Hello, everyone. My father's surgery is this Thursday and I am just so glad as his pain has been increasing steadily and it breaks my heart watching him struggle with this . . .

Today the reconstructive surgeon told us that, if my dad needs to have the bone replaced in his mandible, that he will have to use bone from his scapula (shoulder blade). He tested my dad's legs and the blood flow is not great. My dad only has one good arm so he did not want to use the arm, nor does he like to use the arm because he feels the bone is too thin. I was just wondering if anyone has had this done in this area and what to expect.

It is all a big unknown as to what will be done on Thursday. The waiting is so difficult for me, I can only imagine what it is like for my dad. He does not know what he will be waking up to... either they will just be removing the tumor in the front of his jaw, or part of the bone or all of the bone. Plus a bilateral neck dissection. Today, well, today he just looked so awful that I wanted to just cry but want to hold it together for him just a little bit longer. I have spent the last few weeks crying and now I feel it is time to be strong. But how do I not lose it when I see him for the last time before surgery?

You all have been so helpful and supportive and I cannot thank you enough for being there for us. I am touched by your strength and how you are all so giving. Please send a prayer or two our way on Thursday. . . it will be the longest day ever.

Laura and Ted