It seems that everyone reacts to treatments a bit different. I was told before I started treatments about peg tube and other issues I may have. They wanted to think about staying near the hospital for the last few weeks of treatments. I live about 70 miles from Duke. After the 1st week or 2 my ENT, Rad, Chemo drs. were talking to me and prdicted that they were 95 % sure I would not need a peg tube and would not have "serious" issues. They were correct, did not need a peg tube and was able to drive myself to almost all treatments everyday. Later I asked how they knew.....the answer was - based on their years of experience they can tell. They did not know all of the reason but some it is based on "good genes". Some patients and their bodies accept the Chemo, Rads better than others. I still ask why I had an easier time, very quick recovery, etc. No good answer. Bad luck of the draw to get get SCC ? Good luck of the draw to handle treatments well ?

There are people on the board they have had easier time than others but it pays to be prepared for the worse and pray the best happens. This forum was a great help to me in understanding the potential isssues and having a plan and resources in place to address what may happen.