Hi Kazy:
For oral cancer patients this is likely the best source of information on the planet. And you won't find a nicer, more supportive group of people anywhere. We either have oral cancer ourselves or are caregiver to someone who does, so we know what you are going through. Realize it or not, you now have a new family of brothers and sisters many thousand strong all of which care deeply for you.

There will be times when you feel really down about it all. That is very counter-productive. Everyone will tell you to not let it bother you, that's easier said than done. If you take a long term view of this new situation you just make life hard on yourself. The way to get through this is one day at a time and if necessary one hour at a time. So, make yourself a list of things you enjoy doing, things that make you feel good. It can be anything, getting lost in a good book, listening to music, watching old movies, just going for a walk outside, watching and listening to the neighbor children playing outside, the list is endless. Keep that list posted on your front door. when the demons start calling your name, walk to the door, read it, pick one and DO IT. Don't walk away from that door without doing one.

If you can't take someone with you to each doctor visit, get yourself a pocket tape recorder. Ask the doctor nicely if you can record the conversation so you won't forget the important details of what he/she tells you to do. I think approached that way most every doctor will agree to you taping the conversation.

As you read the literature on this site it will make you think of a thousand questions you want to ask. Keep a spiral notebook beside the computer to write those questions down, don't try to just remember them. During radiation treatment one day per week is doctor day, when you get to visit with your doc. I always have at least 10 questions I want to ask, having them written down means I don't forget them.

Kazy, you are starting perhaps the most important journey in your life. Lean on this group for help, we were helped by people who came before us. Now, we return the favor for those coming after us.

It's stiff upper lip time Kazy, you can do this.

Again, welcome to the family.
Tony

P.S. Stop smoking, preferably cold turkey, lots of people have done it just that way.