Hi Bette. I know where you are right now. Its a HUGE shock when they telll you about the surgery. I had similar surgery. It was difficult but I am now 6 years later living a fairly normal life. I have a signifigant speech impediment because I lost all of my tongue but many people who only have a portion of thier tongue removed will regain almost full speech. Even though mine is compromised I still get by very very well.

Unfortunately tongue cancer doesn't usually respond well to just chemo and radiation so the best chance for a cure is this drastic surgery. It sucks but you gotta do what you gotta do and life goes on. It sounds horrific but your husband will heal and recover.

The body (and mind) adapt and compensate. Its amazing what can be overcome.

So I am here to give you some hope - and don't be afraid that this surgery will ruin his life.

Please feel free to ask me any questions. You can send me a private message too