Hi Kelly,

I am new here in this forum - but like you, I also have a loved one with stage III squamous cell carcinoma at the base of the tongue which went to the lymph nodes of the neck. My husband is the one afflicted with this, and I know firsthand how difficult it is to see someone go throught the rigorous treatments that are given. My husband was diagnosed in August and since mid September, has gone through 2 weeks of Chemo and continued out-patient radiation therapy. He just stopped the therapy a week ago - but the side effects are lingering. There's constant mouth sores, a lot of phlegm, and pain in the tongue and throat. Eating is difficult and is on pretty much a "liquid diet" - but even that is difficult for him. My husband is a pretty big guy - he started off at 360 lbs. but is now down to 290. I know that's still a significant amount of weight, but a great deal of weight was lost already. I too am wondering how long these side effects will last, and although this is a new experience for me - I wish to offer you my support and encouragement to both your dad and you. Tell him to be strong and not to give up!! Things have got to get better - so keep the faith and all the best to you and your loved ones.