Roger you sound very well informed and it sounds like you're in the best of hands. As it was explained to me they keep the surgery in reserve for this type of cancer, mainly because it responds so well to radiation. Also the surgery on advanced tumours tends to impact certain structures in the throat causing ongoing problems swallowing etc.

You've had your first warning from Christine about the 2500 calorie minimum, it won't be the last time you see that. It is so important to the recovery. Start eating well now, especially proteins.

Every cancer journey is slightly different and some people struggle more with some areas more than others. You have a lot of information to absorb, a lot of questions. Keep any information you receive from the internet (including here) in perspective, and don't worry unduly until you've had a chance to ask your doctors about how it relates to your particular case.

Every journey is different but most likely we've been over many of the same bumps. Be sure to pop in and let us know how you are going.