Jim, my sister is currently facing a similar decision. We are at a large cancer center in TX. We were first told by the surgeon no radiation was needed because the final path report from surgery was so great. We were elated at this news. The next day we were told by the MO that radiation should be considered. We are meeting with the RO tomorrow afternoon, but basically at this point the recommendation seems to be do the radiation. She is 24 and we are also very concerned about long term side effects. She had the tongue stint made for radiation today, but we won't get the official word until tomorrow. The dental oncologist called tongue cancer a 'devious criminal' today, noting that finding and managing the microscopic disease is very difficult. Thus, the radiation recommendation for us.