Hello everyone. I am new to this site and still trying to find useful info. I was diagnosed with stage 4 tongue cancer in August 2006 that had spread to lymph nodes in right neck. I had surgery in September 2006 to remove a 3" tumor from tongue, remove lymph nodes followed by 6 1/2 weeks of radition and chemo. Everything seemed pretty good for a period of time. My checkup in February 2008 showed granualtion on the tongue it was decided to remove some scar tissue to give better movement. Biopsy also taken showed cancer cells again. Went back for more surgery in May 2008 to remove another part of tongue and implant tubes for brachetherapy (1 week). This severely weekened me and I haven't worked since then. All these procedures were done in PA and I moved to TN to be near family. Had a checkup and biopsy in December which didn't show anything. Had another biopsy in February because small spots had appeared on tongue. Cancer had returned for the third time. CT scan was performed and cancer is localized but surgery suggested by Vanderbilt Medical Center is removing most of the tongue, right jaw bone,and some bottom of the mouth. The fibula will be removed to fashion the jaw bone replacement. Tissue and skin will also be removed from leg. The surgery is a 14-hour ordeal and I am trying to find info on some alternative option. I haven't found anything yet. I haven't read much yet to see what others that have gone through this surgery have to deal with or how they made out.