Administrator, Director of Patient Support Services Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts) Joined: Jun 2007 Posts: 10,507 Likes: 7 | DMB, I completely understand your point of view. I had similar feelings but being a single mother with 2 teenagers depending on me made it one hard decision. I almost refused my mandibulectomy in 2009 but the members of this forum convinced me I couldnt quit before I at least tried to beat the cancer. I was 46 when my doc told me to get my affairs in order. Looking back on how my life since then has been I cant say I made the wrong choice. I was so tired of being sick and going thru so much that I felt enough is enough and I would just let nature take its course. My main concern in my decision to not get treated was my children. I felt I could better prepare them for my passing if I was able to explain it slowly over weeks instead of dying suddenly during the surgery. Every single day is a gift. Im so thankful that the kind members of this group thought enough of me to speak up. My life is a very good one since the mandibulectomy. Ive been here to see my oldest child get married and my youngest child have 2 babies of their own. Being a grandmother is the best thing in the world!!! If you are weighing out your options, please reconsider and do as I did. Dont quit before you try to beat cancer. I know its not easy but please put all your best efforts into it before you give up.
No matter what you choose we will always support your decision. ChristineSCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44 2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07 -65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr Clear PET 1/08 4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I surg 4/16/08 clr marg 215 HBO dives 3/09 teeth out, trismus 7/2/09 recur, Stg IV 8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy 3wks medicly inducd coma 2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit PICC line IV antibx 8 mo 10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg OC 3x in 3 years very happy to be alive |