Always be wary of categorical statements such as "there will be more swelling in your neck and it will never go away." In my case, I have muscle and soft tissue changes (fibrosis) from the radiation, and nerve issues from the neck dissection. My neck "feels" somewhat tight much of the time, but it does not look markedly different to others. (We always think that physical changes are more obvious than they really are -- I felt like Frankenstein the first few times I went out after my neck dissection)

Many of us do get lymphedema, aka "turkey neck" from neck dissection and radiation, but this often improves after awhile, as it has with me.

The "C" word has taken on such a stigma in our society, that when we get the diagnosis we think there is no way we can cope with all of the "stuff" that follows. We are wrong. If this site is anything, it is a testament to individual determination and strength. We do not find resolve, it finds us. There are also legions of survivors out there who don't come to this site.

While this is not a fun experience, it is very doable. I think I have emerged as a better person, and that ain't all bad. ;-)