4N2M0, Cisplatin,35+ rads,ND, RT Mandiblectomy w fibular free flap, facial paralysis, "He who has a "why" to live can bear with almost any "how"." -Nietzche "WARNING" PG-13 due to Sarcasm & WAY too much attitude, interact at your own risk.