Sabrina, Maybe I've been unclear. I already had surgery on the tongue and they got clean margins around the tumor (the second time around). They did take a lot of my tongue--about 1/3 of it--but I'm speaking pretty well with just a slight slur when I make "s" sounds (eating is another matter, I have to stick to soft or moist things though I'm seeing a speech pathologist who may be able to help me with that).I'm confused about the brachytherapy. What would they be focusing the radiation in the wires or seeds on if the tumor is excised? I thought that was just used to shrink tumors before operating.

Yes, DF recommended "chemo lite" just to make the radiation more effective but I really don't think I can have it while I have another serious surgical wound healing from an infection. I might be able to have it for the last 4 weeks of treatment , though. I am still going to ask about that. What I'm most concerned to get some agreement on is what part of my neck needs radiating. I am in Upstate NY and I really am not seeing a way I can get treatment at D-F easily and it seems as though, when there is a facility being run by Roswell park just down the road from me, I shouldn't have to be wondering if I should. I just want them to agree more!