Hello All,

Dad just started his Tx on Monday. I get the feeling that some of his healthcare "team" are too "buttery" with their advise to Dad. He was told at a dental appt. that he shouldn't be too bad at all since he will only undergo 25 x IMRT. I know everyone is different - I do realize that. Can any comment on this same Tx plan? I see in most of the profile that I read that the Tx run 30, 35 etc., some with chemo, some without. Is this advice accurate? She made it seem like a breeze. I just hate the thought of someone blowwing smoke up his a*#!! I don't think it should be all gloom and doom, but I don't want him to be blindsided either. I asked his RO about the PEG - he was against the idea at this time since Dad will only have the radiation on one side. He did point out that the TX will probably permanently damage his salivary gland on the right side, but his left side should make up for it. He mentioned something about a nasal tube if it was needed - can anyone comment on this? His RO seemed to paint a very descriptive picture of what Dad may endure with his skin (burning, weeping etc), so I think Dad is prepared for that.

I have talked in great length with Mom about what Dad wants to know and he wants to cross each bridge as he gets to it which is fine. I just feel that some people have downplayed things a bit - maybe this best? I just see Dad really clinging to the good stuff. I hope it is easier for him than most - in fact, I pray for it. Maybe 25 Tx is not as damaging? I know Dad get really frusterated when things change, he has always been an impatient person. I've taken on so much information and I'm just sitting on the sidelines watching and waiting......

Don't mean to ramble, just wondering if anyone has insight on this same Tx course in the same location.