Cheryl, I am sure you will find the answers you seek as treatment continues. We are a diverse group and there is usually someone with first-hand experience with just about anything. I, too, was stage IV with lymph node involvement, had the surgery, then rad and chemo, and am well and happy and have been back to real life for more than two years. It has been three years since my diagnosis. Except for this forum, I have no daily thoughts about cancer because I am so completely recovered. This can happen for your dad too, so do not panic, and do not give up hope. Knowledge truly is power, and you have come to a very good place to become educated. Welcome.