Hi Karen, We seem to have a lot in common. My husband (John) also has squamous cell carcinoma at the base of the tongue (stage 3). He was just diagnosed with this in mid August of 2002. I had my suspicions that this was cancer - because of all the research I did on the web all seemed to point to the dreaded "c" word. In a way, I am glad I did this research because it did help prepare me when I got the news, although shock still managed to set in. I can't even count how many times I cried when I was alone, and how hard it was (and sometimes still is) to keep up a "happy" appearance at work and around family, etc. My husband has not had any surgery yet, although this was the plotted course of action. I'm so scared of this surgery (Neck Dissection). It just sounds so horrendous - and I have no idea what to expect. I'm still traumatized by all the side effects of the radiation he had! I wish I could offer people more helpful information/advice - but my hubby and I are "newbies" that are just in the beginning stages of this battle. But know I am here - all of us - if you need a "shoulder" to cry on or if you have any questions, or just need an outlet - as we all do many times over!