Thanks everybody. My wonderful husband went with me yesterday and together I think we retained most of the information.

My tumor is far enough back on the tongue they will have to split the jaw to get to it. I am also looking at a skin graft due to the portion on my jawline, and a selective neck dissection.

I was prepared for the skin graft and the neck dissection...but the jaw split caught me completely off guard. I handled the news okay, but it really hit home while talking to the plastic surgeon. I am going to have one hell of a scar.... but...at least it sounds like they think it's contained and can be completely removed with surgery. The Dr. has told me to expect around 10 days in the hospital with the first in ICU.

I sure would like to hear from anyone else who has had this type of surgery. Also...any advice on what to tell my 7 year old? She already knows I'm going to have surgery. But, I haven't mentioned cancer around her yet. She is a very mature little girl, and I'm sure she will pick up on it once more of our friends are aware of the situation. I think I can tell her without scaring her (i.e....remember Aunt Ruth had cancer? She's fine now...). I would just rather her hear it from me. Any advice?

Thanks,
Jennifer