We returned to Boston today to meet with Dad's team for a post-surgery follow up. They said he is healing remarkably well. The results of the tests they did on his cancer showed his cancer is Stage 4, but luckily, N0. Our surgical oncologist said this is a very good thing, and it means a good prognosis for recovery. He was able to get clear margins when he removed the tumor, and none of the 19 lymph nodes he removed had cancer in them. He told us today that Dad will have radiation, and possibly chemo to keep the cancer from returning. We will meet with the Radiation Oncology team to get an idea of the dose of radiation they will recommend a cancer center in Maine give Dad, and if they feel chemo is warranted, as our surgical oncologist says we are in a gray area as to whether or not it is needed. Attached are some photos of dad's recovery from surgery.

I do have a question. Dad has just started saying that he can't open his mouth all the way. This is a recent development, within the last day or so. He had his mandiblectomy surgery two weeks ago. I've read a little bit about triasmis and how difficult it is to treat. Is that what this is? We met with his reconstructive surgeon just yesterday. Dad noticed the difficulty when the surgeon was inspecting his flap. We asked if we should be doing exercises with his jaw, and the surgeon said it was normal to feel a little tightness and discomfort when opening his mouth, and to give it some time yet. What are your thoughts? Did you do exercises after your mandiblectomy? How soon did you start?