Hey there .. I was where you are almost a year ago, I actually started rads march 18 2011. Had the same surgery except they rebuilt my tongue on the left side. I hear you on the taste we've all been there.my chocolate didn't go away either.. I could taste strawberry a bit too. I lived on ensure for about 3-4 weeks near the end, (week 5/6 and two weeks after...) I would pop a pain pill then rinse with magic mouthwash then when both were working, I'd chug my ensure (I had it down to 13 gulps!) clean my mouth and pass out! this was only for the week following treatment up to that I didn't really need the pain meds (oxy didn't dull the pain just made me sleepy!). I downed about 4-5 ensure a day (extra calorie) and added a protein powder to one of my drinks daily. I got through it without using the peg I had one but wasnt able to keep peg feedings down, so it is doable, you just have to push through it. I lost 20 lbs total. I found a water pik to be great for keeping my mouth clean and getting rid of the ropey saliva. I used it on the lowest setting and mixed Luke warm water with a bit of organic, alcohol free mouthwash.it made me feel fresher. Welcome, and sorry you have to be here but glad you found us. Good luck!