Welcome to OCF, Linda! Im very glad you have found OCF to help you get thru this. We will give you correct medical info and moral support. This is quite alot you are dealing with. Its ok to cry, everybody cries at times in their life. This forum is a place where its ok to vent if you feel the need. Dont let everything build up, getting a cancer diagnosis for many of us is shocking and brings with it a whole new range of emotions. Now that you have found OCF, just know we do understand as we have been exactly where you are and know how hard it is.

I have had the surgery you described, its called a mandibulectomy. This is a very long, involved surgery. Mine was 10 hours, but I did not have my leg bone used.

Ask for a possey muir valve trach so you will be able to talk when you wake up. Make certain you ask several people about this and insist you need this particular type of trach. It really will be a huge help!

I hope you have a caregiver to help you with everything. You will need lots of support to get thru this. Write down anyones name and number who offers to help you. tell them when the time comes you will let them know what they can do for you. The time will come and dont be shy to ask for help. Many friends and relatives arent sure what to do or how to help so they need to be told.

Please feel free to ask questions about your upcoming mandibulectomy and I will be happy to answer them.

Best wishes!