Rita-my husband also had invasion of the jawbone and lymph nodes. They combined chemo and radiation as the chemo he was on (Cisplatin) made the radiation more potent. You ARE up to the ride. You can't get off now-it's not over. Make sure you understand what the side effects will likely be so the surprises are minimal. Also, if you don't understand something, make the doctor explain it until you do. Don't be afraid to ask questions even if the answers are hard to swallow.

Sue

cg to husband, 48 Stage 1V head and neck SCC. First surgery 9/07. Radiation and several rounds of chemo followed. Mets to chest and lungs. "Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain." Went home to God on February 22, 2009.