So week 10 is now behind me. Measuring progress and setbacks have become taxing because I am not where I thought I would be by now. I am thankful for the progress don't get me wrong. Since my last update
I have eliminated pain meds completely

Had difficulty sleeping at times

Lost 10 pounds while maintaining 2500 to 3000 calories

Gained 5 back thanks to Christine's magic shake and 4000 calories

Worked in the office for 2 full weeks including leading a few all day meetings last week

I am eating throughout the day albeit small portions. Use PEG 1 to 2 times a day just for extras

I made visits last week and this week to all of the medical team. All were pleased with progress,

Had another laser treatment to tongue and think it is 85% healed. Still sore and not able to eat on that side. Next and hopefully final treatment Wednesday.

Radiation recall on neck is gone but it does heat up sometimes

Fatigue is no longer an issue

Dry mouth is. Rinsing with Caphosol and taking a med to stimulate saliva.

PET is Tuesday and there is no anxiety- the result is sure in my mind and heart.

PEG should come out Friday when I meet with Dr. to discuss results.

My wife reminded me that Dr. Old told me 12 to 16 weeks for recovery to feel a sense of normal and up to a year to find new normal. I should have paid more attention to that and not strived to heal faster than the norm. This will be a life long journey I'm sure.


Age 55 HPV 16+ SCC, BOT 050613 Stage IV
great team at OSU
Tx 6 weeks of rad started June 3
8 weeks of chemo started May 28
RTOG Phase III trial Cetuximab group.
Treatment completed 7/16/2013
PET Scan completed 10/08/13
Results discussed 10/11/13
NED - Free but am I
Next part of the journey?
1year PET 10/24/14 NED
Good reports now 10 years out.