I'm in the same boat as Margaret except I had over half my tongue removed. They did save the tip of mine which has helped with my talking. I had my surgery May 19th and I am finishing up radiation and chemo this week. My tongue was also reconstructed from my forearm and I had a bilateral neck dissection. I continue to amaze my doctors and my speech therapist with how well my speech is, so it is quite possible that your Papa's speech will be good. If you have any questions you can private message me or email me.


Stephanie, 23, SCC on the right side of my tongue, surgery on 5-19-08, over half my tongue removed, free flap constructed from my forearm, bilateral neck dissection, one positive node. Radiation (32) and chemo (carboplatin) started on 6-16-08. Recurrence 4/09 in lungs.

**** Stephanie passed away 12.15.09.... RIP our dear friend****