Gloria,
This surgery is going to save your life. There's no negotiating it...do it and you'll live, don't and you'll die. That 's a hard line to take. You seem to have a positive attitude. You mother and sister will come around and accept things on their own terms. So will you. This is all a grieving process from diagnosis to cure. You are all grieving and will continue to do so. It's totally normal and necessary. That's why it is so important to keep coming back here when you feel up to it. There have been times where I have just needed a mental break from all of this and have abstained from the forums for a short while. But, I am always drawn back here for support and to help others.

Your speech will likely get better over time. I was concerned about that, too. I still have some difficulty, but I can hear it more than others can. I did have some speech therapy after surgery, but that was after quite some time of healing.

Just remember, first things first and you will get through this. Right now, you're most likely a bit loopy and recovering from the procedure! Pain management, rest, and recovery and your priorities now. I am keeping my fingers and toes crossed for clear margins and negative nodes!

Be well,
Kerri