Hi Everyone

I was diagnosed with an early stage SCC left cheek at the end of May. I was immediately referred to 'The' head and neck surgeon who could perform my surgery with the best outcome. My surgery was June 30th. Cancer was removed, left neck dissesction removed 21 nodes without complication. It took 4 weeks to get the final pathology back. All lymph nodes were negative for cancer. All margins were clear. One margin was close but my surgeon was still on the fence about radiation and whether the benefits would outweigh the risk in my case. He presented to the tumor board and they also were torn about radiation for me. He then sent me to a radiation oncologist. That Dr wanted to speak to my surgeon before giving me his opinion. Meanwhile time is going by between these phone calls. I finally track Dr #2 down (he was sorry he did not call me but he got busy) and he says after speaking to my surgeon he would not recommend radiation. So, I had 'The' head and neck surgeon, the tumor board, and radiation oncologist unconvinced about radiation. I figured they were experts, see cases like mine all the time so best to follow their advice. Fast forward to the 3 month PET where a lymph node lights up. Probably nothing to worry about per 'The' head and neck guy but we will biopsy anyway. Go for a FNA and of course that node, along with others, is positive. Surgeon also biopsies inside my mouth where I had 'granulation tissue' from surgery. That comes back positive too. End of Oct I have another surgery, fibula free flap, two hours longer than expected and needed 2 transfusions. I insisted on treatment at the cancer center with the best reputation near me. Trying to get insurance to pay for proton but in the meantime starting IMRT tonight, chemo tomorrow. Chemo wasn't even an issue to be concerned with in June. I know it is cancer which is totally unpredictable. I get that part of it. But these doctors need to not take chances with people's lives either. Even if it looks like a 'well behaved tumor' (that is how they described mine) they need to be cautious and recommend treatment!!!! Patients go to them for help. Anyway, I know rads will be tough. Any advice there would be appreciated. I am trying my best to be hopeful but it is so hard. My mom was just diagnosed with ovarian cancer too.
Thanks for listening. Venting helps.