Wow. Thank you so much for your replies. I guess I'm going to have to read up on modified neck dissection, as it sounds like that might be in my near future. I have to admit...I have had these lesions removed several times..and although it always hurt like hell, it was just my tongue and I always recovered quickly. The idea of lymph node removal is pretty scary! But, I am prepared to do whatever it takes!

I didn't say in my first post, but one of my daughters is 5 months old (the other is 7). I need to be around and healthy for a long time! :-)

Jerry, I might take you up on the offer to talk sometime. I need to find out more first, but I wanted you to know how much I appreciate the offer.

Thanks to all of you!

Jennifer