Hi Timm, sorry you have to come on the roller-coaster ride, but here you have a circle of friends who understand and will be there for you.

My husband has a similar diagnosis. He is now three months past treatment with a clear CT scan and recovering. John only had radiation and chemo -- they don't usually do surgery for BOT as it is major surgery. He waited for about six weeks between diagnosis and start of treatment, but there was so much to get ready for (hearing test, fluoride trays, getting the mask made, radiation planning, etc) that the time flew by.

I took the advice of the other posters and fattened him up. We also agreed between the two of us that hydration and nutrition were non-negotiable items during and post treatment. That helped me as a caregiver while he was in treatment because he understood why I kept on pushing the eating and drinking.

I totally agree with DavidCPA's suggestion that everyone needs to stay calm and focused. I would also throw in "be prepared to problem-solve." This really means you should ask questions if you even have the slightest doubt or if there is something you don't know how to handle. I got a lot of help from the nurses at the Radiation Nursing Centre.

It is a tough treatment, but you will get through it.