Dinah - you are in tough situation, and quite frankly, I would probably let the doctor choose too. One thing for certain is - you are one strong lady, and I admire your courage and optimism in dealing with all this. My thoughts are with you - and let us know what you and the doctor have decided to do.
Gary - thanks for the info. As you mentioned - the side effects of the radiation can definitely linger. My husband still has some mouth sores - and the dry mouth - but we were told that was irreversible. Once the salivary glands are damaged - there's nothing that can be done to repair that. Not to mention - healing may be longer for my husband due to the fact he has other ailments such as type II diabetes. Patience is not always an easy thing. Most days we have learned to handle and deal with things as they come along - but sometimes there are days we just can't handle it at all. Oh well - that's life I guess.
Anyways - best wishes and take care always.