It really is an individual experience. Everyone's overall health, genetic make up, stamina etc... comes into play. Personally I wanted to know everything up front, planned for the worst hoped for the best - chemo was nothing for me - a little nausea, rads was HIGHLY UNPLEASANT, but doable. Some would say complete hell.. it really depends on you.
Definitely do what your drs suggest. They have the knowledge and experience. Educate yourself on what is normal treatment for your stage and type of cancer and if what they suggest doesn't match this ask why? As someone said.. short cuts aren't something you want to take a chance on with cancer.

hugs and best of luck.

Cheryl : Irritation - 2004 BX: 6/2008 : Inflam. BX: 12/10, DX: 12/10 : SCC - LS tongue well dif. T2N1M0. 2/11 hemigloss + recon. : PND - 40 nodes - 39 clear. 3/11 - 5/11 IMRT 33 + cis x2, PEG 3/28/11 - 5/19/11 3 head, 2 chest scans - clear(fingers crossed) HPV-, No smoke, drink, or drugs, Vegan