OK, first, I have shared some of the worst in regards to post treatment or late effect issues of treatment with so many here. My first inclination was to not do that because I do not want to instill fear in anyone. Thanks to some gentle persuasion from Charm I decided that it was more important to offer help to those with longer term issues but also because many of the issues I face are really issues that deal with muscle pain, swallowing and such that we all go through after treatment.

Second, thank you Charm since you are right. It is important for all of you to know that there are many with small issues like carrying a water bottle for life, adjusting diet and exercise. As we go through them they seem huge and once we settle into a new normal we trudge onward. Second, for those facing some of the darker days of recurrence, late effects of radiation, etc., it is more important to know that others have made it beyond those days and folks like PaulB and Charm are examples that you can make it through the toughest of situations and still maintain a sense of normalcy and optimism. So, with that in mind, read some of my posts not out of fear but to learn a specific perspective of one patient and see that fear subsides and you move forward with hope, spirit and determination!

Thank you for those that have reached out privately to ask me questions and to Charm and PaulB for just being who you are!

Now, go live life! Be well but be diligent.

Ed