Brendan, having options is always good!

Of course the quality of life issues should be a part of your consideration. Make certain not to include the fear of the unknown into that mix. You already went thru a major life changing surgery so I strongly feel you can make it thru this next round too.

In your considerations, please hear from someone who lives this everyday. Im speaking as someone who is permanently disfigured. Im not talking about having a scar on the wrist for a free flap, a neck dissection scar or crooked smile either! I am missing half of my jaw and I cant hide my disfigurement with clothing or makeup. Children were afraid of me during my first year before the reconstructive surgeries. But even now people stare. The first year was the hardest! I have many quality of life issues which would make most other people in my situation hide in the house. I am missing all my teeth, will never be able to have dentures. I will depend on a feeding tube for 50-75% of my nutrition for life since Im too stubborn to drink those awful ensures. I have swallowing issues that makes me choke on even yogurt sometimes. Im weak and cant physically lift more than 15 pounds. I also tired very easily, my stamina levels are always low. I could go on and on about whats wrong with me after Ive had OC 3 times within 3 years, but Im sure by now you get the picture.

Now I will tell you about why the above paragraph really doesnt factor into things. I am alive! I help thousands of people. I do not sit around feeling sorry for myself and considering all the things I mentioned above. My life is a very good one even with limitations. Maybe others wouldnt see it that way but Ive always been a very independent, upbeat and positive person so my point of view is that Im very fortunate. Looks are superficial and its what is inside that is important. Looks fade and change with time, mine were taken away from me when my jaw was removed but there isnt anything or anyone in the world who can take away whats inside. Inside, I am still the same person I always was before I got sick.

So instead of thinking about "what if" and thinking of all the life altering changes that "may" happen.... think about what kind of person you are and if you can handle persevering thru this. What I know of you says YES YOU CAN!!!! If I didnt see you as a fighter you wouldnt have gone thru everything you already did. While I do see your wife's concern, the final decision is yours and yours alone. You came this far, please dont quit before you even try to get thru it. Being alive and living with handicaps and disabilities can still give you a very worthwhile life full of happy things.

Best wishes!!!!