Hi everyone, this is my first post. As my signature indicates, I was treated for tongue cancer starting back in September of 2012 with a partial glossectomy and reconstruction. A PET/CT scan in March of 2013 showed no signs of cancer. Things were going great until the last few months. I started to have intermittent pain, but it did not seem too bad, and the doctor thought it might have to do with nerve regrowth. On this last visit, my radiation oncologist ordered a follow-up PET/CT which showed a significant tumor in the middle of my tongue toward the back. It also indicated some activity in two lymph nodes in the right side of my neck, although they are not enlarged.

The surgeon who reviewed the scan and presented it to me was shocked to see evidence of cancer go from nothing to something of this magnitude in so short a time period. He plans on performing a biopsy on 1/3/14 to confirm. Needless to say, I am reeling. I am hoping by some miracle that the scan is a false positive, but I know that is probably a vain hope.

Assuming the biopsy proves positive, the next step will be a total glossectomy and removal of the lymph nodes on the right side of my neck. I am not even sure how to cope with this news. I have been coping quite well with the partial glossectomy, but it sounds like the total glossectomy is a whole different ballgame. I keep searching the internet for good news from full glossectomy survivors. It's there but pretty thin on the ground it seems.

I would love to hear some encouraging words and advice on how to cope. Thank you.