Glad to hear you're getting through and that the further chemo was okay! It was definitely something to discuss with your doctor, but your decision to make, and glad you were able to. ((hugs))
The radiation will continue its work for a few more weeks, so don't be too discouraged if the pain and need for meds continues for awhile longer. Some heal faster than others (and I sure hope you're one of them), but it's good to know that it's perfectly normal to still be having difficulties for some weeks to come. Saves frustration and panic, which none of us need! Those PEG tubes are a lifesaver, for sure ... but if you're also swallowing liquid nutrition, you're ahead of the game on that one ... you've kept your swallow reflex and that helps a LOT.
And the neck should get better. I remember looking at mine and wondering how it could ever possibly heal. (And I do work with small children, so scaring them is rather an issue, LOL. Any kid who ends up around me learns compassion or at least not to be too blunt! You ask, I'll answer!
) But, amazingly, though it's never felt quite the same since (I think due to the surgery causing some nerve damage too), it actually looks almost normal. Can barely see the scar from the neck dissection (you have to know to look), and it just looks a bit stiff there, overall. Not bad. I had a therapist when it was healed enough who helped with massage techniques and stretching techniques (for the neck and tongue both) that helped a TON with breaking up scar tissue, with keeping fluid build-up away, and all sorts of things. If you encounter problems down the road, that's an option a lot of us find handy. She was a speech and occupational therapist; they did work with stroke patients too (ran into a lady I knew while I was there) and lots of other difficulties, so they had a wide range of techniques available. Worth every penny.
So very glad you're done with the big treatment and can focus on the healing now! Thanks for posting how you're doing! (And thanks for listening and then going with your doctor and your gut on what was right for you. That's always the best thing.)
KristenS
