I was going to take a 2 week vacation but I felt inclined to chime on this. First off Michael is absolutely correct about amofostine. Many here have tried it and the side effects and adverse reactions have make them very sick and/or have to quit. I should also mention that if she is getting IMRT she probably won't need it as IMRT will spare of lot of the healthy tissue. Some of us have done it without a PEG, me for one. I am very grateful that I didn't get one but my opinion is not for everyone. Some here owe their lives to the PEG. It's typically the RO that insists on a PEG, my head & neck surgeoon didn't have any strong opinions either. It's the RO that sees the side effects, followed by the oncologist.

Side effects from radiation vary from person to person. Salivary gland tumors are not seen here very often and it's hard to guess what effects she may or may not have and what you read here is often the worst case scenario. Sometimes I wonder how I got off so easy.

Unlike Michael, my HMO moved as quickly as possible to expedite treatment, moving me to the head of the line constantly. I never waited more than a few days for a test result and often had MRI's and PET scans within a day of the order.

If she hasn't started treatment yet I am confused why she is losing weight now!?!?

If she has no insurance and doesn't own property she could qualify for Medicare or the State variation (Medicaid?) of it. CCC's will work with you - get her into one of those if at all possible.