Hi Teresa,
I know this is a really scary place to be. We were there last July. We did the induction chemo as well, then 6 weeks of IMRT 2x day. It is a hard journey, but you will make it through.
As the care giver there will be times when you are completely overwhelmed, please don't hesitate to personal message any of us, or just fire away on these forums. We have all been there and between all of our experiences will be able to answer many of your questions.
The thing right to do right now, if he is able, is to eat like crazy. My husband lost 56 pounds. Most everyone loses a substantial amount of weight so whatever he can eat after his surgery he should be eating triple of it!! Hydration is the most important thing after nutrition. Christine will be along to give you specifics. It is vital to keep him eating and drinking for as long as possible. Scrambled eggs work great when his throat starts to get sore. That and milk shakes of course! There is a list of foods that are easier to eat. Christine will be able to give you the link to that too.
Activia works well for intestinal issues from the chemo.
What is he getting for chemo?
Anyway, we are here. Please feel free to vent, cry, yell...whatever you need to do, we have your back!!
Blessings,
Kathy


Kathy wife/caregiver to:
Kevin age:53
Dx 7/15/11
HPV16+ SCC Stage IV BOT/R
Non smoker, casual drinker
7/27/11 Cistplatin, taxotere,5FU 2/3week sessions, followed by IMRT 125cgy x 60 (2x daily) w/Erbitux weekly. Last rad 10/26/11. Last Erbitux 10/27/11
PEG placed 9/1/11 Removed 11/8/11
Clear PET 10/12 and 10/13 and ct in 6/14