Scott,

I am sorry you are going through this. Your post brought back memories I had when I first found out I had Cancer. I also found the hardest part was telling my 5 kids and wife. As I had never smoked, did not drink, I never worried about Cancer.

You are correct about life insurance. You will not qualify.

I also felt guilt having to spend money on my own healthcare that took money out of college accounts. With a large family, I hated spending money on myself instead of the family. This guilt was purely mine, and it made my wife mad when I expressed my guilt.

Looking back over my past 1 1/2 years since I was first diagnosed with Cancer, I am encouraged. My life has changed, but in many ways it is the same. I was off work for only two months recovering from my surgery. I was able to work full-time during radiation, and post radiation side-effects. It was hard, and I hope and pray I never have to go through this again, however we all do what we have to do to beat this terrible thing called Cancer.

You will get through this. It sounds like you have a great support system. Just try to keep your Spirits up, keep positive. Do not be afraid, or vain like me, and ask for help when you need it. It may get rough, but it will also get better.

Best wishes and prayers.

Eric


SCC 9/2012 right upper right maxilla
Surgery 9/27/2012 to remove portion of right maxilla
DX-after surgery cancer cells in margin
RAD-33 TX ended 12/05/12
2/13-current-Severe Trismus and Radation Fibrosis
6/13-clear PET
6/13-Infection in radiation area of mouth, with surgery to drain infection
8/13-ended 40 HBOT treatments
11/13-Clear PET
3/14-Botox injections for severe Trismus
5/14-Clear PET/ 11/14-clear PET
Male age 53, non smoker, non drinker