Gino,

I agree with you about getting a second opinion from MDA or MSK -- this can be a tough call when you're at Stage I with what looks like a pretty good chance of survival without radiation.

That being said, if you get input from another team that suggests radiation is warranted, try not to be put off by the list of "negatives" you heard from your doctor. Yes, there are a number of common side effects that often go with radiation, but they're not automatic in all cases. (I still have all my original teeth, and have gotten back quite a bit of salivary function, even though I had radiation years ago when there was far less that could be done to alleviate dry mouth.)

Please keep us posted on what you find out.

Cathy