I have answered some of your questions especially about location and Perth with a PM wink
As for me, yes it was a torrid time however I am doing really well with only a few minor issues.
Last month I passed and celebrated my 5 year anniversary (I use my main surgery date).
I am hoping that you, your brother and family will celebrate the same milestone and beyond.

History Leukoplakia bx 8/2006 SCC floor mouth T3N0M0- Verrucous Carcinoma.
14 hour 0p SCC-Right ND/excision/marginal mandibulectomy 9/2006, 4 teeth removed, flap from wrist, trach-ng 6 days- no chemo/rad.
6 ops and debulking (flap/tongue join) + bx's 2006-2012.
bx Jan 2012 Hyperkeratosis-Epithelial Dysplasia
24cm GIST tumour removed 8/2013. Indefinite Oral Chemo.

1/31/16 passed away peacefully surrounded by family