Hi ! Sorry to hear about your diagnosis - but this is a great place for support and information. I am likely in the same stage of treatment as you are - though I may be a week or two behind you in surgery - they put me in for it yesterday but I don't have my dates yet! My tumor is on the left side of my tongue and a stage II with no metastasies to my nodes or glands ( as far as they can tell on the scans ) my discussion with the doctors yesterday was pretty much what I expected - so there were no real surprises - I did clarify a few things but have to go back to see my surgeon next week as he was called away on a family emergency and I only got to see his fellow. My best advice is educate yourself. Know exactly what you are having done, learn the lingo, and ask questions - have someone with you as a second set of ears and also, as they may be able to come up with questions you may not think of. Knowledge is power - demystifying your disease and treatment prepares you mentally for what you are going to face and for me at least, that makes it easier. Also expect and prepared for the unexpected that way if it doesn't happen it's a plus - but if it does - you're prepared. My dr. Said likely I would be in 10-14 days, and that I might have a trach put in depending on how my airway does. - radiation will be determined after the pathology comes back. This is all pretty much what I had read. I know the first few days will be hard - but being a veg is okay - watching tv or reading if you have the energy is good. But I imagine they will want you up and moving as soon as possible as it promotes normalcy, circulation, and ultimately recovery. Not looking forward to the NG tube though - ack! Good luck!