The anxiety I had between surgery and starting radiation was awful. Looking back I now wish I had relaxed - but I was obsessed with side effects and what would happen next. My doctors have played down side effects except for swallowing and weight loss. They also let me know that when things get worse they will have new salves, mouthwashes, etc.

One thing that helped me manage the wait was setting up what would be needed - making sure I had water bottles for rinsing, creating a checklist/schedule to make sure I drink enough water, hit my daily protein target and complete swallowing exercises, etc. There is a small psychologist boost in taking action when faced with something that is totally out of our control.

I also ate all my favorite foods and gained 5 lbs. (not on purpose! Wine and pasta will do that ;))

Side effects are starting exactly as I read on the board so all my worrying was for naught. If you can relax and get lots of rest.

You will get through this and you have all our support.