Hello everyone, so I have a bunch of updates after a roller coaster week.

I have met my radiation oncologist, and he seemed very optimistic. He admitted he is not certain what to make of the single node in level IV, but said it could have been level III. Also, one of the margins for the primary tumor was pretty close (2mm) though clear. So RAD for sure, though the choice was mine. He was very certain that no chemo was needed and that no medical oncologist would want to touch me at this point.( Apparently the whole board of doctors at JH agrees). I want to believe that but am obviously worried. He estimated, if I undergo RAD, over 90% chance of cure!!!

Also, he claimed to be able to shape the radiation in such a way that the side effects would be moderate, so I wouldn't need PEG and should be able to swallow on my own. He also said that the salivary glands on the right side of my mouth will be spared.

Neither he nor anyone else I have talked to has been able to recommend a specialized dentist. It seems that there is nobody of the kind in the greater DC area. So I have convinced my current dentist to make me fluoride trays and am kind of educating him on my own - don't know what else to do.

On the bad side, I have a couple of more (hopefully unrelated) health worries. On the annual exam my doctor detected a "full" and somewhat painful ovary, so I am having an ultrasound next week. Really freaking out about it. I am also awaiting the results of the Pap/HPV test. Finally, I need to have my thyroid rechecked - last year a benign nodule was discovered but it lit up on the PET a few weeks ago so really hoping it is still benign. One cancer is enough, I am worried sick about all these other tests.

Got all my wisdom teeth extracted, and that went better than expected. Trying to stay positive. Thank you all for your support!