Hi everyone

Like many others I have recently come upon this site and have read some interesting things. I was diagnosed with tonsil tumour in November 2010. Received radiotherapy which has resulted in radio osteonecrosis. Following hypobaric O2 therapy, two debridements and another biopsy the tumour is back. I had a peg fitted yesterday and am due to have surgery next Monday. Throughout this journey I have tried to remain as positive as I can and kept active etc. That changed this week when I saw my consultant and he went through each stage of the operation and possible complications. Basically I have to have a tracheotomy, neck dissection, L hemimandibulectomy, L tonsil tumour resection, R fibula free flap, R abdomen skin graft and possibly more dental extractions. He told me that half of my tongue would be permenantly numb and I would need speech therapy and would never speak as I am doing now and there could be nerve damage to my neck, shoulder and leg. I held it together until I got home and then crumbled as the enormity hit me. Yesterday I decided that I may not go ahead with it but had a chat with a nurse at the hospital which helped. I'm sure many of you have been through this and worse. I'm feeling very scared, vulnerable and worried about my quality of life in the future. I would really appreciate any of your comments or advice. Best wishes to everyone.