Sharlee,

Sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but glad that you have found this site that has many others who have been through this. I was also diagnosed with tongue cancer on the left side of my tongue, in April 06. I have to second the importance of getting a second opinion at a major cancer center - or CCC as they are called. I live in the Atlanta area and although there is a fairly good cancer center at our teaching hospital here, it is not a CCC and isn't really noted for it's work in head and neck cancer. And, when I asked the ENT who actually did my biopsy how many patients HE had treated with my condition - his response was 3 - so I KNEW that he wasn't doing my surgery. After much research I decided to go to MD Anderson in Houston - and have never regretted my decision. Since you live not too far from 2 well-known cancer centers, I would encourage you to go to one of them for at least a consultation before you rush into any further treatment. Sloan Kettering was actually on my list of the top notch places to go...

I am sure it's difficult with 5 children (!) but now's the time to call in family and friends to help support you in this critical period. I am sure once they know the situation people will want to help you out.... If I lived near you I certainly would!!

By the way, I did have a partial glossectomy and selective neck dissection, and at first had some trouble speaking but with time and doing my exercises (I went to a speech therapist a few times who helped me with this) I think I am almost back to normal, and probably only my closest family and friend can tell any difference.

I also have an ENT here in Atlanta that I see for any "urgent" problems (not the same one who diagnosed me) and have had a couple of f/u tests here rather than fly to Houston - it has all worked out very well. I did have my surgery at MD Anderson and go there for my routine follow-up visits...

Wishing you the best - and keep asking everyone here those questions - there is an incredible amount of knowledge here!

Ginny