Cancer Survivors Network

Hi Everyone,
My mom is 66 yrs old and has been diagnosed for a 3rd time with Head and neck cancer. She was first diagnosed in 1994. Had neck disection, part of tongue removed, and radiation. She did great (was able to talk again eat etc)and was cancer free until July 2012! We are lucky we had 18 yrs with no cancer!! July 2012 it came back on the opposite side of her neck. They removed 50% of her tongue and 75% of her soft palate. They said they had clean margins and all was good. As a result of this surgery she has a gtube (not able to take anything by mouth except water/ice chips) and has severe speech problems (working with speech therapist). Her surgery was Sept 7,2012 and 5 weeks later the cancer was back (on the other side). In 2 weeks it went from just the left side of her tongue, to the soft palate, and wall of her throat. It is very fast moving/aggressive and she does not want anymore surgery. They said she is not a candidate for radiation. She will start chemo this coming week. They are going to do once a week chemo using Erbitux? I'm just wondering what I can expect as far as side effects and or things I need to be prepared for? Any gift ideas of things that might make her more comfortable or products that will help during this difficult time? I just want her to be happy and pain free. You are all so strong...my mom to. I think I would have given up long ago, but you all (and my mom) just keep fighting! My prayers are with you all and your families. Stay strong!