Hi JJ, glad things are moving quickly for you. In my humble opinion, since you were thinking about retiring this year anyway, why not go for it? I was 44 when diagnosed with tongue cancer (it was also in two lymph nodes in my neck), had 26 years service in with Fed Government. I had surgery in May 2002, radiation through end of August, speech therapy, physical therapy to help with neck pain and to open my mouth again, finally decided to put in for early retirment in March 2003. It was a big decision, I enjoyed my job and the people I work with, plus we have two kids to put through college, however, I feel I made the right choice. In the future, I might do some volunteer work or get a part time job close to home. God Bless You and try to take it all one day at a time!!!!
Carol