Oh yeah, Packer66, take pictures. My favorite one of me, with eyes glazed by Schedule II narcotics, looks for all the world like a serial killer. After some deliberation, I opted not to use it for Christmas cards (grin).

Kim --- do take pictures of Dave so he can measure progress. This is really important with regard to the swelling following neck dissection. It feels huge and unchanging, but is actually getting smaller and only a picture can prove it. And someday, you can reach the point where I am, when the pictures are cause for laughter.

I am off tomorrow on a back country fishing trip, but will send strong positive energy your way on the 16th. Just remember that Dave is not the first one to have this surgery and the rest of us made it through, so he will too! I hope he can characterize his surgery as a walk in the park, as I was able to. It isn't always awful. I looked like a monster, but there was no pain after the first night. As soon as it is allowed, learn and practice lateral massage. Makes the swelling recede in a remarkably short time.

Joanna