Ok, So we are on the 4th week of radiation. He is doing really well. So well in fact, that I thought I would share what has been working for him.

He has had issues previously with an enlarged uvula, strange but, true. It gets enlarged and swollen to where it can be difficult to breathe (especially with the mask) and also has some congestion. Because of this he has been taking daily mucinex since the start of radiation. He also takes daily zyrtek-D and flonase. Breathing has been much better.

During the 2nd week of treatment which includes weekly chemo, he was getting some mouth sores and very sore throat, was also fatigued. Last week was probably the worst so far. I looked inside of his mouth and it was spotted with white on the roof and back of his mouth. He was very good at using the Nystatin and magic mouthwash and it seemed to help but, he talked to a doctor friend of his who uses a lot of homeopathic remedies and he mentioned Sea Buckthorn berry oil and Aloe vera juice. Neither are very appealing to drink, let alone swish around in your mouth but, according to him nothing tastes good and it is tolerable. He does the Buckthorn oil in hot or warm water, just enough for a mouthful with a dropper of oil. Drink and swish around then swallow. A little after that take the aloe vera juice about 2 ounces and mix with a little water and do the same thing. Since he started this regimin 3-4 times a day, his mouth sores are almost all gone and he is still eating oatmeal and ensure. Just to see if he could, he ate a burger and fries tonight. It tasted awful but, he felt he should finish it as excercise! I know we still have a long way to go but, the doctor is amazed how well he is doing.

He also started the Biafine ointment on his face and neck 3 times a day during the 2nd week and he doesn't have any burns at all. I actually used it when I burned my hand cooking and it took away the radiating burning feeling after putting it on twice. Pretty incredible stuff.

I know that everyone is different and I am so thankful that he is doing so well. I just hope to share this so that maybe other people can get some relief also. It's a scary road but, the key is to stay in front of your symptoms. Stay hydrated, get your calories and use this stuff!!!

He is also still getting excercise everyday. Even when he doesn't want to!

Thanks for listening!