Boston,

How old is elderly?

Was he tested for HPV?

This was written as responding to a poster with the SCC so keep that in mind:

Being near ideal or even under weight you definitely are a candidate for the Peg Tube and perhaps a Port. Discuss these with your docs ASAP. Until then do eat eat eat and eat like you have never before. Make a list of your top 10 all time favorite foods and do nothing but stuff yourself with them until you can't stand them anymore. If the label reads WARNING HIGH FAT, then pounce on it.

The first couple of weeks will probably be a non event but don't think that's all the rad will do as you will most likely suffer like the rest of us weeks 4 thru 3 weeks post Tx.

During the rad consume at least 2000 calories and 48ozs of water each and every day however you can and that's where the Peg and Port come into play as your mouth will become very sore and swallowing will be difficult and painful. Along that line stay on top of the pain meds. If one combo doesn't work let your docs know and try something else. Along with the pain meds can come the big C for constipation so talk to your docs early on to be prepared for it.

You may loose your taste (about 2 weeks in) and you may develop thick mucous ( about 5 weeks in) and eventually your mouth may go dry (usually post Tx).

Mentally this whole cancer thing will take a tole on you and your family. IMO the mental aspect is at least 50% of our battle so don't let things bother you without talking about them. We are the best sounding board you could possibly have.

Everyone can be different but generally these are the things to watch out for at first.

This site will be like your Guide to Surviving OC Treatment except the guide talks back so read all the pages and ask away about anything that concerns you.

Good luck, I'm sure you will do well.
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