That is a great story, David! I was born and raised in the Bay Area before moving to Ohio 14 years ago. Yeah, the taste and the fried salivary glands are not a lot of fun, but not bad at all, under the circumstances. At just about 14 months post treatment, my taste is about 85%. I can taste just about everything, but some things are still a bit off, and overall taste is a little muted from before.
As for salivary glands, well that has been a slower process, and I am probably close to as good as it's going to get. Lots of Biotene products and lots of water, and I can eat just about anything.
An inspiring story -- keep up the good work!