Dear Minick;
I was dx. with oral cancer (buccal) in April 2005, I am currently in treatment. I had induction chemo (cisplatin, taxol, and 5fu continous 120hrs) I now Im receiving radiation twice a day, with 5FU 120 hrs. taxol. I just finished my 1st week of treatment. I will receive 4 more cycles (one week on, one week off)
I also work in the oncology field, ironically head/neck cancer. I have experiance in the quality of life with head and neck pts. I cannot stress the importance of a postive attitude.
It sounds that he is very depressed, his caretaker needs to talk to his drs. about any medications. I have seen numerous pts. like your brother, and it seems that the anti-depressant drugs help.
Are there any support groups in the hospital he is at? How about a social worker they can have a wealth of information for him and his wife.
I have seen pts. with recurrent head and neck cancer be cured and in time return to a healthy life.
A oncologist advised me when I was dx. that a postive attitude accounts for 50% of recovery.
Your family are in my prayers, and stay strong for your brother.
Cindy B