Hello all,

I found out March 5 I have a squamous cell carcinoma in my left tonsil. The primary is actually quite small (pea to olive size), but I now have two lymph nodes on the left neck involved. I live in S. Cal. and am seaking treatment at Cedars-Sinai. I am supposed to begin radiation and chemo next week (April 2-3). I have good teeth and excellent health overall so I feel strong and know I can beat this. Mostly I am concerned about the after effects (dry mouth, etc.). Apparently only half of my paratoid gland will be in the radiation field so I amy well retain 50%. I just do not know at this point. My Oncologist states that I will not have to have a neck dissection at the end of all this, but my radiation Oncologist is strongly suggesting a limited dissection. At this point with my life upside down I do not know what to do other than proceed the way I have been and fight the good fight!

I'd like to hear from anyone that wants to talk.
Thanks, M.C.