Leila,

I think you should take a few minutes to create a list of reasonable and rational questions for the ENT or whomever is coordinating your care. Please don't go into this with the attitude of "I won't because...." Keep an open mind about what is being said and get a second opinion, if possible. A positive attitude will go a long way in helping your long term health and becoming cancer free.

You are about to receive a large amount of detailed information from your surgeons and oncologists. Bring someone along with you to write down what you're being told. Information is key to your decision making abilities. If a term is used that you're not familiar with, ask them to explain in greater detail. (For example, a partial resection of the tongue is not the same as a hemi or full glossectomy.) Do some advance work. Look up head and neck anatomies and try to get a sense of how the various systems work together. At the very least, learn the anatomical terms.

The people associated with these forums have all either gone through the surgeries and treatments or have supported their loved ones as they worked their way through. Please understand that the questions you ask will be answered truthfully and candidly. (You may not agree with the response, or not want to follow the advice, but its information provided through experience.)

Stay Calm, Be thoughtful and respectful with your questions. Good Luck and keep us posted as to your progress