We don't normally see patients as you describe survive 1 year much less 1 to 2 and as Brian pointed out it goes down hill quickly and death is welcomed when it finally comes. There are tons of patients still living and glad they are that had the same surgery your Mom is facing. A decision can not be put off because this cancer will not wait and very soon she will cross the point of no decision available.

David

Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.