As far as the radiation and chemo goes - I did them both, and I am 6 mos post-treatment and feel almost 100% back to normal. My speech is not perfect, but I don't think the radiation had anything to do with it; I had over half my tongue removed after all. Radiation was hell, but I think if I wouldn't have done it and it comes back later, I would hate to know that I could have done soemthing to prevent it when I had the chance. I figured I would be as agressive with the treatment as possible,that way if it ever comes back I can't blame myself. I was the most scared about the chemo, which turned out to be the easiest part of the entire experience. They most likely will give you a low-dose of chemo, so you will probably not lose much hair and I only got sick a couple of times. Good luck! I hope this helps some with your decision