I was diagnosed with SCC of the lateral tongue last summer and had surgery to remove the nickel-sized lesion in November of 2002. While my ENT oncologist thought they got all of the growth he was not conclusive about the surgical margins available short of needing reconstruction.

I now have a very small reoccurence in the same area. Whether this is new or missed cells I am not sure. Radiation was recommended post-surgery but the predental consultation suggested the removal of all teeth and we decided then to just monitor it often. Here we are again.

IMRT is now encouraged for the new growth and I am of course immersed in the confusion over side effects. My greatest concern is will there be enough saliva remaining to support dentures? I am processing the other information to be only temporary and will eventually return to "normal".

Mentally, I think I am doing well. If this is what my Greater Power (God) needs me to do in order that I may continue to carry out His purpose for me then I am okay to do this for Him. I am HIV+ since 1990 and have learned that with most of these issues that the personal growth and the insight gained through these not-so-nice experiences leave me a much better, more compassionate individual and that is not a bad thing.

I would appreciate any insight as to how to minimize side effects and any other comments that those of you who have gone before me may offer.

With hope,
Russ