Hi, I'm Jenna. I was diagnosed with SCC of the tongue on 9/18 and had a partial glossectomy on 10/22 (50%), free flap reconstruction,radical neck disection. I'm 46, non-smoker,non-drinker, healthy. Who knows how I got this? I'm sure everyone asks that question.I spent 11 days in the hospital which were harrowing. Supposedly, all went well, but the experience was incredibly scary. The Dr. said he removed the tumor with clean margins. Two nodes were affected. Not sure how many were removed.
So, here I am, 3 weeks post and I am still so sore. My left wrist is really weak and my neck is so stiff. I've gotten exercises to do, so hopefully that will get better. But, my speech and ability to eat is what's really worrying me. Right now, I'm able to eat or rather drink Carnation Instant Breakfasts or pureed soups. I'm trying to eat as many calories as I can as I've already lost 10 lbs and don't have much more to spare. My speech is muffled. My husband can thankfully understand me.
I'm meeting a radiation oncologist tomorrow. So, not sure when that will start. I've read lots of stories so I'm scared. Hoping for some words of encouragement, advice, etc.

Very glad this forum is here!
Jenna