New here. My wife (mid 50s) was diagnosed in May 2025 with Tongue/base of tongue SCC, which was staged at IVA with extension to nearby lymph nodes which after surgery was determined to include extra-nodal extension. She had a hemiglossectomy (about 60% removed) with free flap reconstruction in September 2025. Began radiation/chemo in mid-October and just finished the cycle. She’s also receiving immunotherapy

She had no known risk factors for this. Never smoked, careful about what she ate and drank, always exploring supplements she hoped would keep her healthy. So, we’ve both been stunned by her diagnosis.

Heart-broken to see the surgical devastation of her body and the suffering she’s enduring from the radiation. Scared that there’s a real chance I’m going to lose her before she’s even had time to grow old.

I’m so sorry to hear what you’re going through. I’m sorry no one else has replied to you as it is a lonely time.
My husband 54 was diagnosed with stage 4 N2b in February and underwent a mandibulectomy. No smoking, drinking and a very fit man.
Unfortunately he denied all other treatment after surgery and got himself removed from the hospital check up list so I understand how difficult this is, the not knowing, the waiting, the hurt and the grief.
I don’t have any magic answers I’m sorry, but hang on to the special moments.
It is difficult to be on the other side seeing the changes that occur to both our spouses and to our own lives, life just isn’t the same and it is an adjustment I’m still not used to.
I pray that your wife will make it. Just remember to take care of yourself too

Do you know if its HPV +?