Hello, Kelli.

Please be reassured that there is a wealth of information at your fingertips through use of this site. Sometimes we can't get our hands on the info as soon as you would like it, but be patient and persistent. We are all here for each other!

Your situation is very similar to my own. I had a very small tumor removed in February; recurrance three months later right next to the original excision on the tongue. Surgery at the end of May indicated clean margins, Stage I, no lymph node or distant metastasis. Unfortunately, the cancer board recommended radiation.

I will stop right there and tell you that few of us are doctors and none of us will attempt to give you a diagnosis. I do think that it is time to get a second opinion.

There are two National Cancer Institute approved centers in Indiana where I am sure they can help. The Indiana University Cancer Center has a Head and Neck Oncology Department Whose Director is Dr. Stephen Williams, MD phone #317-278-0070. Purdue University Cancer Center is also available (sorry, I didn't look up their info).

Say a quiet prayer, as we will for you. Now it's time to be proactive. Make a phone call and I think you'll feel better, because both the doctor AND you will always have a say in your treatment.

Take care, David