I want to reiterate what Gail is saying about the amifostine shots as Jack is another patient that completed the entire series by faithfully following the precautions. The hydration and serious anti nausea medication were critical. In addition to the 24 oz of water 90 minutes before the shot Jack drank between 2-3 quarts total for the day, which also helps minimize side effects like nausea. Like Barry, Jack did not get the bad mucousitis and we're hopeful about the salivary function returning as he continues to heal.

You are right that they only hit the highlights of the side effects and treatments in the beginning and that's why it's good to get your own information so you can ask questions. I think we're all in such a state of shock that it's hard to process what they're saying. That's why it's good someone goes with Teri on these appointments and that you write your questions out in advance. The important thing to remember is that there are good results from these treatments and people are surviving these cancers.

Jack also had a modified neck dissection prior to chemo/radiation and recovered well from that. Like your daughter he didn't smoke or drink, he worked out, watched his diet and went for regular medical and dental care. We were blown away to find out he was in stage 4 with no symptoms and no obvious risk factors. In the beginning I was consumed with trying to find out why this happened until I realized that it didn't matter what caused it because we have to focus our energy on going through the treatments to get rid of it. We're all in the same boat dealing with a surreal experience we didn't expect to have and doing the best we can with the information that we have at any given point in time.

Jack and I got through it with lots of support from family, friends, and this forum. Yes the treatments are difficult and there will be side effects - some that may be permanent - but that's what allows us all to be here to share our experiences and help each other. My best advice is to keep visualizing the end result of Teri as a survivor and do whatever you both need to do to get there.

Best of luck and keep asking those questions. If you haven't seen the getting through it posts on this forum they are really worth looking at. Very practical and encouraging information. You can also do private emails to any of us if you have specific questions by clicking on the icon in our posts. Scroll back to see all the I wish I had known comments and that may be helpful to you. Also the home page on this forum has tons of great links and information so look around what's in there.

Regards JoAnne