hi folks, bit about us: I'm 35, trying to care for my much beloved, John, who is 45 years old, had about 55% of his tongue removed in January 2003, which was rebuilt with his forearm. Long year, 2003.
John's neck was stubbornly leaking 'stuff' for most of 2003 - it only dried up during radiotherapy. A recent exploratory operation revealed that this wound is connected to the plated area of the jaw bone, which has not healed as expected. Hence, a series of HyperBaric Oxygen 'dives' prior to an operation to help the healing of the jaw bone, using bone grafted from the hip, is the recommended course of action. Dissappointing, but manageable - we kept consoling ourselves """at least its not cancer"""...
Until 30th December, when our surgeon had to tell us that the pathology lab says that tissue removed during the exploratory is cancerous, but that he will seek a second opinion on this, as he finds it difficult to believe. So, we've had another biopsy, which is to be sent away for a second opinion. Any advice as to how to get through the two week period, waiting for the results, would be much appreciated.

HI, My heart goes out to you both at this time.
Well read my story DB's story and it is very similar to your partner except my Cancer was in the mouth.
Having said that I am waitng to see what happens about my teeth as they are all bad after the Radiotherapy and have already had 4 biopsies for possilbe reoccurance this year of the Cancer, so I feel I am in a postion to try and give you some help.
Firstly NO BODY knows what you feel like all the time going round in your head is it Cancer? has it come back?
They also talk to me about having Oxygen treatment before the teeth extraction 30 days before but the % rate is high for bone infection.
I am scared and the Consulant ( a wonderful Mr K)
is reluctant to take them out as well because if I get an infection in my jaw will be in the same position as your partner.
I do hope my story helps you and you can mail me anyway you want private or on the board.
I am going to the Hospital myself tommorow so will be thinking about your partner,
Best thing keep yourselves occupied and try to distract yourself anyway you can.
I wish you BOTH well and do let us all know on here how it is going.
We are a freindly bunch if not too honest for our own good sometimes !!

Cheers

Paul

Hi Jenbee

Paul is right (thanks, Paul).

In difficult times, all one can do in life is to hope for the best and do what one can. Appreciate what we do have, by keeping occupied doing things that which make us happy, with those we love. May things turn out better for you both this year.

Best wishes
Vinod :coffee:

This post regarding the RDOC website resource has been moved to the topic 'Counselling' to answer the questions raised there as to why this resource is not pointed out to patients in the UK.