Kitty-
Welcome! You sound quite a bite like me....about four months ago. Yes, nutrition is critical; oral cancer hits two ways.....the lack of appetite due to radiation and chemo added to the difficulty in swallowing from the radiation. And on top of that, the increased calories burned by radiation and the increased calories needed to rebuild cells post radiation. Stay ahead of the meds.....don't wait for increased pain or nausea to increase medication, etc. We had a PEG tube inserted a week before radiation/chemo began. It was not used pften, but it was a huge help the last week of radiation and the first weeks afterward. And minimal weight loss. Keep that option in mind if eating becomes a chore.
My husband completed treatment 10 weeks ago today. I am happy to report that he is almost back to normal. Eating everyting, appetite at about 85%. Neck has totally cleared up, inside and out and no pain. His fatigue has improved greatly....rarely takes a nap. He is in the gym daily. His only issue now is some nerve damage in his trapesius from the neck dissection. He has been seen a PT and now a rehab doctor. We are hoping the damage can be reversed, but whatever happens with that, it is a small price to pay for what we hope is a healthy long life. Good luck...please feel free to contact me if you have any questions!