Hi Cheryl, I'm technically not from Toronto either (I live near Brantford), but was treated at Princess Margaret. I hear you about making gentler choices in terms of food, I can't really do anything acidic, or the least bit spicy, and vinegars are completely out for me now. I can eat tomatoes or apples if they are cooked.
Although I don't know exactly how deep the cancer lesions were exactly, I was told that the cancer was very superficial. I believe that is the reason they did not think surgery would be needed. They did take a rather large biopsy of the tongue lesion but I still have the bulk of the tongue.
The radiation was VERY difficult for me, although I managed to keep my weight up during radiation thus avoiding the dreaded "feeding tube". I did spend a great deal of my spare time throwing up....thankfully, I have an incredible husband who was pretty much by my side all the way through it, and will continue to be no matter what happens.
I am very happy for you that you seem to be doing well.
Thank You for the great advice...It is funny that sometimes you need to hear what you already know from someone else, like it somehow validates it. I am just frustrated because I have not really been able to have my whole mouth feel good at any point in the last three years. That is as it is, I guess. Now, please tell me more of you story. Where did you receive treatment? How much of you tongue did they take and how are you doing with eating now? Did you have a lot of issues with eating and swallowing?
I LOVE hearing about all the successful outcomes here. It keeps me looking forward and hopeful!