Dear Nervous,

Of course you are terrified! I want you to take a deep breath and then I want you to know that you are going to be ok. I am one of the few....but not the only one....on this wonderful site who have had a maxillectomy and palatectomy. Mine is not as extensive as yours might be, but I have an acquaintance who has had removed almost as much as they are discussing for you.

Do NOT feel that reconstruction is not an option for you. At 39 you have plenty of time for a conservative waiting period to check for recurrence. My acquaintance here in Louisiana has had reconstruction for her non-malignant tumor.

I am sorry that you have to go through this, but I think I can help you with some questions. Feel free to write me here, or to email me at thetexadas@suddenlink.net . I don't get to the forum every single day, but I do check email several times a day.

I have lots to say, but first I want you to know that there are others on this site who will also have advice, so I want you to stay connected here, as well as emailing me.

You are fortunate to live near some wonderful medical advice in Philly, as well as some of our most generous forum members.

I hope to hear from you. I do wear a prosthetic, having lost about a third of my maxilla--on the right--and about a third of my palate on the right side.

You do have a challenge ahead, but at least you do not have the added worry of malignant cells metastacizing to other organs. That's something to be thankful for! You are going to be ok, and there are many talented oral professionals who can help you regain function through good surgery and good prosthetics. Have hope! You can do this. Please write!

XO--Colleen