Hello Debra...and welcome from another Texan. Things aren't as grim as they seem. I was 54 when I was diagnosed with Stage IV, base of tongue, and wasn't fortunate enough to have IMRT, so I had a pretty tough recovery and lived on liquids alone for quite a long time. However, now, four years later, I am as active as ever...just got back from working out at the health club and play golf too much in my wife's opinion!...and I can eat just about anything. Most of my sense of taste has returned and I enjoy eating as much as ever. Your husband is relatively young, IMRT is less damaging than regular radiation, and although it won't be easy for a while...I am sure that one day you will be cooking delicious meals again in your gourmet kitchen.

Best of luck and Hookem!

Danny G.