My husband was diagnosed about a 15 months ago with STage 4, HPV, oral cancer, base of tongue and lymph nodes. He went through a month of triple chemo and then 7 weeks of brutal radiation. He did eventually get a PEG tube but otherwise did so incredibly well. I should note that he was in great shape before the treatments which I'm sure helped. He had very little nausea or stomach upset. His throat was uncomfortable but nothing like the nightmares I have read on this board and others. He didn't even use any pain meds. He never stopped being able to swallow or take in water but just couldn't eat because things "tasted too weird."

He is now eating pretty normally though his taste buds have not all returned. He has less saliva but doesn t even need medication anymore. He lost about 20 lbs which have stayed off but hes at a good weight. Hes back to exercising and his other healthy habits. He has had 2 ct scans so far every 3 months both negative. He otherwise seems completed 100% back to normal.

However, as a nurse, I know the odds. I feel like I am holding my breath. I read these boards when he was first diagnosed and had to stop because the fear of what might happen was causing such anxiety I couldn't function and I am the only breadwinner. Now I'm back for two reasons. I guess I want to know what the oncologists wont really talk about. Does anyone get through this disease 100% cured with no reoccurrence? I couldn't find any literature on this. I'm supposing that if people were cancer free they might not be posting here anymore. Any ways I am an anxious mess again not knowing what to expect...when will the shoe drop? Does anyone have any good reports?

Also my 82 yr old mom was just diagnosed yesterday with tonsil cancer. We are awaiting final diagnosis but her's is probably from smoking. She smoked for about 40 yrs but quit cold turkey...looks like this evil is coming back to haunt her. I know my mom will choose not to do any treatment so that also has me scared to death. I'm so stressed for both my mom and husband. Thanks for reading my post.