Hi Mona... WELCOME!

I'm so sorry to hear your brother's cancer has returned. Ironically, my husband's ear pain is back too. He had a bad episode this past Sat. night. I am not surprised because just last week his doctor discovered a red spot way back in the throat area. It is considered "questionable" and he has to return for another look in a month. I am so afraid it is a recurrence.

My understanding is that treatment options will be limited the second time around (if the cancer occurs in the same area) because they cannot re-radiatate (if radiation was administered initially). Chemo could be an option, I guess, but is not known to be particularly effective by itself for head/neck cancers. There is a drug called Erbitux that our website medical specialist, Dr. Joshi, described under the "Medications/Treatments/Procedures" forum. You might want to go there and read his posting. I think the drug is new, but showing some degree of promise in certain cases.

I hope Dr. Joshi will read your post and also respond to your question about new treatment options.

I am sure you are heavy-hearted for your brother, Mona... but KEEP THE FAITH! There is ALWAYS hope. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. If you are a woman of prayer yourself... please also remember my husband, Danny, in your private time with the Lord. I would really appreciate that. I hope you will post new messages as you learn more and your brother's medical team formulates a plan for his care. My BEST to your brother... and you.

From my heart,

Melanie

Hello Melanie I'm sorry to hear that Danny is having further trouble after seemingly being so well. You have given so many of us such a lot of love, prayers and support and now it is our turn to do the same for you both. Let's hope that the fact the doctors don't want to see him for another month indicates there is nothing 'sinister' going on. The waiting is always the worst time. I will say to you what you always say to others....be positive! With love and prayers from 'this side of the pond' Bx