Amanda you sound like you have such great strenght! I know your family is so proud to have you. I recall my mother feeling like such a burden throughout her cancer and I would just matter of factly reassure her and say well wouldn't you do it for me? Ok then - hush - I love you, where else would I be. Do yall have any more family and friends that can help with the trip and give you a break sometimes? Do you live near your parents? We will keep you in our prayers - especially for the upcoming CT scan. I have noticed that there are so many different variables to head and neck cancer that it's really hard to compare apples to apples regarding treatment. My last thought is I think you are right about breathing easier with a diagnosis. That was a "milestone" for me, along with finally starting treatment.