Hello, everyone!

My sister, a 60-year old nonsmoker, was diagnosed with SCC last week. She had been diagnosed with Oral Lichen Planus some time ago but was told the condition was harmless and it didn't seem to be affecting her in any way.

Additionally, my brother, a 40-year smoker, was diagnosed with SCC last year. Unfortunately, after dealing really well with a glossectomy, radiation and chemo, he lost his battle after 9 months due to a suspected embolism.

Needless to say, we are reeling.

I will be her primary caregiver and am freaking out. She is due for surgery (glossectomy and reconstruction) on 7.22 and will have to be alone at the hospital. She is due to stay only 5 days.(possibly due to COVID?) and then comes home with a trach (which is supposed to be in for 3 months) and a feeding tube. Plus, the wounds from her reconstruction. She will have a visiting nurse, which is great, but I have to learn how to do the tube and trach care. HELP!

Does anyone have any advice that will help make this time go smoothly for everyone? What should I be asking the visiting nurses? Any products or procedures you would recommend? I am going with her to a doctor appointment tomorrow - what should I be asking?

Thanks for all of your help and guidance.