Dianne,

I was told not to drink during the vital years, the years that have a high percentage of the cancer coming back--the first two years post tx. However, my RO told me not to drink at all forever. He explained that alcohol is strong enough to damage the cells in our mouth, he added for a healthy person it's not a big deal but for someone who has had OC the outcome can be detrimental. My RO also told me his patients that did not stop drinking or smoking after OC diagnosis did not make it, that cancer has always won. Now, even though he didn't tell me I know he was talking about excessive drinking...But why take that chance. I was never a hard drinker...maybe a few drinks here and there...maybe 1 or 2 cigars every year or two on special occasions. Maybe just a few drinks and 1 cigar a year was enough to give me cancer...The point is I don't know.

Will I go out and drink casually? No. Will I have a glass of wine at a wedding or special occasion? Yes, but not for a couple of years or so. Why take a chance during the vital years. Will I have a cigar if I ever have a child? ABSOLUTELY NOT. I'm addicted to breathing.