I am really pleased to read this update and hear your Mothers decision.
I would have made that same decision. To me, life is worth it and all the consequences. Kris initially said that he would not do the surgery, it was too extreme. But when we analysed and discussed it all, he wanted to live. It just comes down to deciding whether you want the chance of life or not. We all do adjust to and live with ,any consequences. Let me tell you, that for Kris and I , this was absolutely the correct decision . He has lived to see our eldest Son get married. ( and we have just learnt that we are to be Grandparents. But Shhhh. It's still a secret ) there is still so much joy in life and living.
Wishing your Mother all the best .
Tammy

Caregiver/advocate to Husband Kris age 59@ diagnosis
DX Dec '10 SCC BOT T4aN2bM0 HPV+ve.Cisplatin x3 35 IMRT.
PET 6/11 clear.
R) level 2-4 neck dissection 8/1/11 to remove residual node - necrotic with NED
Feb '12 Ca back.. 3/8/12 total glossectomy/laryngectomy/bilat neck dissection/partial pharyngectomy etc. clear margins. All nodes negative for disease. PEG in.
March 2017 - 5 years disease free. Woohoo!