Hi everyone...Just introduced myself in the Introduce Yourself forum
Did anyone here (or is currently) undergoing induction chemo? I was just recently diagnosed with Stage 4a SCC of the oral tongue. The tumor involves 90% of my tongue and today my doctor recommended (and stated is standard of care) total removal of my tongue. When I asked if we could shrink it first to try and salvage my tongue he said he would be willing to do induction chemo. I am 40, very active, never smoked, HPV- and to boot I am a teacher so losing my tongue means losing my career---and something I am truly passionate about.
Would love to hear about experiences and thoughts.
(all this happened in a matter of 2 months---went to doctor who gave me antibiotics, dentist treated for traumatic ulcers til finally on June 1st ended up oral surgeon who said biopsy right away).

Last edited by MandaRe; 06-16-2015 07:41 PM. Reason: typo
DX 6/5/15 Stage 4a SCC left lateral tongue, tumor involves 90% of my oral tongue
LVI and PNI identified
Med Port and PEG 6/23/15
Started Cycle 1 of Induction Chemo (TPF) 6/24/15--3 cycles in total
35 External Radiation sessions and concurrent chemotherapy (2 additional rounds of Cisplatin)
Brachytherapy
Remission as of 2/17/16