Hi All,
Wanted to send out an up-date now that I've completed chemo and radiation (2/2/11)

Treatment was very challenging - had several personal pity parties while lying on the bathroom floor. Mentally, one of the most difficult things for me was that the "countdown" to the end of treatment really didn't mean anything since the 2 weeks post treatment could be equally challenging. I am thrilled to report that I actually have been feeling better every day since treatment ended! No nausea, diminishing oral ulcers throughout, rad burn improving, secretions are thinner, less mucous overall but not too dry, feeling a return to the normal cycle of life - wake/sleep patterns, energy improving, going for walks, and even went to yoga yesterday!
All that being said, I'm still on 50 of fentanyl and eating only ice chips while being supported by the feeding tube - so I know that I am in no way out of the woods just yet - just feel like I'm on a nice solid path to recovery!! This weeks' focus will be on tapering fentanyl and reinstating eating and drinking!

Thank you all for your support - I really did need it to get this far!!
Take good care!

Jan, Ive been wondering how you were making out. To me it seems like you just began treatments a couple days ago. Im sure to you it seems like you have been doing them for many months. Glad to hear you are doing so well. Consider yourself to be one of the luckier patients. Best wishes for a speedy recovery!

Thanks Christine! Don't get me wrong - treatment lived up to all expectations! I recall thinking before treatment started that the path ahead was long, dark and scary - and it was at times. It is amazing to be sitting here now and have the treatment phase over and to feel like I'm on the mend. I just want others to know that it really does get better - I think there were times when I actually doubted the truth of that!
Take very good care!

Hi Jen

So nice to hear that you are recovering well. As a new member this site and someone who has had a recurrence early in the game, I am fighting the fear factor so many times a day. My treatment will begin with a revision radical neck dissection on MOnday to remove the involved nodes and everything else. Then recovery, then on to chemo and rads. Seeing your story and positive attitude gives me more hope that I can get through the hard road ahead.

God bless and good luck with the rest of your recovery.

Liza

Nothing like hearing news that one of us is toughter than we thought. Your post , to me , suggests that you are accustomed to this new way of life and holding up quite well. Keep it up and kick butt. An imagination is a good thing, unless it works overtime.

That's fantastic, Jennifer. Congratulations on getting through the worst. You're a fighter!

David 2

Glad you are doing so well - I think attitude has everything to do with it -- if you can relish even the small improvements - it really helps - many blessings to nownthat you are done!