Hello Tessa,
Welcome to our little corner of the world!!
Did they tell you what type of radiation you are receiving?
What was the staging of your tumor? As Mark mentioned Sloan Kettering is one of the best Head & neck Cancer centers in the USA.

I had IMRT radiation and I haven't experienced the dry mouth many have. I do drink alot of water every day. It helps in these dry Wisconsin winters.
Take comfort in knowing you are being treated at such a major comprehensive cancer center. Many of us have traveled the path before you and can be a valuable source of information to tap into.

Sorry to hear about your Mom. Is there anyone else who can help her through her recovery? I'm afraid you will need all the energy you can muster to get through your treatment.

Take care and know you are not alone as you start your journey.

Danny Boy