Solitaire,
Please don't blame yourself for this. I nevet smoked in my life, was only a social drinker, and was negative for HPV. I was diagnosed with stage IV tongue cancer three years ago, and after surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, I am still here! You didn't say if you have had a biopsy. Remember, it isn't cancer until a biopsy tells you that it is. If it is cancer, please don't ignore it. It won't just go away. Good luck in your new journey. You will meet a fantastic group of people here, and we will be with you every step of the way.