Warren - It really sounds like you are taking care of things and moving towards a plan. It is hard to tell people because often, even though they are very well meaning and do care about you, they don't know what to say, how to react or how to help. If you happen to think of ways you would like help, by all means, make a list so if they say "how can I help?" then tell them! My son hesitated to do this at first but he found that after he did, his friends were grateful for the opportunity to do something for him! About your question re removing the tumor, or if it could present problems during RT, I'm sure others here will weigh in on this. My son's Maxillofacial surgeon was known as an "aggressive" surgeon and the thinking was that RT would provide less chance of a recurrence in his case. Everyone is different with different circumstances, so be sure and ask your doctors whatever questions you have and mention any concerns you may have. Hope things go very well today with the RO appointment.