Hello Cyndie:
Everyone has a different story but all I can say is radiation and chemo is probably the reason I'm still around! About 5 months after surgery something "Just wasn't right." My original surgeon wasn't a big advocate of radiation due to the long term side affects and my age. After partnering with a colleague who braced me for a "real surgery" (Like the first one wasn't enough), my second surgeon wanted his Team to try radiation and chemo as an alternative, saving a second surgery as a final option. I am thankful every day for the outcome! There are great resources here to help you through. Life is full of options and the "What ifs" Elizabeth mentions, but follow your heart after doing your homework. As Sharon stated Radiation is not fun but it's survivable.
Keep the Faith smile
Warm Regards,
Steve

SCC right side BOT/FOM; DX 1-25-06; Neck dissection/25% of tongue removed 2-17-06. Stage 2 Recurrence 7-06: IMRTX35 & 3X Cisplatin ended 10-18-06. Tumor found 03/18/13; Partial Glossectomy 03/28/13 left lateral tongue. Nov. 2014; headaches,lump on left side of throat. Radical Neck Dissection 12-17-14; Tumor into nerves/jugular; Surgery successful, IMRTX30 & 7X Erbotux. Scan 06-03-15; NED! 06-02-16; Mets to left Humerus bone and lesion on lungs-here We go again! Never, Ever Give Up!

**** PASSED AWAY 10/8/16 ****