I have the same cancer you have. MEC of the Rt Submandibular gland. I am currently recovering from my neck resection. I had a nerve excised that left me with the rt half of my tongue paralyzed. Also lose of feeling rt cheek. I'm hoping that will get better. I am a non-smoker, non-drinker, HPV neg. I have been taking immunesuppressors for a number of years and wonder if that has any bearing. I am unable to function without them.