 Patient Advocate (old timer, 2000 posts)
Joined: Apr 2005 Posts: 2,219 | I can't count the number of times that I have been asked this question. Close friends and family, of course, knew that I hadn't smoked since I was 18 years old.
As difficult as it is, you have to get past being offended and just answer the question. You could use that time as an opportunity to educate the person as to the many causes of oral cancer as well as the fact that there are times when there is no known cause, such as mine.
Or simply just say yes or no. Leave it at that and then see what they say.
I hope your mom continues to well.
Jerry
Jerry
Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.
"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"
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