Hi all,

I can see we are going to have to ask if we can have a "sailor" section for us to post in. laugh

Jim, I did have some swelling but not quite what I'd call a waddle. The swelling usually will diminish as the lymph fluid finds new pathways out of the head region. As Joanna has described you can assist in getting this fluid moving by very gently stroking your fingers across the skin of your neck in the direction the fluid logically should flow. Ask your doctor for a referral to a "lymph edema" specialist. Some physical therapists have had training in this field. You may have to ask around because this is a real specialty.

Turtle necks are a fun subject. I was once asked by an aquaintance if I wore them because of my neck scar. It was January and I think I embarrased her by mentioning the -30 temp. not my vanity that causes the turtle necks to come out. :p

Mark, 21 Year survivor, SCC right tonsil, 3 nodes positive, one with extra-capsular spread. I never asked what stage (would have scared me anyway) Right side tonsillectomy, radical neck dissection right side, maximum radiation to both sides, no chemo, no PEG, age 40 when diagnosed.