Irene,

I'm sorry you and your husband are having to deal with this, but you've come to a good place to get the information and support you need.

Is he being seen at one of the major cancer centers? There is a list of them under "Other Resources" on this site (here's a link to it:
http://www.oralcancerfoundation.org/resources/index.htm#centers). With this type of cancer, it's really important to get the expertise of a head and neck tumor board representing the various disciplines: radiation, chemo, and surgery, as well as dental professionals.

Radiation in particular can take a toll on the system, even in otherwise healthy patients. It's important to keep up with daily nutrition and hydration goals (there should be a nutritionist available to help with specific dietary recommendations). The effects of radiation usually take awhile to show up, so he may have 2-3 weeks where he's feeling OK, and then suddenly notices changes such as loss of taste, fatigue, mouth sores, thick mucus, and swallowing problems. His medical team should help stay on top of the situation and be prepared with medication for pain management.

If he's working now, he should have a contingency plan in place with his employer to take some time off, if necessary. Different people have different responses to this kind of treatment -- some are able to work at least part time during some or all of it, while others find it impossible (this can also depend on the nature of the job).

Try to read up as much as possible on the posts on this site. There are many people here who have made it successfully through the kind of treatment your husband is facing, and have posted suggestions about how best to get through it. Feel free to check back here often with your questions and concerns.

Cathy