I had part of my tongue removed last Aug 3rd along with the neck dissection. I just wanted my family to not push me too fast or try to make this their worry. I had radiation tongue implants this past Feb 29th and that doen't help either. Just give your dad some room and encourage him the best you can. It didn't take ,me long to get back into life, but I had a positive attitude going in and still have it. He will progress as fast or slow as his mind allows him to. I'm glad he has family near him to assist in needed. This I don't have but sure wish I did. My friend took off and hasn't looked back. LOL Of course it was all from my being so mean. She has been told by other OC victims that it changes your personality for awhile, but wouldn't believe it. If your dad gets cranky, just grin and bear it, It's the OC talikng and not him. Good luck and may he heal fast.