I am almost 4 months out of radiation, and my life has somewhat returned to normal. I am very fortunate that I was able to keep my job and move back to my old apartment. Eating has gradually gotten easier, and I am extremely thankful for everything in my life.
I had no risk-factors, and was never that heavy of an alcohol drinker. Now that I am (hopefully)on the "other side" of cancer, I have been completely avoiding alcohol, as I know it is a major cancer catalyst. It is upsetting sometimes, because I am only 25 years old and I feel like I can never just cut loose and have fun anymore. I have had a single beer on a couple different occasions, but the entire time I was drinking them all I could think about was that it was not worth it and if the cancer came back I would have myself to blame. Aside from that, I know that if I did go out and drink, I would still have to come home and do my regular routine of brushing, flossing, flouride trays, meds, etc. I know all of this stuff isn't difficult and does not take time, but it is still in the back of my mind as a responsibility. Does anyone else feel like this? Also, does anyone know if it is ok to drink every now and then? I know these concerns may sound silly, I know how lucky I am to have survived this disease, but when I am 25 and the majority of my friends still go out to bars and have fun all the time, sometimes I just feel completely on the outside and like I don't really fit in anymore.


Emily - 24 years old at diagnosis
HPV-, no risk factors
T2N2b Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Left oral tongue, poorly differentiated
Hemiglossectamy, reconstruction, partial neck dissection
30 Radiation treatments, weekly chemo (cisplatin)
1/13/12 last day of treatment
Diagnosed October 2011