Hi,
My name is Jewely. I was diagnosed with tongue cancer March 2021. I underwent surgery (have some scars and am still working on my speech). I just completed radiation two weeks ago. I am nervous about starting back at work and when I think too much I get anxious about my future. I am 43. I recently started exercising again and went on a hike. I plan to go kayaking as soon as my peg tube is removed and heals up a little.

Hi Jewely,

I think it makes sense to see a psychiatrist for anxiety if you are seeking medication. But in terms of talking things out and finding coping methods, I found patient support groups (such as this one) much more helpful.

Hey Jewelry,

It’s going to be a marathon not a sprint. I’m being honest. However, regardless of the effects of treatment, and new effects can present even years after, the reality is that it’s going to be worth it.

I had Stage 4, neck dissection, partial gloss, lymph nodes removed, immunotherapy and radiation. I went back to work in a month after radiation. I should have given my body and mind enough time to adjust and me enough time to grieve my old life. I was an attorney with my own practice and was the main support for my family. I should have declared disability in retrospect.

There are so many follow up appointments, having to consult with cardiologist, neurologist, therapist, o/t, speech therapy plastic surgeon (and I’m sure my list is short compared to others.) You need to just heal for the foreseeable future. That’s my opinion anyway.

I was speaking two hours after surgery and do mouth stretching 4 times a day to keep things from getting tight as scar tissue forms. Make yourself do it. Also, I used Lush Dream Cream and Sympathy immediately after each radiation and applied at least two additional times per day, massaging the whole time. I have minimal scarring and speak well enough to be understood.

I’ve had a recurrence recently so another 17 hour surgery and tumor’s out. Then my jawbone had osteoradionecrosis so it had to be replaced with my fibula.I’ve had a hard road but it’s doable. I’m an elected official in my town and have been for the past 8 years so I did all this in public. For me, I felt it was important that people see the very public trauma of head and neck cancer. Maybe try just volunteering as a first step instead of working right away. I just know it would have made things easier for me. But maybe it’s not the same for you. I won’t judge.

I will be praying for you and would be happy to share tips and tricks I have learned. I look forward to hearing from you.