Chuck, thank you for being right on top of this issue, while they are in the decision making process. It is of the utmost importance that we get the best information available out there to those that need it early in their process.

Ron and Scott - As a stage four patient, you need to approach this with everything at your disposal. Fear of side effects is a common concern here on the boards. And there is no doubt that side effects from chemo, radiation, salvage surgery, are significant. Just remember that this is already at a late stage. Time is not on your side and you need to begin treatments in a timely manner. It is in your lymph system and that is connected to everything else in your body. I do not wish to alarm you unnecessarily, but once the disease leave the loco-regional area, the odds get significantly worse. Side effects of treatment will seem a minor issue if this gets out of the head and neck region.

Brian, stage 4 oral cancer survivor. OCF Founder and Director. The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader is a servant.