If it were I who was getting such mixed messages, I would do as Liz has suggested and get a second opinion. This is too important to worry about feelings. You don't have a clear answer yet, and to expect YOU to make the decision yourself without full information is not reasonable.

In my opinion, it is very important to know, as much as possible, that you are doing the right thing, and the only ones who know that are those who deal with it every day. How in the world could you make the radiation decision yourself??

In California, you have a wealth of quality medical institutions. I would call one today. Just tell your surgeon that you are not able to make the decision with the information that you have and would she recommend a center where they might help you make the decision. Or just choose for yourself and go there.

Call today. Most people DO get a second opinion. This is too important to wonder about.

Colleen--T-2N0M0 SCC dx'd 12/28/05...Hemi-maxillectomy, partial palatectomy, neck dissection 1/4/06....clear margins, neg. nodes....no radiation, no chemo....Cancer-free at 4 years!