Hi there, SS,

Congratulations on getting through the first week (and a half now) with a positive attitude! I'm so glad that your brother's feeling good. Be sure he keeps eating, okay? Really, it's just soooo important for him to put on every ounce possible right now! The Zofran makes it possible to keep eating; that is a miracle drug, and thank goodness many of the insurance companies cover its cost. [My doctor said she didn't care about the "quality" of the calories--just to get them IN there!] I managed to gain 10 lbs. before I began losing 30. I'm back to normal now, though sometimes I thought I never would be.

We all know that, yes, "things will get worse." But just really enjoy today. He can still eat! YAY! That is a big deal! His medications are minimal right now, so you have time to start a list or spreadsheet and organize it into the hours of the days. I think I had 17 medications, so getting that list organized sure gave my husband something concrete to focus on while I was snoozing.

Thank you so much for your update. We're there with you all, and we wish you all the very best.

Carol

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!