Hi dear Sad Sister, I am so sorry for your sad news. We will get through this, even though, especially at the beginning, it sure makes one's heart sink. That pit-of-the-stomach pain is unavoidable. But here at the ocf site, we've all been through it for ourselves and for loved ones. We are here for you.

AND * * * I live in Maryland, too--in Rockville! Where do they live? I would be so happy to help in any way I can. My cancer was stage iv, and now 18 months later I am cancer free and can eat almost anything. So please KNOW that this is treatable with many patients recovering completely. Where is he being treated? I highly recommend Hopkins in Baltimore, though it was a long drive for our family. Going there was SO worth it for me!!

Please offer your brother and his wife my phone number, 240-644-5558 (cell), and let them know that I will be glad to go visit them in person and answer any questions, and encourage them. Really, I will do that. You can call me any time, too, okay? If I don't answer, please leave me a message. I will definitely get back to you asap!

I'm so glad you've signed on! Don't lose heart, Sad Sister, and know that your whole family is in our prayers. This a journey you do not have to take alone. We're with you!

Carol Kanga

Non-smoker non-drinker, 50 when diagnosed 9/11/06 stage IV scc of oropharnyx, malignant lymph nodes both sides of neck. Cause=HPV16. Daily chemo & daily IMRT for 7 weeks. In 2 clinical trials at Johns Hopkins, good results. Peg tube out March 07. Update September 2014: gratefully in good health!