ROLL CALL 2021 - First Post (Section 1 of 9) <<<<CLOSED>>>>

Section 2 of 9

ROLL CALL 2021 – First Posting December 9, 2021

H&N MEMBERS aak16 - 6Cyn

aak16, from Pennsylvania. Enrolled February 12, 2018, 30 years old and Diagnosed with SCC of the vocal cords in June 2017 after laser removal of some of the growths. Completed 29 radiation treatments in July-August 2017. Radiation kicked my butt and while I had the summer off because I'm a teacher, I took 5 weeks off of work once school started at the end of August to recover. My 3-month post-treatment CT scan was clear. Right now I'm 5+ months out and my problem is that my voice is very weak because my vocal cords aren't vibrating. A Laryngologist told me there's no fix for it but we should wait until the one year mark to see if some fo the function returns after my throat has had more time to heal.

ADBWanderer, from Arizona. Esthesioneuroblastoma polyp surgery June 2018, dx June, surgery August 2018 in Tucson AZ. , getting cisplatin every third week and radiation M-F for 6 weeks. Doing pretty well with fatigue as the main symptom. I am the caregiver.

Adventurebob, from California. joined forum June 2010, enrolled August 21, 2010. DX’d NPC, Stage IV, with mets to lots of bone. In May 2010. Checked in January 20, 2011. MIA in 2012 checked back in March 2013. Lots of chemo/radiation in 2010, more in August 2011 for bone mets in right hip, more chemo/radiation Sep 2012-Jan2013. Married in bottom of Grand Canyon October 9, 2012 and now doing well.

AJW1966, from Maryland. Joined forum November 2012, enrolled March 7, 2013, DX’d August 12, 2012 w/SCC left side HNC. Treatments completed November 30 and still have difficulties with after effects, but slowly improving.

Akotke, from Alabama. Joined forum March 2011, enrolled August 12, 2011. DX’d Stage IV, right tonsil in November 2010. Was MIA until checked back in February 12, 2013. Still NED, working full time and attending school for Nuclear Medicine. Still w/constant pain from radical neck dissection, dry mouth and some trouble swallowing.

Alpinelife (?) Enrolled February 4, 2019 I’m still here. I began my cancer journey late 2013 with Stage 0 (or carcinoma in-situ) tongue cancer. Have had two recurrences, the last in Oct 2017 as stage IV tongue cancer. Treatments ended in Feb 2018, since then have been NED. A tough journey, but life remains good.

AndrewP16nose, from New Zealand. Enrolled July 19, 2015, Diagnosed Sept 2014. Invasive SCC nasal septum extending into maxilla. Incomplete excision Oct 2014. Radio and chemo for 35 days. PET scan April 2015- NED. Facial reconstruction surgery with fibula free flap June 2015. Recovering prior to tidy up surgeries.

Andy13460, from Republic of Ireland, Co Mayo. Enrolled April 22, 2017, Hi I started with a sore throat end of August 2016, visited a G.P. first week in November. G.P. finally sent a referral letter to an ENT consultant

on January 12. 2017. I got to see the consultant on February 28, 2017; he felt around my tongue and said there and then “there was a growth inside my tongue at the base right hand side.” On March 6. 2017 I had a Head & Neck MRI scan; CT scans head, chest, abdomen & pelvis. On March 13, 2017 I received the results of the scans, i.e. 2.2cm tumour with what looks to be 1 lymph node so it came up as T2:N1:M0 (CT chest, abdomen & pelvis nothing showing up) He couldn’t do the biopsy to far back so he referred me to a colleague who could, 1st appointment 27th March2017 with this consultant and biopsy arranged for 29th April under a general anaesthetic. Results in for the biopsy 7th April 2017 SCC HPV+, to far back for surgery so it will be 3 Cisplatin day 1, 22 & 44 with 7 weeks IMRT radiation. Back to the present time I see a radiation oncologist 25th April and treatment hopefully will start around the 15th of May. I'm 241 days from first symptoms. Checking in July 11, 2017 Now 2 weeks after treatment finished. Home in the west of Ireland3 Cisplatin & 35 IMRT zaps T2:N1:M0 BOT HPV16+ Going back to work in just over 2 weeks’ time, off meds and getting back to eating and tasting food again. Checking in January 5, 2018, All Good up to now 6 months out of treatment. Eating is normal taste is 100% back Saliva is about 90% back. No pain slight amount of mucus still nothing to bother about. Running 60 to 70 miles a week completed a marathon in November in 3:30 (2nd overall), half marathon next Saturday & another marathon end of March. I’ve nearly managed to get the weight off that I put on for treatment!! Checking in February 4, 2018, All Good 32 weeks out of treatment. No issues everything back to normal apart from the slight loss of hearing due to Cisplatin. Running 80 plus miles a week and will race my 2nd marathon since treatment finished in another 6 weeks’ time I'm actually quicker now than I was before I hadtreatment. Checking in June 14, 2019, still here nearly 2 years out of treatment.

AnotherSurvivor, from Colorado. Enrolled Feb 19, 2017, Retired, 64 y.o., married to an incredibly strong and intelligent woman. Stage III T-3, N-1, M-0 +HPV SCC confined to right tonsil. DX 10/25/16.  35 IMRT treatments with 7 Carbol/Taxol chemo treatments. First treatment 11/15/16. All treatments at Kaiser Cancer Center in Colorado. I found Kaiser to be phenomenally effective; I would rely on them for treatment again without hesitation. My chemo and my Rad oncologists are as good as you can find, including at places like MD Anderson, The quality of their support staffs are perfect, the Infusion Center at Kaiser became almost a second home. On 12/07/16, after repeatedly passing out on the floor, I was admitted to emergency care in the hospital where 3 pulmonary embolisms were discovered. Total of 10 days of in/out hospitalizations destroyed any sense of continuity. Full treatment for my cancer continued during my hospitalization, they wheeled me to the beam in a bed. It was hard at the time, but I finished 1 day later than originally scheduled. Sentenced to 12 months of daily subcutaneous Lovenox injections in my belly for the embolisms. Completed cancer treatment 01/03/17. No PEG, I did get a PICC during the first hospitalization. Started at 218 lbs., ended at 177 lbs.

 Today, I just completed week 7 of post-treatment, slightly over 100 days since diagnosis. Weight is usually +181 lbs., I consistently get down +2,000 calories, but it's pretty much just nutrition shakes. Mixed blessing, current weight is considered a healthy weight and my vital signs say I'm very healthy, but my muscle mass is gone, simple tasks are a challenge. Overall, everything is improving, none-the-less my general life confidence is pretty well trashed. Some days are better than others, but my main concerns today are dry-mouth, lack of taste, spotty sleep. Some days I am constipated, I'm doing powdered fiber and Senna, and eventually that works. Right now I'm simply trying to heal up my last mouth sores, figure how to deal with dry-mouth, and start sleeping. Spring is coming, and I need to push myself to be more active. PET is still 5 weeks out, but I feel pretty good about my odds. Overall, I feel more numb than lucky.

armana, from Texas. Enrolled January 6, 2018, 3 years 2 months post treatment for Stage III SCC in tonsil with one lymph node, HPV+. Treatment included surgery to get the tonsil out followed by 6 1/2 weeks of radiation but no chemo. I am doing great with the exception of some dry mouth back to normal.

Arndog64, (?). Joined forum March 2011, enrolled husband in April 18, 2011. DX’d left tongue base tumor w/lymph node invasion on January 28, 2011. After MIA, reported back on February 5, 2013. Husband doing well but still has throat pain and teeth starting to deteriorate.

Avisemi (caregiver) from Washington, DC. Enrolled July 15, 2015. My husband was diagnosed with Nasopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma Stage III or IV depending on doc on Sept 2014. Finished treatment in February of this year. First post treatment scans were NED. Next ones are next month. One of the favorite tips I learned here: "if Jeff can do it, so can I do it".

Backachedp, from Minnesota. Joined forum October 2009, enrolled July 24, 2010. Husband DX’d as unknown on September 29, 2009. NED May 23, 2010. MIA in 2012 and checked back in March 13, 2013. Was doing OK but with swallowing problems. Having lung issues due to aspiration. Dr recommending feeding tube. Checked back June 22, 2013. Surgery on May 20 and swallowing/coughing gotten worse. Also have back problems. God bless and saying a prayer for him.

Barbaraek, (caregiver) from New York. Joined Sep 4, 2015. Diagnosed 5/26/15, NPC Stage IVa T4N1M0, 35 radiation tx with 2 concurrent Cisplatin, currently attempting adjuvant chemo Cisplatin + 5FU. Finished treatment September 2015 - was only able to tolerate one round of adjuvant chemotherapy. Great news was NED on October 2015 PET scan. Will now receive regular scans. Check in July 12, 2016, scans today are NED! Monitoring will now be every 6 months. Dry mouth is still a big challenge, but eating is getting better, and energy is returning. Chemo port, PEG, and all pain meds are gone...and hair is back! Diagnosed with Stage IV nasopharyngeal tumor 5/15. Checking in, February 8th & 18th, 2019. We are still NED 3 1/2 years post, (yay!) but have had significant complications from the radiation. The latest is bilateral vocal cord paralysis which is affecting breathing, swallowing and speech. A tracheostomy seems to be in our very near future. Nonetheless we still consider every day to be “icing on the cake” and just celebrated our 34th wedding anniversary.

Bart T, from New York. Joined 03-2013, enrolled 12-31-2013, DX’d 03-2012 w/tongue cancer. Hemiglossectomy, radiation & chemo. All clear at time of enrollment and back to 100% on activities and life style, but with minor but annoying side effects. Check in Aug 12 & 13, I recently posted about 4 years since my last treatment, so now is as good a time as any to check in. The short story, 4 years out, no cancer, doing everything just like before cancer, but do have a batch of annoying side effects, mostly from the radiation. I complain a bit now and again, but very happy to be here. Checking in May 24, 2020, Now about 8 years since I started treatment. I got to retire and move with my wife to an over 55 community and enjoy retirement. My annoying side effects have not resolved but got a little worse, but I’m still happy to be here.

BeagleDad from Arkansas. Enrolled and checking in October 15, 2020. Diagnosed with Stage III tonsil cancer that went into left lymph today. So, here I am for your roll call. Awaiting biopsy to determine if HPV related. Fingers crossed. Still investigating and figuring out this roll call, pages, and discussions. Not real happy right now. (But not depressed or nothing ..... just bummed)Thank you Beagledad

Bebo12249, Mississippi, Enrolled Oct 29, 2015 SCC HPV+ of the tonsil with positive lymph nodes July 2015. Tonsillectomy followed by seven weeks rads and Cisplatin. Completed treatment on 10-22-15. Thanks to everyone for their comments, support and knowledge. Check in, Aug 12, 2016, Had a 10 month post treatment scan today - NED!! Checking in Feb. 18, 2017 had 16 month post treatment scans - NED! Checking in March 2, 2019. March 1, 2019. 3-year 4 month scan was NED and all is otherwise well. Thanks for everyone’s support. Checking in April 21, 2021.I Had my final 5-year scans in Summer 2020... NED! No lingering effects except occasional cramping of neck muscles at radiation site. Otherwise all is well. Never give up.. CivilMatt, thanks for all you do and I just read about Phranne51 - so sorry..

Behindthepen, from Massachusetts. Enrolled October 26, 2016. Bottom of Tongue with metastasis to lymph nodes. Just finished 15/33 rads and 36 chemos at MGH. Throat starting to give me trouble, eating has become work instead of pleasure, but still playing hockey, so I'm not beat yet.

Billie67, from California. Joined forum July 2012, enrolled October 24, 2012. DX’d stage IV laryngeal SCC with few lymph nodes. PET/CT NED on September 28, 2012. Checked in January 3, 2013. Updated 01-01-2013.

Billbo Baggins, (?) from Maine. Enrolled February 13, 2018. I have Stage IV, HPV+, I’m done with treatments 35 radiation and 3 chemo. Wasn’t told about dep medication ression until it hit me last week so I called the nurse and got on some for I t. Now I’m getting of my counseling and this is part healing process from the depression. I will share my story soon. 

big G from South Carolina. Enrolled Diagnosed in Aug 2018 SCC bot- I had neck dissection, with 60 plus nodes removed on both sides. Left side was clean with several positive nodes right side noextracapsular spread. Tors surgery,33 IMRT tx. I couldn't eat solids for 2 weeks after Tors surgery, took the rad tx fairly well except the normal lost taste buds, dry mouth, etc. I now have about 80% taste buds back, everything healed very well, still have dry mouth and turkey neck but getting better. I have first C-T scan of the head, neck, and chest on 3-5-19. Dry mouth, eating well although will be 1 getting esophagus stretched soon surgeon recommendation. 12-12-19 was my year checkup and NED!..  I am thankful for this site and wish everyone a speedy recovery. Checking in February 15, 2020, Doing ok so far some tightness in neck ,chin area, taste back to 85% or so eating good but will be getting a throat dilation next month recommendation of my ENT/Surgeon. Back to work a year next month. Checking in October 7, 2021 overall doing good and thankful for this site that helped me get through it and life is good for me at the current time. currently near 22 months since last treatment. Thanks to the fine people on this forum for encouragement, sharing and caring. I would like to mention Phrannie51's NGU (never give up) demeanor was an inspiration to me as well as others on this forum and she will be missed.

bild, from Nevada. Enrolled Dec 21, 2016.  Diagnosed in the last days of 2015 with Hypopharyngeal SCC. First trach and feeding tube in end of 2015, my feeding tube has just celebrated it's first (and last) birthday. 8 cisplatin, 44 rads, then in October a laryngopharyngectomy (I'm not proud that I can spell that). I now have a permanent trach, can't smell anything, but I can eat and expect to lose feeding tube soon. Taste is not the same, but it's not too bad, and this eating thing is way better than Jevity. Can't talk, but maybe soon, with a voice implant if all goes well. Haven't had a PET scan since surgery, so I can't claim NED, but soon, maybe. So, in 2016, 2 trachs, feeding tube, medi-port, 2 pneumonias, surgery and no food for 12 months, but I had my cancer removed, so all-in-all, a good year!

Bjohn, from Illinois. Joined forum October 2011, enrolled January 22, 2013. Husband DX’d w/olfactory neuroblastoma in May 2011. Recurrence in neck in May 2012. Good response and feeling well at time of enrollment. Updated 01/22/2013

Boardwalkgirl, from Indiana, joined forum June 2012, enrolled February 10, 2013, DX’d April 26, 2012 with SCC in lymph node on side of neck. Treatment completed and clear PET scan on October 27, 2012, Still struggling with lack of saliva and taste buds.

Bob Watt, from New Zealand. Enrolled Jul 14, 2017 Finished treatment for Tonsil, Lymph Node, HPV+ Stage IV, 21 April. Had a rough ride for first few weeks post, but now taste buds have returned, eating reasonably well, and dry mouth is a plague from the desert, I'm sure. Lost a bit of weight, but heck, I'm alive, what more can one expect. Checking in October 28, 2017 d husky voice now means I can sing as good as Lee Marvin ("I was Born Under a Wandering Star")

Bughunter (OM) From Tennessee, 2007 Stage IV tonsilar cancer. Last treated on March 28, 2007.

Bunnymom, from Illinois. checking in May 22, 20114 Tongue cancer. Starting chemo & rads June 8th. 12 week treatment plan. Thanks to everyone for their support! Checking in Sept. 22, 2016 2 years NED. Thanks to all that have been kind and supportive. Made all the difference to me.

CajunEagle, from Louisiana. Joined forum October 2009, enrolled February 3, 2010, DX’d Stage IV, left tonsilar cancer in 2009. Enrolled on February 3, 2010. Reported back in March 7, 2013 and still doing well. Checked in January 6, 2013. Checking in Jan 14, 2014 and doing quite well. Thanks to all. Checking in Aug 17, 2015 After 6 years post treatment…I’m still around. Thank you. Checking in Jan 2, 2016, Coming up on my 7th year since treatment.for cancer. Doing well in that regard. Underwent 3 full-blown surgeries for intermediate Melanoma on my right ear (between lobe and sideburn) in February, 2015. After reconstruction of ear area, all is well except for numbness in that ear area. Currently undergoing 30 dives of Hyperbaric Oxygen treatment for removal of a molar on my left lower side. 20 prior to extraction, and 10 after. Extraction was 8 days ago with absolutely no pain, and I have only 3 dives remaining. All this due to radiation from 7 years ago. Each session of HBO has a duration of two hours per day. Takes one heck of a commitment. Check in July 11, 2016, After all the other stuff I've been through up to this point, on May,12th 2016, I was informed that I had a re-occurrence of Melanoma in my right ear area. Long story--short, I lost my entire right ear and ear canal. I now have a flap over that area that was taken from my right thigh. Surgery was 14 hours long with a team of 3 of the best on this earth. Eight days in ICU. SOBs tried to say I was aspirating and placed a feeding tube through my nasal passages to my stomach. Wanted me to intake Jevity....which I did for 3 days at home. They wouldn't release me till I agreed. Surgeon from 09' stepped in and removed it and gave em hell. New side effects...1) Droopy right eye ( to be fixed Aug.12th). 2) Nerve damage to right side of mouth. It "may" return to normal over time. 3) Very sore right lower jaw and burning around throat and former right ear area. 4) And back to slow eating issues. Only been a month and a half, but I'm ready to get this over.

Cardoza33, from California. Enrolled June 26, 2016. Age 45. Diagnosed Nov. 23, 2015 w/ SCC Tonsil Stage IV. Two cisplatin and 6 weeks of rads. finished treatment Feb. 3, 2016. In May I had first NED scan. Feeling good. Eating is a chore, ringing in my ears and some nerve issues, but otherwise feeling good and happy. Checking in May 15, 2017, Vastly improved over last time I checked in. No complaints back to100%

caregiverwife (?) Enrolled February 3, 2019. Help, CivilMatt needs more information to do this H&N member justice.

Carolinagal4, from North Carolina. Enrolled July 26, 2015 diagnosed Stage IV SCC of the tongue (side of tongue) with lymph node involvement in April 2015. Finishing up 35 radiation treatments with concurrent chemo (Cisplatin) now--one more week to go! The cancer has shrunk considerably so far and I am hopeful that it will continue to shrink (if so, I may avoid surgery). This site has so much great info and people on it--I feel lucky to have found it! thanks so much to everyone who takes the time to reply--You make a difference! Checking in Jan 18, 2016, Unfortunately, PET scan revealed that my cancer was the aggressive type that had grown back. I had sub-total glossectomy and selective neck dissection in November 2015. Currently dealing with dry mouth, sore throat--hopefully these will be temporary. Since I lost my entire oral tongue (the part that moves) and was only left with the base of tongue, I have very limited mobility with the flap that replaced my tongue (from my arm). Some days, I can speak well enough to be understood although it always sounds like I have a mouth full of something, other days my voice is so hoarse that I can barely make a sound--this seems to be related to the dry mouth and sore throat issues. I have not been able to resume eating and survive on a peg tube. I am also having difficulty drinking, although this seems to be improving and I am in swallow therapy. I do have lymphoedema in neck and massage is helping.

catfish_58, from Texas. Joined forum February 2013, enrolled July 30, 2013. DX’d SCC left tonsil, HPV+ Stage III. 33rads and 7 weekly chemo's of Cisplatin, Started treatment in 2-25-2013. Treatment completed April 20, 2013 and scheduled for PET on July 31st. Am 9 months post now, Saliva very little, taste almost back to normal. Check in Jan 13, 2014. Checking in May 20, 2016. just checking in and doing pretty good, Thanks to al l members of CSN for the words of encouragement and all info. Checking in January 15. 2020 Checking in, Sorry to hear about the losses, Especially Phrannie51, helped me out numerous times, Update on treatments am taking Keytruda for Stage IV tongue cancer, seems to be keeping it at bay, not shrinking but not growing or spreading, hope everyone had a great year, take care

Catluver96 (?) Jan 15, 2014, Diagnosed July 2012. Tongue cancer Stage III. Radical neck dissection. 1/3 of tongue removed. Skin graft from thigh for side of tongue. Chemo (Cisplatin) and 33 rads started October 1, 2012 finished November 15, 2012. Doing well. Eating good, have most of taste back. Read forum often. Best wishes to all.

CatPerson (?) Enrolled February 4, 2018, Hey folks, New to the boards and hope to see you all periodically. I'm newly diagnosed with olfactory neuroblastoma as of December 2017 and have yet to receive radiation. Currently awaiting 2nd surgery to remove hopefully all of the mass as the 1st surgery was mostly for diagnostic purposes. Also awaiting another CT scan of neck to see if it's metastasized. Well wishes to all. Peace and long life.

CathyHorner, from Tennessee. Joined 11-2013, enrolled 12-29-2013. DX’d Stage III, Laryngeal cancer in June 2013. Clear pet scan in 11-2013. Need trachea for breathing and difficulty speaking.

Charlize, Alberta (?)

CherieLW, from Ohio. Joined forum May 2010, enrolled dad on June 4, 2013. DX’d cancer of sinus w/one affected lymph node. Undergoing treatment at time of enrollment.

Chillg8r (?) from North Carolina. Joined the H&N forum on July 8, 2021. Included in the Roll Call on October 29, 2021. I was diagnosed in January 2021 by an ENT at UNC hospital while investigating swelling in my jaw, just below my right ear. 7 weeks of daily radiation and weekly chemotherapy. My wife has taken all of the communication with friends and family on, very helpful. I’ve learned that I can handle very tough treatments but that nothing is guaranteed.

Christmas (OM) from California. Joined forum May 2005, enrolled July 8, 2008. DX’d NPC Nasopharyngeal in 2004. had been absent but back in. Last check in July 14, 2013 and life has been good. Dealing w/problems and completed 10 years from DX. Checking in May 21, 2014 Sorry I missed the roll call. I have been very busy with work. Lots of demands and deadlines requiring 12 hour days. Can't complain except that I don't have much time for anything else. Good news to share - I have a new grandson who is now four month old. Unfortunately, he lives a six hour drive away. It's been nearly eleven years since my diagnosis. I feel very fortunate. Very minor complaint - dry mouth an issue because people have difficulty understanding my speech. Still no other meds aside from a low dosage of synthroid. Lots of infections - eye, bladder. Lots of dental problems. Other than that life is GOOD! Just getting older. Checking in, September 21, 2016, Sorry, have been too busy to check in. Grandchild #2 arrived a month ago. Still working long days. Health good except for more dental problems. Checking in May 25, 2017, The adventure continues. Focusing on dental care and dental work. I had the hyperbaric treatments in December and had two lower right molars removed with no problems. Now I have to look into lower left molars. The problem is NO saliva or bad saliva, so there is no good bacteria to keep my teeth healthy. I now have a referral to see a dental specialist/oral surgeon at Stanford Medical Center.  The appointment is several weeks ago. Staying healthy-14 years since my NPC treatment...Best to all! Checking February 21, 2018, Everything is fine, but still having lots of dental work.  The teeth are going fast! Good thing that I can still work to pay all those dental bills. Fourteen year survivor! Checking in January 18, 2021. Hi! Wishing everyone a wonderful 2021! I'm a sixteen year NPC survivor still spending most of my money on dental work. Despite the pandemic, I am fortunate that I get to enjoy a new granddaughter who was born in June. Wishing everyone a safe and healthy new year! Christmas

Chriswick, (?) Enrolled and checked in September 4. 2020, DX Submandibular Nodule, Going through implant surgery and got a boil/infection in gum on right side rear mandible from implant removal closer to the front. ENT says it may have been from novacaine injection. Went to ENT - he sent me for CT scan and ultrasound. A 1.5 cm nodule was incidentally discovered in the submandibular triangle on the left. I have had extensive reconstructive dental surgery meaning crowns and root canals which lasted 20+ years until they started leaking and abscessing. Biopsy was done this week. Three good samples although ENT was worried about them really being able to get into node. ENT office secretary called today and sounded anxious saying he wants to see you Tuesday AM. Now I will be freaking out all weekend. Was wondering if this could be from all the extensive dental procedures or something more? No other symptoms with this.

Chucka21, from Kentucky, joined forum April 2013, enrolled May 21, 2013. DX’d February 21, 2013 w/SCC unknown primary. Modified neck dissection March 5, 2013. Tonsillectomy April 14, 2013. Undergoing radiation at time of enrollment.

cid817 caregiver to husband, from Virginia. Enrolled July 24, 2015 Husband was diagnosed August 2013 – SCC of epiglottis with 2 lymph nodes, Stage 4b - HPV negative. Completed treatment end of November 2013 – 35 rads, weekly cisplatin (6 total), no surgery. Did our research and 3 consults before treatment. Walter Reed suggested surgery to remove epiglottis along with the tumor and put in a temporary trachea tube, then chemo and rads. Was told that the rads would destroy epiglottis and that is why they would remove it. Local ENT suggested chemo and rads, no surgery. Local radiologist was furious that we were told rads would destroy epiglottis; said they were trying to save it, not destroy it. Went with local ENT, radiologist and oncologist. Were shocked with the differing opinions of treatment! Here we are, almost 2 years later, NED. Second PET scan will be in November. Issues with dry mouth and taste, some swallowing/slight choking issues, occasional flair ups of the radiation site. Every day is a gift. Checking in July 28, 2017 Coming up on 4 years, doing well. Trying to encourage hubby to retire so we can travel in our motorhome....Donfoo, maybe our paths will cross on the road or in a campground... Checking in, March 11, 2019. Hubby NED as of November 2018 PET scan. The 5 year mark! YAY!!!! Still having swallow issues. Doc did throat stretching and Botox in spring of 2018, but the botox did not work well which caused more swallow issues. Once the Botox wore off after a few months, things got a little better. Life is great! Hubby just retired and we are getting ready to cruise the USA in our new motorhome. Positive thoughts and prayers to all.

CivilMatt, Oregon, enrolled October 22, 2012. DX December 23, 2011 w/Stage IVa, SCC, BOT, HPV+ & l lymph node on left side of neck (surgery, radiation & Erbitux). 660 days post, lost 43 lbs, gained 20 lbs, saliva, dry mouth and taste challenged. I am on the standard H&N plan seeking maximum recovery. I see life differently now, wonder and tragedy are but a heartbeat away. My H&N friends help keep me grounded. You are all special in your own way. Time is precious. Checked in January 19, 2013. Check in January 12, 2014, Check in July 13, 2015. Checking in Jan 1. 2016 All is nice in my new-normal world, eating is a cautious and very enjoyable. Trying very hard to maintain a strong immune system. Lots to do. Checking in Jan 30, 2017, coming up on 5 years in March. That is a number I have been waiting for. Thank you to H&N members for all you do. Checking in January 1, 2018, life is good, but it challenges me daily. The cancer which brought me here is gone, but other bad things are out there. Checking in on June 1, 2019. I am still here and kicking with 7y 2m 8d (post) under my belt on my cancer. I really wanted to go and have my tongue “looked at” by my ENT, but I have not. I don’t think there is truly anything wrong, but I do have a heck of a time trying to keep my tongue clean. I brush with 3d tooth paste, rinse with bubble gum mouthwash and use a full glass of the good ole soda and salt mixture to rinse and gargle till I am blue-in-the-face, trying to get my tongue clean. I like to snack on popcorn in the evening and it really messes up my tongue. By the way, I have liked popcorn since (almost) the start of my post cancer time. My life in Oregon is pretty good. I am retired now and working on home projects and such. I would have met Phrannie51 last summer, but she did not call me and say she was in town. Woe is me, maybe next time we will get together. Everyone, please take care. Checking in January 23, 2021, I am still above ground, but I sometimes wonder about my life. I do have issues which drag me down, but cancer is not one of them. I will talk to you later. On December 4, 2021 CM says, “I am about to go online with our revised Roll Call and I hope the members like it. I will tell more later, when I get brave enough to talk.

CJK from Pennsylvania Joined June 5, 2017 Hello. I am a head and neck cancer survivor from Pennsylvania and I just joined this forum. I was diagnosed with Stage IV squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+) in June 2016. The primary tumor was in the right tonsil and I had metastases to 15 lymph nodes in my right neck. I had a neck dissection to remove 41 lymph nodes in July followed by robotic surgery to remove my tumor along with my left tonsil and a retropharyngeal lymph node in the back of my mouth. The surgeries were successful but, during the neck dissection, they found that one of the lymph nodes was attached to the accessory nerve to my trapezius muscle. They cut the nerve and did a nerve graft using a sensory nerve to my ear area, which helped to return some functionality to my shoulder but also resulted in extensive and prolonged numbness in the side of my face/neck. In Sep/Oct 2016, I had 7 weeks of chemoradiation (35 radiation treatments and weekly Cisplatin). During treatment, they saw another lump at the tail of my parotid gland so used a very high dose of radiation to the area. Overall, I recovered fairly quickly from the treatments other than pain from my shoulder and residual pain around my right jaw where the high dose of radiation was supplied. My 6-month post-treatment scan was clear, although the lump on my parotid gland is still present but not active cancer according to the PET scan. I would be happy to provide more info on my experience or thoughts on treatment options and I would welcome any insights from others who had a nerve graft to their trapezius muscle or very high doses of radiation to the jaw area with residual effects. My best wishes go to all of you as you continue your fight and I look forward to contributing to the forum.

CLRRN, from Maryland, joined forum June 2010, enrolled July 13, 2010. Reporting for partner Mike. DX’d SCC left tonsillar basaloid. Checked in August 7, 2011. MIA and checked back in June 3, 2013. Reported good news…some ailments but NED. Checking in Jan 8, 2016, I joined when my partner Mike was dx w/Stage IV, SCC tonsil in 2010. He remained NED and doing great. He had all his teeth extracted (what he had left) in 2014 and got full dentures. Aside from his hoarseness and has no complaints. Forever grateful to everyone for the support to me and all the helpful hints/suggestions to allow me to be a better caretaker.

Connieprice1 (?) Enrolled Nov 8, 2015 Stage IV BOT with 2 lymph nodes involved HPV+ Completed Chemo & 35 Radiation treatment 4/2011. So far so good! Please add to survivor list. I was sorry to read that some of my good friends had not survived. Some I communicated with directly and some I always read their posts. To: Barefoot Bob, Delnative, Jim and I, luv4lacrosse, To be Golden, Wolfen and Trinks May you All Rest in Peace and that Heaven is Everything we dream it to be. To Everyone that has lost a loved one here, I pray for the caretakers and families.

Corleone, from Ontario, Canada. Joined forum July 2012, enrolled February 1, 2013. DX’d NPC Stage III on June 14, 2012. Treatment completed December 1, 2012. Check-in July 10, 2015, on 14-Jun-2012 ,Last checkup May 2015, complete remission. Corleone: I made Cancer an offer it can’t refuse

Crazymom, (?) Checking in Sep 8, 2015 I had left tonsil and two left lymph nodes. I have been cancer free for 3.5 years. I am doing well and enjoying life. Checking in March 11, 2017. Five years Out Just checking in...FEb 2017 got my CT scan and all is good. I am feeling good and am happy. Had to start on thyroid medication because of fatigue and hyper thyroidism, but now seem to have that under control and feel good.

CSmiley, from Arizona. enrolled April 30,2017 Diagnosed 3 February, 2017 w/ Stage III SCC (moderately differentiated) BOT (HPV-) Pre Surgery Staging - T1N1M0. One tumor, BOT, left side/center, 2 cm in diameter. Initially... one lymph node found, region III/IV, 2 cm, & necrotic. Surgery completed on April 12, 2017: radical, bilateral neck dissection and partial glossectomy. Post op pathology report indicates negative (good) margins from the tumor removal. 84 lymph nodes removed, 3 tested positive (left side) for SCC (no extranodal extension). Post Surgery Staging - Stage IVa (T1N2bM0). Follow-up treatment (begins 15 May, 2017). Chemotherapy (Cisplatin) 6 treatments (once a week for 6 weeks). Radiation, 30 treatments (5 treatments a week for 6 weeks). So far, lymphedema is really bad. Tongue has healed well, but I have lost the ability to enunciate my words and eat without biting myself and/or loosing my food within my mouth.I am active duty military (17 years) (United States Air Force). I'm more than happy to share with others my experience. Checking in January 27, 2018, Life is getting back to normal. I am seeing a physical therapist twice a week for scar tissue and lymphatic message. I also recently began using a Tactile Medical lymphedema message unit designed for the head and neck. The battle against dry mouth and neck fibrosis is on-going. The ringing in my ears has lessened, but not yet completely gone. I am still an active participant in a medical drug trial, which requires me to receive a single round of chemo every three months. The chemo has a way of taking me back to when I was at my worst. My most recent scan came back clean. I am disease free as of now. I am still pending a medical review in the military. I do not know yet if I will be forced to medically retire or continue my pursuit towards my twenty-year goal. Good luck, and God Bless!

Cureitall66, (caregiver to husband) from Michigan. Joined 12-2012, enrolled loved one on October 23, 2012. DX’d on August 21, 2012 w/Stage IV, SCC, BOT, HPV=, 1 lymph node n left side of nect. Still undergoing treatment at time of enrollment. Tx ended Nov 2012 No surgery, Chemo (Carboplatin & Paclitaxel) once wk for 7 wks, Radiation 5 days wk for 7 wks Reported back 12-30-2013 that NED after treatment. Doing well w/minor issues. Checking in July 20,2015 Latest check up 07/16/2015 – NED. Back to Golfing and riding his Harley! Enjoying Life! Checking in November 16, 2017 Hi All! Sorry not on here much anymore. Wanted to let you know we just met his 5 year mark this month and was told he is now considered cured! Life has been very good for us. We've done a great deal of riding the Harley this summer and when he's not riding, he's on the golf course! I wish you all the best! Checking in February 28, 2019 It has been 7 yrs NED! He still continues to get check-ups just for peace of mind. He is doing great and there is nothing that stops him these days. We enjoy riding the Harley, he loves to golf, and we are currently buying a different home and he's doing most of the remodeling. Life is good. I'm sorry we are not on here much anymore. I am currently preparing for RN nursing clinical at the age of 53, my prerequisite are done after 4 yrs. of school. We're super excited for this next adventure. Love you guys!

Curlyn (?) Enrolled February 12, 2018, Hi All, I joined Sept 11, 2017. Stage lll, HPV+, BOT primary (less than .19") with mets to lymph nodes in neck. Surgery and chemoradiation. After a year of watching had the neck surgery, BOT surgery a month later, 8 wks later the chemoradiation. 13 wks since treatment. Worst 17 months of my life! Will life get better? Who knows, I am not going to sit around to find out because enough time has been wasted. Going to meet it head on. Best of luck to all of you!

Cwcad (?) Joined forum November 2009, enrolled January 31, 2010, state unknown, checked in 01-31-2010, DX’d Stage IV BOT in February 2007. MIA list and checked back in on February 10, 2013. Neck spasms irritating, but not bothersome. Had heart bypass surgery. Doing well.

6Cyn (?) caregiver for Husband Enrolled Aug 7, 2015 He was diagnosed in August 2013 with stage IV Head and Neck cancer, left tonsil and three lymph nodes on same side. 35 rad treatments and 3 cisplatin’s did the trick. This site is a wonderful support and full of information. Thanks to all His words, "Hold on tight and do the fight!"

Section 4 of 9

ROLL CALL 2021 – First Posting December 9, 2021

H&N MEMBERS Grandmax4 - Laralyn

Grandmax4, from Ohio. Enrolled January 19, 2013. DX’s September 2011, November 2,2011~~de Vinci robotic full neck dissection to remove a mass on my epiglottis . SCC and very blessed that the cancer had not invaded my lymph nodes. No chemo or radiation required. All is well and can eat anything. Checking in July 20, 2015 Forever Grateful. Months of speech therapy, feeding tube, and determination to beat this monster has brought me where I am today~~~~~and my God…..July 28 is my 4 year check-up, even though I think I'm fine, there's always that nagging little doubt. Bless you all .Checking in Dec 10, 2016, Checking in~~~5 years, 1 month, 8days..cancer free, loving life~~~declared cured, I'm always afraid to say that, there is, and always will be, the little tinge of fear. Merry Christmas everyone and may 2017 be a fabulous New Year! Checking in January 9, 2018. Happy to see so many familiar faces and names, Best wishes for a wonderful, healthy 2018. Checking in February 13, 2019 “Still kicking, just not as high”. Doing good, getting older, enjoying retirement, still loving my 3 boys To all that helped me down the path, thank you to all traveling the path, keep going, stay strong. God Bless you all!

Grandmudder, from BC Canada caregiver to Husband with Stage IVa finished treatment August 2014 Still NED :)

Greg53, from Missouri, DX SCC right tonsil, enrolled 07-20-2010. Checked in January 21, 2013. Almost 3 years out and doing well. Checking in Jan 19, 2014 Dang near 4 years out and doing great. My best to everyone! Check in July 14, 2015, This thread was always one of my favorites - great way to see how old friends are doing - Thanks CivilMatt and Skiffin-16 and RIP HAWVET. Positive thoughts and Good Mojo to everyone!

Greg, from Pennsylvania. Enrolled January 21, 2013. DX’d SCC base of tongue w/mets to lymph nodes stage IV. NED in November 2010. Returning back to work soon.

Guzzle, from Liverpool, United Kingdom. Enrolled Aug 7, 2015 Stage 4 Tonsil. 16 months out all good so far touch wood. Checking in February 28, 2019 Doing well. 5 years in June. I'll never forget the support I got here Just walked last 120 miles of El Camino. In contact with many fellow warriors and had the privilege to meet a few. YNWA X,GARY . Checking in August 21, 2019 Checking in. Past 5 years. All good so far! 

Gypsy28, from Maine. Enrolled November 20, 2017 MA. Dx March 2016 salivary gland cancer. Parotid gland. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Intermediate grade. Had surgery March 2016 finished rads Aug 2016. Follow up care is MRI every six months. Ned so far. Surviving today. Hope for tomorrow.

Hard12Find (UL). August 2012 stage IVa SCC Rt tonsil, lymph nodes and left tonsil. Chemo and Radiation. Actually feeling /doing well although have not been able to see a doctor for quite some time, after losing insurance. I still have difficulties swallowing, and assume I always will, but with the help of milk, I can eat just about anything I put my mind to, and my taste buds are back to near normal, or new normal. Had significant hearing loss and tinnitus, from Cisplatin, still do. Took on a new career as an over the road long haul truck driver, and have enjoyed seeing family and friends, old and new places. I drive with my dog Charlie, and if you are inclined to follow our adventures, he has his own Facebook page...search for Charlie the truck driving dog....I don't come here as often as I used to, and I lurk more than post, but have great appreciation for those who still provide support for the newbies...I treasure all of my CSN friends, and pray for all those afflicted by this beast....May god bless us all. Check in July 13, 2015. Checking in Feb. 18, 2017 still here, pretty much the same as 2015. Checking in Dec 12, 2019, Sorry don't come by here much, anymore, but been thinking about all the great people on here. Diagnosed Aug 2013, with stg 4A SCC on rt tonsil, metastasized to left tonsil and nodes. Radiation and chemo with cisplatin. feeding tube, but still went from 220 lbs to 130, extremely nausea throughout treatment, and sore throat and occasional thrush, from radiation. As of 2019, have severe tinnitus in both eats, lack of saliva, and dysphagia. The good news is I am still here, and my taste are normal, and I can eat most anything as long as i have whole milk to chase it with. good to see some familiar names on the list. Hang in there new folks, it can be beat, but it’s a battle that’s for sure. Love you all and may god bless us all.

Hawk711, from California. Enrolled January 1, 2012, diagnosed SCC BOT January 2010 & July 2011. Checked in January 13, 2013. Still NED but having ORN issues, left side of jaw, Since then had jaw replaced on left side due to ORN. (Thank you Rads) , but enjoying every day. Radiation, the gift that keep on giving! Enjoy every day without the dreaded "c". All the best in 2014 to us all. Checking in July 31, 2015 Anyway, as of today I am 5 years 4 months NED, that's right I said NED !!!!! Hope all of your folks are finding your new normal a good place to be. I am. Just gave my daughter away on her wedding day, so I'm glad i am here to do it. All the best.

HAWVET(OM), from Hawaii. Joined forum April 2006, enrolled in January 2008. DX’d NPC in January 1998. Treatment completed June 1998 and was NED two years later. Am still around 13 years later and look forward for year 2014. I have been fortunate to be around and now into my 16th year, but the after effects of the treatment has impacted on my life style.  My saliva is just about gone and taste about 50-60 percent.  When added to my COPD and aspiration problems, it would appear I would not enjoy life. Not true. I try to maintain a positive attitude and enjoy each moment. It has not stopped me from going to Las Vegas. I was fortunate to have made the military a career so my medical bills are fully covered when combined with Medicare. Aloha to all (January 12, 2014).

Heather_Lynn, from Iowa. Enrolled February 26, 2016. I was diagnosed with Olfactory Neuroblastoma 1/12/16 after surgery to remove what was thought to be a polyp obstructing my right nostril. I had a second surgery 2/4/16 to remove remaining tumor. It was Grade II, so while my neck was clear on PET scan I am starting 31 IMRT radiation treatments scheduled on 3/10/16 to just the skull base/sinus area. I'm looking for any information on side effects during and after radiation for this type of radiation/cancer.

hlrowe (UL, UDx). Enrolled February 14,, 2019 TX finished June 2012 35 rad 6 cisplatin.

HobbsDoggy, from Southern Indiana. Joined forum February 2013, enrolled February 10, 2013. DX’d in July 2012, Stage IV neck w/one lymph node and unknown primary. Treatment completed in Dec 2012 and still battling side effects. Pet scan scheduled for March 3rd.

HONDO, from Louisiana. joined forum April 2009, enrolled January 31, 2010. DX NPC in November 2002. Have had lots of problems w/radiation and side effects almost 8 years later. Lost voice and ability to eat, Live in pain, but still alive and working full time. Also works on line with Ministry of Restoring Gods. Saliva glands started to work, but can’t swallow. Updated 02-01-2013 & 12-12-2013. 2002: First treatment for NPC Did just radiation 180 rad once a day. 2004: Recurring NPC in the same place Did 120 rad twice a day and Chemo. 2006: Recurring NPC again same area, was giving 6 to 12 mounts to live. 2015: Still alive no sign of recurring NPC, living with some very bad radiation side effects and Norcoses to the soft palate, but still alive and thanking God for everyday one day at a time. On Vacation in the tropical Island of Utila Honduras. Check in Jan 13, 2014, July 11, 2015. Checking in oct 30, 2015 I made it back for the Island a few months ago, planning to spend Christmas and New Years with the wife and family then head back early in January. Checking in January 22, 2016, I am like a Duracell; I just keep going and going and going. Back visiting my brother in Honduras, eating as much raw fresh foods as possible to stay healthy. God has been so good in providing His blessings every day and keeping me alive. Check in Aug. 13, 2016, Still here and still alive, came down with some Pneumonia again but that is due to not being able to swallow. Feeling like crap but that is all part of live. Check in November 19, 2016 doing as good as possible for all the problems I live with. God has been so good to me; He provides daily all my needs. Checking in Dec 31, 2016. Oh oh last day to check in, T** (Hondo) or whatever you want to call me. I am still here but not doing the best because of long term side effects of radiation treatment, but I am still by God grace still alive. 

hwt from Missouri. 01/2011 cancer of lower left mandible with positive lymph nodes. Surgery, rads, Cisplatin. Recurrences 02/2013 around left carotid and 04/2014 around right carotid. Treated for both with SBRT at Mayo Clinic and additional chemo Taxol/Erbitux) 9/2014 the titanium placed in 2011 had to come out and 02/2015 the fibula put in in 2011 had to come out. Resulting fistula has not healed yet. Surgery to rough up and hopefully will close yet to be scheduled. My husband, my love and caregiver, had a stroke 10/2014 and spassed away May 2015 so it has been difficult to regain strength. My last scan was clean and I am due for another. Still fighting the fight with love and support of family. Have received great support here at CSN. Check in Jan 13, 2014 , July 11, 2015. Checking in Jan 13, 2016, Thankful for NED on most recent scan.

IAmStrong (?). Enrolled January 28, 2016. I joined in Feb 2012. I am living in the Midwest. Brr!  I was declared "Cured" of stage 4 SCC of tongue, mets to neck, jugular and 2 lymph nodes. Surgery X 2, chemo...cisplatin (including overdose last treatment) and rads full board. Poor prognosis! Thanking God for each and every day! I have CKD....chronic kidney disease at 31% total kidney function and maintaining since I was in renal failure after being OD'd. Thankful for no further loss! I have a severe hearing loss from chemo as well. Yet, thanking God every day my feet touch the floor no matter how much aches or pain I have in our bitter cold winters etc. I am now dealing with some eye issues that are new and bone loss. Eating is a challenge. It depends on the varied taste I experience! lol Sweets are pretty nasty to me, yet DQ ice cream is my weakness. My favorites are fresh vegetables, raw or cooked bc of the moisture in them. Because my zero stoma is pretty active and having a bit of my tongue removed...little fragments/particles are difficult in eating. I can aspirate easily...must pay attention to this including water. Have learned what works for me! Coconut oil is my BFF I even put it in my mouth and it makes it feel the most "normal" of all! And is a natural antibiotic as well. Biotene products no longer work for me, as they had changed their formula and it burns my mouth like fire. I do have trigeminal nerve pain and facial and floor of mouth spasming and that is handled medically as well. I am Grateful! I get cold very easily ever since, and need to move closer to the equator! lol  Blessings to All!

Irishgypsie, from New York, Joined forum May 2010, enrolled on July 11, 2010. DX SCC’d right tonsil, Posted January 6, 2014 that “Life is Good”. Check in Jan 25, 2015 Present and accounted for! :)

Its, from Michigan. Enrolled January 2, 2013. DX’d October 2012 Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma right submandibular gland. Neck dissection to remove gland, 30 lymph nodes, and some local muscle. Still in radiation as of enrollment date. Best wishes! jackflash22, from England. Enrolled Aug 7, 2015 es, 35 radiotherapy sessions, Throat completely closed from radiation, had tube for 18 months. Opened enough to take liquid food. 100% better than tube food.removal of rare tumor in small bowel, in remission, still on two monthly scopes and throat dilations. clear of small bowel cancer March 2015, taste buds recovered, energy levels normal, not gaining or losing weight, 5 ensure2cal each day plus smoothies, yoghurts, custards, soup etc. life is looking up at present. Checking in Oct 22, 2016 I'm still here. Small i'ntestine cancer 2015 neuroendoctrine not related to throat. Had surgery. Follow up scan next January. Small cancer on eyelid related to sun. Removed and reconstructed. Over all health good. I'm now on check ups three months apart. Was on monthly, then two monthly now three ..progressing. lost partner 2015 while ill with bowel cancer. Was going downhill until son bought me a miniature dachshund puppy. Turned my life around he's adorable and relies on me and loves me to bits and me him. Didn't know I could love something so much. I get him to take me for two or three walks a day. We cozy up in my chair. Don't get much spare time any more it's like having a baby all over again. Life is good. Checking in june 24, 2017 still here, Sometimes I completely forget I’m a cancer survivor. Life is good... Checking in February 7, 2020, Hi all haven t been on for a while but I'm still here Recovered well...still have throat dilations to keep my throat open. Got pneumonia last January ...found I had a leak into my lung , swallowing. Refusing to go on a feeding tube. I hated it the first time this time it would be permanent. Have been , and healthy...touch wood....at present. I’m happy, enjoy life...I walk with my little dog, spend my days crafting, which I'm obsessed with. am catching up with my friends news on here. I was saddened and shocked to hear phrannie51 had lost her brave fight. She helped me a lot in 2013 onwards. RIP phrannie51

janich (?) Enrolled Aug. 29, 2016, I am a new member, Aug. 2016. Diagnosed with squamous cell cancer of right maxilla and had surgery Jan. 2014 to remove 1/4 of mouth and soft/hard palate on right side. 26 lymph nodes removed March 2014. Recurrence May 2014. Radiation, chemo, and 2 hospitalizations from June thru Oct. Had feeding tube due to severe mucositis for 19 months, June 2014 to Jan. 2016. Final obturator Jan. 2016, have been on soft diet since then. Still dealing with some mouth pain and taking opioids. I'd like to talk to others who have an obturator. I'm a Christian, and I'm grateful to God for carrying me through this hard time and for all the support from friends and family. I'm writing a book about my experience.

jbrowne8813 from Alabama. Enrolled July 30, 2015 Type of Cancer: Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the tongue 

jcb2222 from Pennsylvania. Enrolled January 29, 2016 I'm a three year stage three survivor of cancer in the left lymph gland in my neck. I had 35 radiation treatments and 7 weeks of chemotherapy. I feel fortunate that I gave in to my wife’s insistence that I allow an insurance wellness nurse to come out for a home exam. I have no problems seeing a doctor for an illness but at the time I didn't see the need to see one. During the examination she felt a slight abnormality in the left side of my neck and suggested that I see my PCP. My PCP was highly impressed with her diagnostic ability because it was quite a subtle thing and he intern sent me to a ENT for a better exam. That stated my process. I'm glad to be a member of the group and wished that I would have joined sooner.

Jcortney from Texas. Checking in Feb 1, 2014 Doing well. SQ BOT Stage 4. Started treatment 2/1/13. My 1 year anniversary is today.

JC F (?) Enrolled July 26, 2015 Diagnosed May 2014 Stage IV SCC BOT HPV 16+. Large primary with large right side neck lymph node involvement. Three seven hour marathon cisplatin sessions with 35 rads finished Aug. 20 last summer. Coming up NED so far which is good. Taste and saliva issues still suck which is not so good. Went through the entire process by myself...very difficult...have had to maintain warrior status…

J4mie from Illinois. Joined forum 09-2013, enrolled 12-17-2013. DX’d State IV, left tonsil, tonsillectomy & 29 nodes removed 09-06-2013. Treatment completed 11-20-2013 and due to see Oncologist on 12-19-2013. Checking in Jan 14 2014 recovering slowly, but noticing slight improvements each day.

Jeffw69 (?) Enrolled Aug 20, 2016, Diagnosed march 15 with BOT stage IV, went through 39 rads and 6 chemo, I finished my treatments June 19 of 2015,got my NED September of 2015.

Jeff2159 (?) checking in Feb 4, 2014 I have battled tongue cancer for almost 20 yrs (10 surgeries mostly outpatient except 2) and never smoked or chewed. 3 surgeries from Dec 2011 to Jan 2012 led me to explore radiation and had PET scan which showed my mouth clean but my left kidney was cancerous. Adios to left kidney (and thought stage 1) March 7 but stage 3, 1 lymph node cancerous, with 55% element of sarcomitoid so the grade was 4. Also mets to lungs April 2012 and 2 rounds of sutent worked miracles to irradiate 95% of them. Radiation and chemo Jan 2013 and last scan 1-6-14 showed NED for head and neck and the few lung nodules have shrunk due to avastin. Update to my crazy life, the original mets to lungs were from my kidney and disappeared with sutent in June 2012. Latest scans last 6 months have shown mets enlarging well at first of the year I blew a hole in my lung, had surgery and had 2 tumors removed, one of them caused the hole in my lung and they are squamous cell thus from my tongue cancer. Just started Erbitux today 2-4-14

Jennfer39, from Ohio. Joined forum November 2011, enrolled March 7, 2013, DX’d on October 7, 2011 w/left SCC left tonsil HPV, met to3 lymph nodes. Tonsillectomy and feeding port. Treatment completed December 30, 2011. Two pets since (last on October 25, 2012) and NED.

JGE (?) checked in 03-17-2010. 2008, BOT w/2 nodes. Had chemo and rads. All scans cleared, return to work 01 2009. Finally checked back in January 3, 2013. Welcome back. Enjoyed your post J

Jimbo55, from Chicago working in Bangkok Thailand, joined forum June 2010, enrolled March 18, 2013. DX’d SCC BOT in May 2010. MIA in 2012 and checked back in March 18, 2013 fresh off a clean PET/CT scan. Checking in Nov 11, 2015 Five years plus and I keep on keeping on. A few minor after effects: taking thyroid meds, a little dry mouth, the voice is a somewhat hoarse at times, but all in all, absolutely nothing to complain about. Life is good. Checking in April 26, 2021 Coming up on 11 years, the voice is a bit sketchy at times, but otherwise no complaints.

Jim & I, Florida. I joined H&N forum in May enrolled August 7, 2011. Checked in January 20, 2013 w/more info. Caretaker of husband Jim, dx’d w/base of tongue, stage IV and two lymph nodes in April 2011. Finished treatment in August. Three months later spread to both lungs. Informed in September 2012 that less than a year. Still believe in miracles. Adding my prayers and best wishes. Reported on 12-13-2013 that cancer in bones and left jaw. Appt with oncologist on 01-12-2014. Best wishes. Update Husband Jim diagnosed with stage four base of tongue in May 2011. 35 Rads and Cisplatin. Mets to lungs 3 months after treatment ended. Lost battle on Good Friday 2014. Mother diagnosed with lung cancer Oct. 2014, mets to eye April 2015 25 Rads on eye. Lung Rads to begin in a week to treat tumor rubbing vessel and causing blood loss. Next to my faith this site is my lifeline. Check in July 14, 2015. Bless You.

Jkinobay (OM), Arizona & Mexico, enrolled April 21, 2009. DX’d HPV16 positive lymph nodes in 2007, checked in July 27, 2010. Finally checked back in on February 28, 2012. First person to check in-year 2013 on January 2, 2013 and reached the 5 ½ years and still NED. Checking in Jan 26,2017. Jkinobay here. All most 10 years and doing great. Still NED. May, 2017 will be 10 years post diagnosis. Have come to really appreciate my "NEW NORMAL" and all that comes with it. Can't say enough good things about the great, caring folks here at the CSN/HNC Board and how tremendous a resource they have been to so many. Keep on a keep'in on. Take care. JK…. Checking in November 20, 2019. Thirteen Years NED and going strong. ORIGINAL DIAGNOSIS SCC IN A LYMPH NODE, PRIMARY IN A TONSIL. SURGERY FOR BOTH. SEVEN WEEKS OF CISPLATIN AND DAILY IMRT. Still living in Mexico. Still fishing on the Sea of Cortez. Still loving life. Hard to believe it's been thirteen years already. My best wishes to everyone

Jms297 (?) enrolled May 24, 2017, I was diagnosed on January 6 after suffering a mini stroke. While doing test of carotid arteries they noticed a mass on one of my lymph node. Primary site was my right tonsil so I had a neck dissection on Feb. 28 and TORS surgery on March 3 to remove the tonsil, part of soft palate and rear tongue. 30 lymph nodes were removed with 4 showing positive but none of the 4 were out of the margins. I am now doing radiation treatments and today was my 9th one so only 21 left. No chemo. 

Joannaw81 (Caregiver to my mom) from New Jersey. Enrolled July 17, 2015 Diagnosed in Oct. of 2010, stage 3 tonsil and later tongue twice, neck dissection on both sides and radiation. 3 recurrences with last surgery on 3/1/12. NED for 3 years and 5 months which Ii thank God for. THIS SITE AND ALL OF U HELPED ME AND MY MOM GET THROUGH THIS. GOD BLESS U ALL. Checking in February 12, 2019 Hi all, My mom diagnosed in 2010 with stage IV tonsil. 3 local reoccurrences between 2011 and 2012- she will be 7 years cancer free on 3/2/19. Thank you all for being here.... Checking in on May 10, 2019. Hi Guys, with upcoming Mother's Day decided to check in to honor my mom- survivor- NED for 7 years and 2 months, so grateful for that. Very hard to believe after all the recurrences that she had...for everyone out there, I know it’s hard, I know it’s painful however keep fighting, don’t give up.

Joe14 from New York. Joined forum May 2010, enrolled July 22, 2010. DX’d w/SCC unknown primary in April 2010. Left neck dissection & tonsillectomy. One tumor positive of 40 taken. MIA in 2012 and checked back in on March 13, 2013. Checking in Sep 4, 2015 Was diagnosed in April of 2010 and just passed the 5 year mark with an all clear a few months back. I used to be a regular around here and this board really meant the world to me. Thought I'd check in and wish everyone the best.

Johnsonbl (?) fom Iowa Enrolled July 11, 2017, Dx’d as Stage 4 (AJCC 7th Edition)/Stage 1 (AJCC 8th Edition) BOT HPV+. Tonsillectomy, neck dissection, TORS surgery, 6 weeks of radiation 60gy. Just passed the 2 year anniversary of my surgery...will be 2 years out from radiation in April. Doing well aside from some stupid side effects such as a beat up thyroid, a stiff neck and worry about every weird ache and pain.  

Josh r. (?) checking in June 17, 2015, SCC, Stage IV throat 1991 . joined CSN 2010. "Jimmy V's"; "Never, never, never, never give up!" When I returned to teaching on January 4, 1992 I put his quote above my classroom door so when leaving the room it was impossible to miss. I'd like to think that being there for the last sixteen years of my teaching career it gave someone hope as much for them as it did for me.

Jthornsbury from Texas, checking in Jan 20, 2014 ...DX Jan '13 SCC Tonsil T2 2Nb M0...treatment of six weeks (32 rad treatment) radiation at MDA Houston complete April 19 2013...since then all clear scans and side effects improving! Next scan in March, MD pleased with progress...and we go from there! Blessings to all...checking in July 18, 2015 Living Large in the Lone Star State Frist all clear May 2013 two months after my 50th birthday. All Clear with upcoming 2 year and two month scan on July 20th...litte dry mouth. most taste is back. ran and completed my first 13.1 half in March right before my 52th birthday and planning to run the next one in November! Plan is to run two 13.1 a year till I'm 100! :) I am living each day grateful and thankful! Checking in January 23, 2016 Still doing great as we enter another year to live every day to the fullest...have been put on yearly scans/appointments and still going to UT MD Anderson in Houston. Continue to run with several 5k/10k/15k under the belt and another 13.1 in April. Next scan and checkup (3 year & 3 months) is scheduled for late July. This month it will be three years since DX. So thankful for all the encouragement and advice from the many other warriors on this page. I will always be grateful for each who gave encouragement and practical advice over the past three years. Have not been on lately as life with two teenagers has been crazy but try to drop in on a regular basis. 

jtl, from Florida, Enrolled Sep. 1, 2016 It has been 5 years and so far so good. Still getting CT chest scans which I recommend for everyone. I had a very small spot on my lung that was deemed insignificant but a follow up this fall is in the cards. I also had bladder cancer which I don't think was related to this. It was treated and not problems since. I have zero side effects and have full taste and saliva. I had the traditional rads and the Erbitux when it was hardly heard of. I have zero side effects and have full taste and saliva. I was thinking in my life of 70 years I have had melanoma (50 years ago), prostate cancer 15 years ago, scchn 5 years ago, and bladder cancer a year ago. I would say that is enough for this life. Take care and be well. Checking in February 9, 2018, It has been 6 1/2 years since I finished my last RT for throat cancer. It was stage 3 and my treatment was RT and Erbitux. My only side affects to date is an occasional neck cramp. So all is good. Best wishes to all of you.

Kapital from California. Enrolled April 22, 2017, Husband diagnosed, age 60, with with stage IV tonsil cancer, HPV and P16+. First noticed a lump in left neck Sept 2015. Needle aspiration negative, told it was a Bronchial Cleft Cyst. Waited until Nov to have it removed. Surgeon said it was not CA post op. Path report came back SCC, CT1N2B, P16+ with unknown primary. Laparoscopy with tonsillectomy and multiple bx done Dec 2015, showing left tonsil CA. Treatment started Jan 2016 = 3 rounds of Carboplatin with 6 1/2 weeks of IMRT radiation (6600 cGy). No PEG, lost 75 lbs, regained 20lb at 2 years out. Happy to be NED at 2 year mark - March 2017. Saliva at about 50% and taste 60%, carefull with swallowing - with lots of moisture/liquids available, able to eat pretty much anything . Otherwise, doing amazingly well, living life to the fullest, taking each day as the gift that it is. 

Katenorwood from Minnesota. Enrolled January 17, 2014 Dx'd w/adenoid cystic carcinoma Nov. 2011. Neck dissection of large saliva gland on right side w/7 lymph nodes taken. (front of neck-cut made from right to left)  Rads. done Jan. 2012. Wedge re-sect of right lung done Dec. 2012. Palliative care presently for pain. Enjoying every single day ! Thank you for doing this ! We all appreciate the effort and enjoy seeing the survivors listed. And of course will always remember those that have passed on. Bless you !  Checking in Nov 7, 2015 Lungs are kicking my butt, and no tx to match for a fix. But am very hopeful and looking ahead to more research being done for all of us with any kind of H/N dx. I look through the above list and am amazed at the strength of the folks listed. I am saddened to see members listed that have moved on to the next adventure. I am proud to add my name to this list of survivors and warriors.  Thank you for continuing this very important task of giving us a voice !  

Kenny from Louisiana. Enrolled Oct 3, 2016 Dx Stage II NPC SCC Sep 2015. Treatment with rads (70 gy) + adjutant cisplatin + 5FU (2 cycles). Currently NED (Oct 2016). God is good, stay healthy and take a different outlook in life. This forum keeps me going.

KB56 from Texas. Joined 04-2013, enrolled 12-29-2013. DX’d cancer right tonsil on April 1, 2013. Tonsillectomy. Treatment completed 06-11-2013. Clean PET scan and NED CATscan just before Xmas. Checking I May 22, 2014 my one year finishing treatment is June 11, 2014. Doing well so far and feeling great.  A few little side effects but nothing that slows me done (much) and compromised saliva is the biggest issue but not a show stopper. I have my next scan in August and I know it will be good:) All the best. Checking in July 21, 2015 Last CT SCAN and Doctor visit was June 2015 and all NED! A new grandfather (the first for us) and a very proud grandfather to my new granddaughter. Checking in Dec 13, 2016, It's hard to believe it's already been 3.5 years since I finished treatment and so far so good. The side effects are now minimal (but still a few but nothing I can't live with and enjoying life to the fullest).   Saliva has recovered for the most part which was one of the biggest issues at first but the human body is a pretty amazing creation. Once you stop beating up on it with radiation and chemo, it slowly but surely, tries to get back to "normal".   The whole experience was a life changing one for sure but i hope i am a better person than i was before all this started. I try and be more patient, more tolerant of others and try not to spend time thinking about things that are out of my control (like a recurrance).     The folks on this site are wonderful people and always supportive, always willing to listen and try to help guide someone through whatever they happen to be going through at the time.        life is truly special.

kdot2003 from Georgia. Enrolled Nov 1, 2015 diagnosed with SCC Left Pyriform Sinus with mets to Lymph Nodes Stage III 9/23/15. In treatment with Rads and Cisplatin after tonsillectomy and pan endoscopy.

Kent Cass from Illinois. Enrolled July 22, 2010. DX: 11/2008 Stage-3 NPC unknown primary, Treatment 2/09-4/09 Concurrent Cisplatin and 5-FU, carrying 2 bags & pumps twice for 96 hours weeks 1 and 4. 6800 rads in a total of 20 places/session, though missed weeks 5 and 6 (was in the hospital for 4 nights). 31 full rad sessions, and the last 4 in only 5 places. Checked in January 6, 2012, still dealing with teeth issues/neck spasms, but still okay. Checked in February 2, 2013 and only little problem is neck spasms. Checking in Jan 30, 2014, still kicking Will be 5-years out in early April, and have no more visits with any cancer doctors on the schedule. Dentist is another matter. Started with 5 Crowns and a Bridge- now have 10 Crowns and the Bridge, along with 3 root canals since cancer treatment. And, Dentist has plans on two more Crowns! $14K, out of my pocket since I came back positive. Be advised. Neck spasms are a continuing issue, which I got meds for, but now they're talking Botox treatment at the U of Iowa to help with that. 59, now, and still working 9-hour shifts at a metal working factory as an Inspector, so I got no grounds for complaint. Hey- never thought I'd ever be looking forward to turning 60, but come this November... Check in July 13, 2015. Still here! Over $11K in Dental bills since treatment, with 2 root canals and 3 new Crowns, and tops of 10 teeth keep getting rebuilt. Returned to work a month after the last rad, and still working as an Inspector at a progressive metalworking factory. Believe. Checking in Jan2, 2016, 61 years old now, and will be 7 years out to the good come early-April of 2016! Update issues are that the neck spasms have gotten much worse to the point of being under the care of a Neurologist with 2 meds helping to deal with. And, dental bills are over $12K, but all was good with my last check-up. 

Kevinr51 from Michigan. Joined forum 11-2013, enrolled 12-15-2013. DX’d 09-2013 Stage IV right tonsil, 2 lymph nodes. Undergoing treatment at time of enrollment.

Kgasmart fom Florida. Enrolled October 26, 2019, age 52, diagnosed SCC HPV right base of tongue in June 2017, laser surgery at Florida Hospital/Orlando in December 2017, along with full modified radical neck dissection, they took 63 lymph nodes, cancer had spread to 1. 30 rads to right side only, began in early February 2018; lower dosage as per newer guidelines, still knocked me on my *ss. A small cut on my neck during te radiation treatment led to a cellulitis, for which I was hospitalized twice and went to the ER a third time before the antibiotics finally knocked it down for good. Fairly significant lymphedema early on, massage therapy and now at-home massage keep it under control. Two years out I still have fairly significant neck discomfort related (I think) to the dissection, and can't sing/hit the high notes like I used to. Significant scarring/major "turkey neck." Have to watch it while eating dry foods like toast, etc., very easy to aspirate crumbs etc. into my lungs, always need to drink lots of fluids while eating. But all this said, no evidence of recurrence at this point, for which I'm grateful. Lots of thanks to the folks on this forum, I've posted several questions - when you're dealing with the cancer or the side effects and the strange sensations, etc., you think you're the only one out there, and when the docs don't have all the answers you turn to forums like this. And when people here say "Yeah, that happened to me too," it's a big relief, because at least you know you're not alone!

Kiev 1996 (?). Dx mucoepidermoid carcinoma of submandibular salivary gland June 2015. Had a tumor growing for about 9 month. Waiting for surgery in July. NJ. Enrollment July 10, 2015

Kimba1505 from Pennsylvania. Joined forum April 2010, enrolled July 20, 2010. Partner DX’d Stage IV SCC left tonsil April 13, 2010. Checked back in July 20, 2010 on day treatment completed. MIA for two years and checked in June 3, 2013. Reported partner lives almost a normal life except for some after effects.

Klingels from California. Enrolled July 28, 2017 received a diagnosis of Stage IV right tonsular cancer with metastasize into right lymph nodes in April 2017. He has completed 3 rounds of Cisplatin and 35 radiation treatments. He is one week post treatment. He has a G tube and has TPN, intravenous nutrition. He currently has mouth and throat pain and thick mucus. At present, he cannot swallow. He has just resumed taking food through G tube as his stomach was not able to tolerate anything. Checking in February 15, 2018, Klingels- Kent is 7 months post treatment. He is back to work part-time. Still has feeding tube, but anticipates its removal in the next couple of weeks. He has little saliva and has developed neuropathy in his feet. Eating continues to be a challenge and he has trouble keeping weight on. Has lost about 45 pounds. Otherwise, he is enjoying the sweetness of life and being with family. Checking in September 1, 2019 Just had 2 year anniversary for cancer treatment. Back to work full-time, still 40 pounds lighter, eat slower but most everything I want. Don't like the tastes of sweets any more especially ice cream. It has no taste. Energy level is back to normal.

Kritter from Louisiana. Nasal cancer, joined July 2014, Diagnosed July 23rd, 2014 with nasal cancer. Re-diagnosed May 14, 2015 with nasal cancer again. Doing okay as I can and living day to day right now. Enjoying life

KTeacher from California. Joined forum January 2011, enrolled July 20, 2011. DX’d SCC HPV - Spindle cell variant, perineural involvement. MIA IN 2012,, checked back in March 18, 2013. Since lasat post, “C” traveled up nerves to cheek to optic nerve. Right eye removed followed by chemo & radiation. Will retire. Bless you. Checked back August 23 and rec’d surgeries at Stanford Landranger, Michigan, joined forum November 2009, enrolled February 4, 2013. DX’d in May 2009 with SCC BOT Stage III and one lymph node. I have been fighting squamous cell carcinoma since August, 2010. I live in the Central Valley, California. Most recently I was on Taxol for palliative care, it has stopped working. I will see my doctor at Stanford at the end of the month to see what can be done next. Check in July 12, 2015.

Kyskirt (?) Enrolled December 30, 2016. 3 yrs NED - Stage III larynx (rare papillary) SCC. Was told Day before Thanksgiving by Dr, I'm no longer in contention for nonoccurence. WOO HOO! Only current issues involve radiation induced muscle spasms (treated with Botox) as well nerve damage issues. Swallow comes and goes in strength, I adjust as needed. My goal was to save my voice, I did, it isn't strong or loud but I function. Thankful to be here and able to enjoy life with a few limitations.

Ladylacy (wife and caregiver to husband) from Georgia. Checking in for husband, diagnosed with laryngeal cancer in 2010. Underwent radiation, chemo, and then surgery for complete laryngectomy in 2011. NED for one year. In 2012 diagnosed with a second primary at the cervical of his esophagus. Underwent a second round of radiation and chemo, surgery ruled out. NED for 4 months. Then reoccurred at cervical of esophagus and found cancer in right lung in January 2013. Surgery ruled out and only thing offered was more chemo. Husband declined. Today he is still fighting the battle. Check in Jan 13, 2014. Checking in Aug 17, 2015 My husband lost his battle on 7/25/15. His strength and will was very strong thru out his battle.

Landranger25 (?). Enrolled January 2, 2018. All good now. Diagnosed June 2009 SCC base of tongue. 10 weeks of Cisplatin-5FU/30+ radiation sessions, no surgery. Took about a year to get back to anywhere close to what I was before. All good now. Checking in August15, 2019 Just checking in. June of 2019 was the 10 year anniversary for my SCC BOT diagnosis. So far, so good, no recurrence. Dealing with the side effects from the treatment (Chemo and rads) but they are minimal all things considered

Laralyn, California, joined forum April 2012, enrolled February 1, 2013. DX’d Stage IV SCC in left tonsil, HPV+. Radiation/Chemo completed June 1, 2012. Checking in Nov 7, 2015 Laralyn, checking in! Data is still the same but I was diagnosed with Stage IIb lung cancer in October 2015. It's SCC HPV+ but there's no way to know if it's a very delayed metastasis or a new primary. Checking in Jan. 2, 2016, I just finished the first half of front-line treatments for lung cancer. I'd like to remind all HPV+ H&N cancer patients to request lung cancer screenings even after the three year mark. Studies (and my personal experience) are starting to show there can be a longer than usual delay in HPV+ cancer appearing in the lung (whether it is metastasis or a new primary). Checking in January 17, 2018, I see my last update was when I was in first-line lung cancer treatment, most likely a new HPV+ primary since there was no recurrence at the original site (tonsil, lymph nodes, soft palate). Chemo/radiation initially worked but at the 6-month mark, there were very small nodules growing in both lungs. I went into an immunotherapy clinical trial (dual agent, Opdivo + an IDO inhibitor called epacadostat). About 3 months into the trial, CTs and then a PET scan were clear--I had what's called a complete response. It's been durable--after over a year, I'm still cancer-free. Who knows what the future holds, but I'm grateful for more time in relatively good health! Checking in November 14, 2019 Hello! Life has been busy and in some ways really challenging... but I'm hanging in there. My husband likes to say of a job he dislikes, "I'll ride it 'till it bucks me" and that's how I feel about immunotherapy. I was in the clinical trial until it ended for me (the drug company added a two year limit) and have been on monthly Opdivo since then. I'm still cancer-free, but juggling most of the immunotherapy side effects, running the range from common to rare. None have been serious enough to make me stop treatment thankfully! It's just tough trying to manage all of that and still work full time. 

Hope everyone else is doing well. :-)

Section 6 of 9

ROLL CALL 2021 – First posting December 9. 2021

H&N MEMBERS                      MrBsD - RushFan

MrBsD from Wisconsin Checked in July 15, 2015. SCC, Base of tongue and mets to a lymph node on each side, non-smoker, HPV negative. D-Day July 23, 2014! I had 33 sessions of IMRT and 8 infusions of Erbitux. It is almost one year since Diagnosis Day and I feel very blessed to have just mild lingering effects from treatment. Thank you to all of you on this site for the support! Checking in February 4, 2019 Here! It's been 4 1/2 years since my diagnosis. (BOT, never smoked or drank, HPV neg, just a genetic fluke) Just finished a refresher course for swallowing issues, some PT for neck stiffness, therapy for lymphedema and tweaking of medication for my damaged thyroid. Other than those inconveniences, I am busy and blessed! I won't ever forget the help of the CSN members during the rough spots! 

Mrs.Sarge (?) Enrolled October 24, 2012, joined forum April 2012, DX’d stage 1 SCC vocal cords, NED. Voice not the best but thankful. Checked in January 7, 2013 and voice better. Several scans and all NED. Rechecked in on January 21, 2013. Checking in Feb 1, 2014, Still doing fine! So thankful I'm still ok. It's been over 1 1/2 yrs since radiation. Checkups every 3 months. I guess no more MRIs unless they see something. I read about your journeys nearly every day, don't add much since my treatment was minimal. Hoping for each of you to win the fight! You're ALL my heroes! Check in July 13, 2015. Terrified and not knowing the future. This board has helped tremendously. I don't contribute much since my DX was Stage 1 and the treatment so much less invasive that most but I read almost daily! So far I'm NED and a thankful person!! Rooting for all of us!!!

nancytc from California. Enrolled February 11, 2018, Hi! I am excited to report that I am 10 months post treatment Right Tonsil and three lymph nodes Stage 4a, and doing reasonably well. Went through TORS robotic surgery to remove 4 tonsils and base of tongue resection, then 33 rounds of radiation and 2 mega doses of Cisplatin. Long term side effects suck, but are doable. Progress seems at a snail’s pace, but there is steady progress for sure. I love this group and check on everyone’s updates every couple of days. We are definitely a unique bunch. Love and prayers to all. Nancy. Checking in February 18, 2019 I was Stage IVa Right Tonsil with 3 lymph nodes infected, and diagnosed in Dec 2016. My treatment consisted of 33 rounds of Radiation Jan-Mar 2017 concurrently with 2 megadoses of Cisplatin (I had significant hearing loss from the Cisplatin and had to skip the final one). I does have many long term side effects like serious swallowing issues, dry spots on my eyes, digestion difficulties, but I work hard every day to work to get better, and also to have FUN and stay as healthy as humanly possible!!! I just swam with the Manta Rays last week in Kona HI, as well as enjoying dozens of amazing hikes in the lava fields. Life is VERY GOOD INDEED!!!!!

Nancy24 from Utah. Enrolled November 14, 2016, Husband, was diagnosed with HPV+ oropharyngeal (left lingual tonsil) and positive lymph node on left side of his neck in May 2016. Had 35 proton beam therapy treatments at Scripps with 7 concurrent Cisplatin in July and August 2016. First CT scan two months post-treatment was positive...primary tumor had convoluted and lymph node in neck is 9% of original size. Eating normally (with lots of sips of water) since one month after final treatment. He needs to gain 30 pounds back. 

Nanny2A (?). Enrolled Aug. 31, 2016, New member, female, age 64, diagnosed with SCC of right tonsillar pillar after small tumor, (less than 2 cm), was found in July. Stage Ib according to charts, (TIS/NO/G3). I had radical resection of the tonsillar pillar sugery on July 25 to remove the tumor. Ct-scan showed that this was the only area affected and that neck, lymph nodes and chest are clear. Biopsy taken at surgery said surgical margins were free of carcinoma but peripheral margins involved by SCC in situ, so radiation therapy is being scheduled within the month after throat is completely healed from surgery. No chemo, however. Would love to know more about radiation from real people, with information on side effects and how to best deal with them.

NeoTheron91 (?) Joined forum September 2011, enrolled March 12, 2013, DX’d Stage IV NPC in November 2011. Still surviving. Checking in Feb 5, 2014 I am still OK even though up and down of new normal life. Still surviving.

Netracer61, (?). Joined forum January 2011, enrolled on April 2, 2012. DX’d esthesioneuroblastoma in 2001. Recurrence and radical neck dissection, chemotherapy 2005. ENB recurrence, cheek, eye. Surgery and vision damaged. ENB recurrence, optic nerve, left eye, sinus w/surgery. At checking in on May 18, 2013, undergoing Proton Beam Therapy. Best Wishes. Checking in Jan 15, 2014, Still fighting! Just a few months out from round five of ENB but I am still here.

Nick770 from Ohio. Joined forum May 2012, enrolled August 30, 2013. DX’d May 2012, Stage IIIb, tonsil cancer; Metasis Sep 2012 to both lungs; Surgery/lobotomy Oct 2012 of R lower lung. Started taxetol/5FU in June 2013. Chemo had zero effect on new tumors. Currently no treatment, but possibility of new clinical trial in fall. Best wishes. Checking in May 28, 2014 orig in tonsil, mets to lungs, skin, bone, ribs, liver. still fighting 

Nidociv from Ohio. H&N member since Sept. 23, 2009. Enrolled Oct. 7, 20116 DX May 2008 Stage 4 BOT and into nodes on left side of neck. Did Chemo and Rads, No surgery then. Same swallowing and saliva problems ongoing. Getting ready to schedule my 2nd surgery for osteoradionecrosis. 1st surgery, we tried the easier way ( tissue and vessels from Leg) Now they will do a complete jaw bone replacement with bone from my lower leg. Having this done at The Cleveland Clinic. Not looking forward to this, the 1st surgery was way more than I imagined but we got to push on. Also have done 60 HBOT treatments for teeth extractions and the last oral surgeon I used, broke my jaw and I now also have a very P.I.T.A. titanium plate that has a piece coming thru my jaw. Yes there's a hole with metal sticking out. That will also be replaced in surgery. Thank God I am NED since original treatment. Good Luck everybody and God Bless.

NJMOM (?) Enrolled July 30, 2015 Husband diagnosed 7/2/2015 with Stage I Base of tongue cancer. 

NJShore (K&D) from New Jersey, joined forum November 2012, enrolled Jan 7, 2013, DX’d October 11, 2012 w/Stage IV left tonsil cancer, metastatic to left neck. 3 involved lymph nodes of which 2 are extra capsular. Still undergoing treatment as of enrollment date. Checking in July 19, 2015 it's not an easy road, but a road worth traveling -- and we were fortunate to find this awesome place and incredible people to guide us through. Checking in March 2, 2019 Well our Name or Login might be a bit misleading in the future.. we are now moving to be residents of Texas, just a tad north and east of the city. (Sorry Skiffin16, I should have noticed your recent trip a tad sooner.. I would have made you dinner! - put us on your next Texas trip list!) D is doing very well, he is seeing some side effects, bronchiectasis - the radiation treatments although helpful were a bit damaging to his lungs and he’s lost elasticity in some bronchioles at the most top part. So far just one difficult bout and hospitalization and we know how to avoid it now! Having a pulmonologist who will jump in with meds early is key!

Although I wanted him to retire early in 2012 when he was first diagnosed with stage 4 tonsil cancer, he chose to keep working. He’s retiring this year! I am sure he will still be doing something part time, but we are ready to see him enjoy life more and taking advantage of time that we thought he’d never have :) I am anxious to read up again and catch up with those that are here. For those that are new.. it’s a great place, with tons of information and people that helped us when we were against the odds. I am grateful for each and every one of you. Hugs, K&D

Noellesmom from Alabama. Joined forum August 2010.  Enrolled on April 2, 2012. DX’d inoperable advanced hypo pharyngeal and BOT cancer in April 2010. Checked in January 22 and June 21, 2013 and reported NED in November 2012. Had some after effects and separately treated for COPD and osteoporosis w/spontaneous fractures. Still unable to work. Checking in July 16. 2015, 5 years post-treatment for inoperable late stage hypo pharyngeal and base of tongue with lymph node involvement. He has developed dysautonomia likely as a result of his treatment. Checking in April 26, 2017, He has had multiple small and large strokes over the past year but is doing fairly well. He is 7 years post-treatment from hypopharyngeal cancer with a 23 percent 5 year survival rate. Main issues continue to be fatigue and blood pressure issues. Checking in December 29, 2017 Rest in Peace.

NousDefions (?) January 19, 2013. DX’d June 27, 2012 w/T2N2CM0 Stage IV SCC, primary right tonsil. Left and right lymph node involvement. Treatment completed and given NED on November 16, 2012. Went into 1st surgery weighing 225 pounds and after treatment, weighed 165 pounds (-60 lbs). Feels great and look forward to deploying. TY if you are serving in the military. I also proudly served.

NW DINO (?) Checking in Nov 5, 2015 Just celebrated my 5 year anniversary!   Have not posted in a while but do check in occasionally. Diagnosed September 10, 2010. SCC BOT HPV 16+  1 Cisplatin followed by 4 Erbitux. 35 radiation treatments. 

n2horses97  from Florida. Joined and Enrolled in February 2020. Checking in on February 3, 2020. I am caregiver to my husband who is 66 years old and dx’d with HPV16+ OPSCC T2-3N1M0, in June 2019. Began 33 proton therapy treatments July 15, 2019, with concurrent Erbitux (6) and Taxotere (5). Both "chemos" are radiosensitizers, and he had a very robust reaction. He is still getting all meals through a PEG over 5 months post-treatment. Still very raw base of tongue, throat, and is haking up blood clots from his throat. Post treatment f/u visits in Dec 2019 & Jan 2020 inconclusive for residual primary b/c of so much inflammation. Scheduled to return to MD Anderson 2/18/ for 3rd f/u. Praying daily for NED.

Okeydokey (caregiver and wife) from West Virginia. Enrolled February 5, 2019 checking in. We are still here. Checking in May 3, 2019. Hubby's update, he is not doing well, the cancer spread to lungs and bones and was diagnosed in June of 2018 as having SCC, Stage IV, 35 radiations some chemo and keytruda which has been stopped due to his having pneumonia. Still, he will never ever give up till the end. He now weighing 97 lbs. He really is an awesome warrior and continues to fighting.

Olivia from New Jersey. Checking in Feb 17, 2014 Sorry, haven't checked the site for a long time. I'm doing fine with ENB. My operation and treatment (2011 Oct-2012 Feb) at Hospital of University of Penn (HUP) in Phili PA were EXCELLENT! Found another rare cancer, medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), and had thyroidectomy in September 2013. I'm still adjusting thyroid hormone treatment now.  Thank you very much for the Roll Call.

Olybee from Washington, joined forum June 2011, enrolled July 21, 2011. DX’d state 4 HPV + tonsil cancer in April 2010. Surgery to remove tonsil and 35 lymph nodes. Checked in March 7, 2013. Still having difficulties with swallowing, dry mouth and issue with taste buds. Reported on 10-14-2013.

Ooo, from Massachusetts, joined forum March 2012, enrolled on April 2, 2012. DX’d SCC oral tongue in February 2012. Tumor removed April 2012. Checked back in March 14, 2013.

Osadmed from North Carolina. February 21, 2016, dx Aug 2015 Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of Supraglottis also found unrelated Renal Carcinoma. Surgery Sept2015 Partial Criccoid Layngectomy UPenn Oct2016 Renal TORS UPenn, 32 sessions imrt Radiation Hopkins Nov -Dec 2015 trach throughout, nasel Feeding tube post op until rad. Organic mainly vegan feeds with Integrative Chinese medicine, acupunture , massage and Chiropractic minimized side effects throughout. Thanks for all the support of my Family and Friends Returned to work Feb 15 2016 Thanks for hosting! Please contact me with questions or ACC contacts.

Osmotar from Arizona. Joined forum July 2011, enrolled January 6, 2013. DX’d Stage IVa rt tonsil, 1 lymph node. Started chemo August 2011/radiation November 2011. NED when enrolled. Checking in Aug 16, 2015 Hi all, everything going well in AZ , working full time , exercising , living life , a little dry mouth now and then but nothing drinking water doesn't take care of , each 6 month visit has been NED, Dec 31,2015 will be 4 years out of treatment. I check the site now and then , blessings to all of you. Check in July 1, 2016, I'm at 182 days until I am out of treatment 5 yrs ,my onco when I saw her in April 2016 finally used the words cancer free , my health is still good, working full time , " living the dream" as someone recently said . My next onco & ENT appointments CivilMatt. osmotar here ,I celebrated my 5yrs cancer free Dec 31, 2016 , saw my oncologist & ENT for the very last time April 2017...still living the dream , eating healthy , kicking butt in CrossFit, going to enter my first strongman competition Oct 2017. While I don't stop in very often anymore, this group was and always will be a wealth of information ...blessings...osmotar. Checking in February 6, 2019 7 years and still going strong , no remaining major complications , still experience dry mouth . Blessing to all osmotar

Pam M from Kentucky. Joined forum November 2009, enrolled January 31, 2010. DX’d SCC BOT pm October 24, 2009. Reported back on February 3, 2013 after MIA in 2012. doing well except minor post treatment issues. Checking in Feb 22,, 2014 Doing well, with some minor post treatment issues. Doing SO well when it comes to eating, I'm now on a diet. Checking in Sep 5, 2015 DX almost 6 years ago (Stage IV Base of Tongue) - December marks 5 years since last treatment (surgery). Dealing with side effects of treatment; doing well. Very glad to see so many still here. Keep fighting the good fight, everyone! Checking in Sep 5, 2015 December marks 5 years since last treatment (surgery). Dealing with side effects of treatment; doing well. Very glad to see so many still here. Keep fighting the good fight, everyone!

PapaPaul from Texas.  Enrolled Aug 11, 2015. Approaching 3 years since diagnosis of stage IVa SCC HPV+ unknown primary November 1, 2012. PET located second tumor in left tonsil. Tonsillectomy on Dec 20, 2012. Six weeks of daily radiation and Paclitaxel chemo once weekly for 6 weeks started in February and was completed March 18, 2013 . Due to hyper- sensitivity to chemo drugs only finished 2 rounds of chemo treatments. All scans have been NED next scan Aug 31, 2015. Most taste has returned although some things have changed and taste buds seem to "wear out" about every 2 - 3 weeks but they do return within days. Back to work full time for last 18 months which requires me to travel extensively. Life is good! Checking in Feb. 20, 2017 Everything fine until 2016: Almost exactly my 3 year anniversary, I had a heart attack and bypass surgery in March. December 2016 diagnosed with prostate cancer. Awaiting treatment options from my original oncologists. Here I go again, new dance same old partner…

Pclark21st (?). Enrolled June 6, 2019. Checking In for boyfriend. Dx 12/15/17 Stage IIII/IV tonsil cancer HPV +. Was given 2/3 days to live, had emerg trach and Gtube. Went through 40 rads and 3 Cisplatins. Hernia from coughing. Wk in hospital from aspirated pnuemonia. Clear PET 6/8/18. Trach and Gtube removed. Clear 6 mos scan. 9 mos scan in Jan 2019 showed activity, confirmed with PET and biopsy at medialstinum. Orig thought MET but decided local recurrence of downward growth of original tumor. Had pleural effusion requiring drain tube during treatment. 35 Rads and 6 Cisplatins. CT showed reduction of tumor. Praying for clear PET on 6/12/19. Never giving up

Patricke from Florida, joined forum Aug 2006, enrolled on January 19, 2012. DX’d Stage IV, base of tongue in July 2000. DX’d w/tumor at entrance to trachea in April 2011. Larynx removed. Checked in March 06, 2013 and life is good and hope we all keep moving forward. Checking in December 29, 2017 I am checking in happily still alive and kick'in, and just happy to be here. I did have another war with the Beast last January when some tumors were discovered on the soft palate in my mouth. The tumors were removed, and the excavated spaces were filled in with flaps from the exterior lining of my stomach; which is pretty amazing. I am very active with family activities, as well as hiking, camping, canoeing, jog/walking, biking, and gym ratting. Life is so good, and I am oh so thankful. I have always appreciated life, but of course even more so now since having survived multiple wars with the Beast, as well as a number of additional recovery related, severe health challenges. To anyone who may read this who is dealing with the challenges of treatment and recovery, I heartily encourage you to hang in there during the darkest times, no matter how tough it may be, taking it one day, hour, minute, or second at a time, and you will get to experience the brightest times. Use your support systems to get you through, such as family, friends, support groups, and therapy; you are not alone. Always remember: recovery is a marathon, so pace yourself, and be very patient with the process. You Can Do This! Lastly, Keep It Mov''in Forward!   I submit this with love to all. Checking in January 9, 2018, STILL HAV'IN FUN. It is great to hear from and about so many of the folks who I have been wondering about. Life overall, has been and is great. I have been having more fun than the law allows, especially hiking and camping in south Florida, and last summer, in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. I did, however, have another battle with the beast about this time last year, when, a couple of tumors were found in the soft palate of my mouth, requiring another dance in the surgical suite at Beth Israel-Mount Sianai in NYC. The interior of my mouth on the upper right side was remodeled using a flap of tissue from the exterior lining of my stomach, to fill in space where the tumors were removed. Oh, did I mention that the tumors were attributed to, wait for it, the ever popular radiation therapy; the gift..... After going through the usual post surgery recovery gauntlet, I was back on the trails again by June. No radiation or chemo were necessary. Actually, I don't believe that I am a candidate for radiation any more, given all of the fibrosis of so much tissue in my neck. I plan on heading back to NH this summer, for a month or two, camping in Gorham, to go all mountain man and bag as many peaks as possible. If there are any hikers out there who's would like to join me on some hikes, on any level of difficulty, drop me a message. As always, I am just happy to be here. Best wishes to everyone to have a most excellent year.  Checking in February 17, 2019 Hey CivilMatt, it's great to see that you are out there, and hopefully lliv'in large, hav'in a ton of fun. I'm still alive and kick'in after another round with the beast in 2017. I'm doing great now, and hav'in more fun than the law allows venturing out into the wilderness swamps, forests, and on mountains. Let's all Keep It Mov'in Forward! Patricke. CivilMatt ‘s respect for Patricke  contnues on it upward trajectory as he learns more of his story.

Pattyanny, New York, joined forum July 2009, enrolled November 27, 2010. DX’d Undiagnosed prid necmary head ank in June 2009. Enrolled November 27, 2010. MIA in 2013 and checked back in on February 10, 2013.

Peggylulu, Texas, joined forum December 2012, enrolled February 2, 2013. DX’d SCC on scalp in 2011 . It was removed by MOHs surgery in Dec. of 2011 , then in April of 2012 I found a lump on the side of my neck . I had surgery and 3 Lymph glands removed also did Radiation . 33 Rads finished On Oct. 26th 2012 . Funny how you never forget that date !Had a recurrence the next April so another surgery . NED ever since. Checking in Aug 1, 2015 It's so good to see most of my friends are still here ! A big thank you to Civilmatt and Skiffin16 for all that you do for everyone and this great site ! Checking in January 29, 2016 I'm still here and doing well . Still have no salvia , but taste is much better except for sweets which were always my favorite . i have a PET scheduled for February 9th and feel very hopeful that I will still be Seeing MR. NED. I'm sorry I don't check in very often but as you know my problems were so much less than most on this forum that I don't feel like I can offer much help . I'm so happy to still see some of the survivors on here that I know and sad to see the ones that are not . Thank you again to CivilMatt, skiffin16, Phrannie51 and all the others that have been so much help to me and everyone. 

Peneloppe (caregiver) from Montreal, Canada, Enrolled January 28, 2018, He was diagnosed July 2017 Nasopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma with locoregional lymph nodes metastasis and Epstein Barr Virus.35 radiation with 6 schedules cisplatin chemo, was unable to do last chemo, was hospitalized for febrile neutropenia and malnutrition at end of treatment, developed sepsis but made it’s now 3 months post treatment doing well in general. First ct scan showed 50% reduction of cancer, which is not what we expected, now it is wait and see.

Phrannie51 from Montana, joined forum March 2012, enrolled, April 2, 2012. DX’d NPC Stage III, T1N2M0 on March 26, 2012. Checked in January 18 and May 26, 2013. Check in July 15, 2015   Last Onc checkup in May, 2015...all clear....last ENT checkup July 2015....all clear.....scan scheduled for Aug. 12, 2015....praying for another all clear. Checking in June 24, 2016. Had a recurrence in October, 2015 in nodes by my collarbone. Modified radical neck dissection Nov. 13, 2015....another 25 rounds of radiation ending Feb. 10th, 2016.....PET scan in May showed clear....NED :)!!! Checking in February 5, 2019 (I’m still here) Phrannie, Mt.....been here a very long time, it seems....lol 

PJ47 from North Carolina.  Joined 09-2013, enrolled 12-18-2013. DX’d 08-01-2013 w/BOT SCC,  Stage 3 or 4 (depending on the MD) T1N1M0, HPV 16+. TORS surgery to BOT & 22 nodes removed on 09-06-2013. Declined chemo. Still in radiation till after Xmas. Complications after 2 feeding tube surgeries. Update 33rounds of radiation ending in Dec 2013. 2 PEG tubes (never used for food, but had to irrigate anyway). 8 front teeth filled so far and 2 cataract surgeries 1 year following treatment and now shingles. Got rid of the HPV virus with AHCC. Whooping it up in Montana now and eating peach, chocolate, and hucklberry pie and ice cream. Also kayaking, swimming and dancing to work the calories off.  Loving life and all its ups and downs. Check in Jam 13, 2014, July 13, 2015. Checking in February 27, 2016. Happy to be here. Still working at Hospice part time Two years out, having mostly dental issues since radiation, but also had two cataract surgeries. Experiencing joint pain and uncertain of etiology. Could just be "old age" haha. Pushing 70 and pushing forward trying to make every day meaningful and joyful. Peace, PJ

Postie65  from Saskatchewan, Canada. Joined forum February 2013, enrolled February 12, 2013, DX’d November 19, 2012 w/early Stage II SCC of tongue. Had partial glossectomy and removed part of tongue. Still undergoing treatment at time of enrollment. Checking in February 29, 2016 I haven't been on this website much since I started my recovery, so it is so great to read the success stories. I had Stage 2 tongue cancer, I had 1/3 of my tongue removed (the right side from front to back) and 30 radiation and 2 chemo (supposed to have 3 but was too sick). I didnt get the feeding tube and lost 55 lbs in a month and a half. In hind sight I should have taken the feeding tube. But in July of 2016 I was told by the Cancer clinic here that they don't want to see me anymore...a break-up that I will gladly accept! Dry mouth is still a bit of a problem...white chicken meat, bread, crackers...that kind of stuff doesn't really go down without a big glass of water. I am used to my new normal in the taste department, but for the most part everything tastes fairly normal. I get the odd muscle spasm in my neck/jaw area sometimes and have very limited movement in the stretch of my neck muscles. My teeth started to chip right away and are getting to be pretty bad. I guess I will have to check into my options for this issue. But I really am back to normal. I live a bit healthier than before and try not to sweat the small stuff. I travel as much as I can now too, because one never knows what the future holds. But I turned 50 last year and I couldn't have been happier! Bring it on.

Prmatzke (?). Enrolled January 8, 2018. Joining the group! Hello, all! I was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma on my tongue and 9 lymph nodes in February of 2017. I completed my last stage of treatment mid August, and my PET in November was all clear. I want to say thank you to your many contributions on this site. You all have given me honest answers to questions I had about my treatment and side effects. I am healing fairly well, but hope that this trend will continue as I am still unable to eat “real“ food and still suffer with intermittent stomatitis . All that said though, I am grateful to be alive and relatively well! Again, the support of shared experiences has helped me tremendously, and I hope to continue to learn more from you all as our journeys continue.

Psychedoutca (?) Caregiver for husband.  Enrolled July 10, 2017. My husband was diagnosed with NPC SCC metastatic lymph nodes in January 2015. He went through the standard chemo, with docitaxol, 5-fu, and Cisplatin. In addition to a brutal standard radiation. He went into remission until December 2016, where they found mets on his bome sacrum in hip. He started gemsar, and cisplatin, only to have a reaction to the cisplatin, and finished with the gemsar when the mets grew. He started Nivolomab, and ended that in June of this year. when they found mets on his liver. He started an experimental drug today in Bay Area. We are cautiously hopeful as he is doing well , young, and relatively healthy. We have four children who are still school age and looking to buy as much time and explore all options for as long as possible. Checking in January 17, 2018, Still here! Have not checked in, in awhile, but he is still here. Stage IV Nasopharyngeal squamous Cell Carcinoma, with mets to bone & Liver. Since last check in we have gone through a few clinical trials, and cancer has progressed. His liver is covered with mets. As of last month the oncologist said it’s tine to prepare. We received Foundation genetic testing indicating a possible sensitivity to Ibrance. We start that soon. It’s not covered for H&N patients only breast cancer, but we are going to try anyway, he is on 46, we are not going down without a fight. 

Rachel12srsuv from Pennsylvania.  Joined forum 02-2013, enrolled 03-08-2013. DX’d Stage 3, NPC in May 2000. Radical neck dissection, right side involving 2 lymph nodes. NED on 08-28-2000. In 13th year and recently DX’d w/Dysphlagia. No food of fluid orally till retrain swallowing. Checking in, Jan 21, 2014 still here! Its been a year since what could be permanent Peg tube has been in, still annoying, but handling it is easier! Got to find something to be happy with side effects of Ensure plus therapeutic Nutrition has seriously affected my BMI in a good way so from a diet i started in 2012 till now i am at my goal and 70lbs lighter size 8, which I don’t know if T ever wore! Still fighting for SSD finally have hearing date on April 9 @ 11 am in Elkins Park Pa anyone near there feel free to come and support me and our fight when cancer has taken to much! I have found a few of you on Face book would love to find more of my friends there, having issues with E mail sorry Matt got your msg wouldn't let me send back , i need your funny attitude! If i know you i will accept its under Rachel Wilson my daughter Faith with a Frozen doll on Christmas is on page! I WAS HOME THIS YEAR! Pray for you all every day, love you all hope your happy! Much Love. Rachel12srsuv if your email address is still the same I might try to send you something in 2022 CM

Raddude from North Carolina. Enrolled Aug 15, 2016, Diagnosed with StageIV scc in October 2015. 7 rounds of erbitux and 35 rounds of radiation. Finished treatment 3/7/16. first PET was negative and now on a new normal life. Checking in Feb. 4, 2017. 3 Scans since and NED on each. I have regained strength, weight and taste. Life is good. All my fellow warriors are in my thoughts and prayers.

Ratface, from Illinois. Joined forum 08-2009, enrolled. DX’d July 2009 BOT, T1N2BMX, Stage IV-BOT-2 nodes right side, selective dissection. 11-30-09 9 nodes removed. Checked in 09-25-2013 and getting ready for another cold, cold winter. Checking in July 21, 2015 Lots of friends here Still here! Checking in October 19, 2019 (10 years here) Hi everyone, I'm doing really well 10 yrs out. Grateful to still be typing! I was BOT stage four, cisplatin, 39 RADS, and a neck dissection. 

Redbanker (caregiver) from New Jersey. Joined forum May 2011, enrolled on January 21, 2012. Enrolled BF. DX’d SCC BOT HPV + T1N2a, Stage IVa on March 2010, After a consultation with his doctor at Beth Israel (NYC) and a trip to Johns Hopkins, he went with treatment here at the Jersey Shore. It was the standard 35 doses of radiation via IMRT and three cisplatin. All things considered, the cisplatin was the worst of it, but Ativan was a life saver. He never got a PEG and ate--with great difficulty and perseverance--throughout.. Checked in February 1, 2013. Taste back and no saliva problems. Reported on 12-28-2013 that had CT previous day. Thyroid probably failing and ear buzzing. Taste at about 98.5%. Checking in July 22, 2015 4 YEARS OUT Taste came back in stages though he tells me even now apples don't taste as wonderful as they once did. Some hearing disability from the cisplatin--he did have the dose reduced for the 2nd and 3rd treatments. The big residual is his failing thyroid that we can't quite get ahead of….I always read the board and am so happy to see so many get successfully to the other side of this challenging treatment--as our medical oncologist told us, outside of some leukemia’s, this is about the worst of the cancer treatments. Especially glad to see my spirit guides Skiffin16 and Hondo still here giving with such generosity. Checking in Jan 13, 2016, We are now starting to check off our 5-year anniversaries. It was during the first week of January '11 that a lump on the left side of his neck became noticeable enough for Nick to mention it to me. So, four and a half years out from the conclusion of treatment in June '11 -- things are going well. No teeth problems this year, but they are the gift that keep on giving. The main residual complaint is a lack of energy or an energy store that is easily expended. All indications are that this is a thyroid problem, but last test did put him in a normal range.  

Remington25 from North Dakota. Joined the H&N forum on December 2020. Enrolled in the Roll Call on September 14, 2021. I was diagnosed with SCC HPV16+ in October 2020. On 11/18 I had radical neck dissection and then began chemo and radiation on 12/28/2020. My first follow-up PET scan was 4/15 and was NED. I have a second scan in October.  

Revbyrd (?).  Joined forum December 2013, enrolled January 6, 2013. Had sore throat for 8 years and DX’d October 2013 with stage 4, SCC right tonsil and 2 lymph nodes. Undergoing radiation and chemo at time of enrollment. Doing okay.

Roar (?). Joined forum March 2013, enrolled May 19, 2013. DX’d unknown primary. 37 cisplatin partial neck dissection.

robswife87 (Caregiver).  joined forum March 2013, enrolled March 8, 2013. Wife enrolled husband DX’d SCC left tonsil, 4 lymph nodes, 2 on other side. Undergoing treatment at time of enrollment. Checking in Jan 21, 2014 husband is doing great! Haven't been on in a while. Computer is down. He is 7 months out of treatment and doing well. 50 percent saliva taste is coming g along. Got back in his semi this week and heading to Florida tomorrow. He did end up on thyroid meds a month ago. Weight is stable and diabetes has been beat. P.S. Typing on a kindle sucks  Checked in July 15, 2015. No surgery, just (radiation and chemo). July 6, 2015 NED and doing great. Check in Aug. 21, 2016, my husband is 3 years 3 months out and still NED. Suffers from myoclonus but Keppra keeps it under control. Had some muscle spasms for a couple months but seem to be gone.

Rochester1950 (?) Enrolled Dec 21, 2016. Merry Christmas & happy HEALTHY new year to all! Diagnosed with esthesioneuroblastoma, stage B last December. After 5 weeks of radiation therapy, lost smell/taste which has not returned. Now have monthly ENT checkups & annual PET scans. Feeling good & thankful to be here. Grateful for all the support on this website!

RoopaliSandeep (?) Joined Sep 8,2015 My father diagnosed with T1b cancer of glottic. He underwent radical radiotherapy for 6 1\2 week for 5 days a week with cobalt -60. He completed his radiotherapy in May'15. Now he OK with few of the side effects like hoarse voice. 

RR89st (caregiver) from Michigan. Enrolled and checked in February 19, 2020. First time posting. My husband just started his journey in this process called cancer treatment. He was diagnosed Dec 19th, 2019 with squamous cell carcinoma of the right tonsil with 1 lymph node involved. Have since found back of tongue with involvement and tumor through right lower jaw. He is 1 week into radiation and chemo. I have read dozens of the posts, gleaning info about everything. Taking notes and learning much here. We live in Michigan right about the web between the thumb and first finger. We would be honored to be involved in this wonderful community.

Ruben and Jude from California, joined forum April 2013, enrolled June 23, 2013. DX’d Stage IV left tonsilar cancer to left lymph node. Treatment completed and using PEG. Having side effects associated with cancer treatment (radiation, the gift that keeps giving).  Checking in Feb 20, 2014 Hi All! Since he has some dead bone in his right jaw, which was 'caught early', he will be starting hyperbaric chamber treatment on March 10th (30-dives). We're looking forward to the 'new normal', as every day is so different from the last. Good days, bad days, but all in all, we're happy he's alive and NED. 

Rubytoos (?) Feb 4, 2014 I had a malignant neoplasm L tonsil in 2011, II Squamous cell carcinoma - 35 rads. Recurrence in left neck 6/2013 -malignant neoplasm of head, face, neck. Left radical neck dissection  6/2013. Go for MRI on April 2, 2014. Keep praying.  Just like all of you, I want to kick this in the butt!!!!Thank you all again for your uplifting thoughts and prayers

Rush1958 from Kansas.  Enrolled July 20, 2010. DX’d SCC base of tongue January 12, 2010.  tonsillectomy and biopsy 3/12/10, Neck Dissection, 2/41 lymph nodes removed left side were positive on 4/3/10. T1N3M0. Completed 33 radiation treatments on 6/23/10, 3 rounds of chemo (Cisplatin) completed on 6/14/10.)Checked in January 21, 2013. Check in July 11, 2015. Checking in April 1, 2016. 2010 Alumni.  Just checking in for 2016. Still hanging in there. Checking in February 26, 2017. Seven Years Out Just checking in for 2017. Still hanging in there. Checking in October 27, 2017 I'm still here. Over seven years out. Checking in March 2, 2019 Yes, still kicking NEW Still hanging in there after nine years. I go in once a year for a check-up with the good folks at the University of Kansas Medical Center for my peace of mind. Shucks, they even have have huge portriat picture of me hanging on the wall of the new wing at the hospital on the second floor - as one of their success stories. I'm honored to be there! Rush1958.  Checking in September 10, 2021. Hi everyone! I hadn't checked in for a while. I'm still hanging in there cancer free since my trifecta treatment of surgery, radiation and chemo ended in July 2010. I'm retired as of the first of the year after 43 years on the railroadd and enjoying life. Good to see some of the guys still checking in! Rush1958.  CivilMatt asks“was that 43 years all the live long day”?,

RushFan from Texas. Joined forum August 2010, enrolled August 3, 2010. January 2010, swollen lymph node was a concern after not responding to two rounds of antibiotics.    DX’d HPV=T) N2b MO unknown primary in January 2010. Completed treatments 4/30/2010 M. D. Anderson : 35 rads, 7 once weekly doses of Cisplatin Given the all clear May 2013, which was a surprise.   Checked in January 11, 2012. Regained 25 of 35 pounds lost. Checked back in June 23, 2013 and weight holding steady. Taste back to 99%. Doing great, dry mouth at night...some minor swallowing issues. Best to all, ,Chuck Checked in July 15, 2015. Checked in Jan 8, 2016, I don't check the site much anymore, but noticed the roll call thread this morning. I was raised in Visalia. MWHS class of 1979, lived on Terrace Ave. (now street) behind Visalia Fair Mall. I now live in Cypress, TX...which is north of Houston. I miss Sequoia National Park! The only change to report from last roll call is very dry skin on my trapezeus muscles near my neck and some flash jaw pain. Other than that, doing well. Teeth and gums are holding up. I'm still dry at night. I can eat most everything, with the exception of white meat chicken, pork chops or lean beef. I still need to be careful swallowing. I know I'm very fortunate. Best to all. BTW said the flash jaw pain was likely nerve damage / late effects from radiation and nothing to worry about. Checking in August 7, 2018 (It’s been a long time) Since I've checked in. Diagnosed Jan. 2010 HPV+ N2b MO, unknown primary. Just a little over eight years post treatment (33 rads, 7 once weekly cisplatin) and I'm doing great. Dry mouth at night is helped greatly by Xlimelts. Have some tinitus, stiff neck and jaw issues. Still difficult to eat lean meats, but all is well as I could stand to lose 15 pounds or so. I was recently released from serving as Bishop of our LDS ward. That, along with working 50+ hours a week has kept me very busy! Our oldest daughter will be attending UT Austin in the fall, the twins will be sophomore's in high school and the little guy will be in 6th grade.   I have always been grateful for those contributing on this board, the support and advice are terrific. Best regards to all, RushFan

Section 8 of 9

ROLL CALL 2021 - First posting December 9, 2021

H&N MEMBERS Train-nut (OM) - Zinniemay

Train-nut (OM) from Oklahoma. Joined in 2007, hupopharyngeal (piriform sinus) cancer, Checked 01-22-09

Tryinghard (?). Enrolled November 21, 2016. nasopharyngeal cancer with lymph node involvement on right. Diagnosed February 2016. Had complicated recovery post 33 rads, 3 Cisplatin and 1 adjuvant of Cisplatin and 5FU. Hospitalized with acute kidney failure April 11 to 27. Wound up with peg and mediport after treatments. Upper Endocope 10/13 showed gastric acid small ulcers erosion of esophagus. Put on Omeprazole and nausea and vomiting finally stopped so I could eat solid foods. Had been living on Boost Plus Protein Ice Cream shakes 4 times a day. Repeat PET scans in July and October clean. Now dealing with lymphedema below chin and neck. Thankful my life is starting to get better. 

Tuffenuff from Florida. Joined forum May 2012, enrolled March 11, 2013. DX’d in April 2012 w/Stage IV SCC, right tonsil w/mets to two lymph nodes.

Treatment completed on August 3, 2012 and scans all clear so far.

VanessaSLO (?). Enrolled Jan. 31,2017, Joined July, 2012 His original diagnosis on May 2012 was: Ca Oropharyngis T2N2bM0. It started on the base of his tongue, spreading down and little to the other side of the tongue. Lymph nodes on the one side of his neck - fine needle biopsy showed SCC and were very big. The biggest package of lymph nodes was 8 cm big! By the time tx started, he already had T3N2bM0. His treatment took place from July to September 2012: 35 rads with 7 concurrent chemoteraphy (Cisplatin). No surgery. A year later (Sept. 2013) he had a surgery where they took out 15 lymph nodes from his neck because one of them looked suspicious on ultrasound. All were clear, thank God!!! Hi all! It's been a long time since I came here! This board was a great help to my family during my father's treatment back in 2012. So I decided to come back here for all the newcomers and give them hope - my dad is still healthy, happy and still kicking!! Hi all! It's been a long time since I came here! This board was a great help to my family during my father's treatment back in 2012. So I decided to come back here for all the newcomers and give them hope - my dad is still healthy, happy and still kicking!!

Vee1, from California. Joined forum Novemer 2012, enrolled February 1, 2013. Enrolling dad (94 yrs old) who was DX’d SCC floor of mouth. NED for 11 years, recurred in November 2012. Inoperable and no chemo.

Vermontgirl from Vermont. Enrolled January 3, 2013. Husband DX’ed with SCC tonsils, Stage IV w/one lymph node on same side on November 19, 2013.

Vetorama from Florida. Joined forum Sep 2005, enrolled Feb 12, 2013, DX’d Oct 2, 2012 w/Stage IV mandible and floo of mouth. Surgical excision and reconstruction. Still undergoing treatment at enrollment.

Vicky1 from Maine. Enrolled July 10, 2018, My Dad has cancer and is undergoing treatments. Update I'm new here. My dad was diagnosed in February with verrcuous carcinoma in his mouth. He had a mandiblectomy and fibular free flap reconstruction at Mass Eye and Ear in May and is about to undergo 30 radiation treatments and 5 or 7 chemo treatments. Just stumbled upon this forum while searching for the best cream to buy for his radiation.

Victor53 (OM), from Rhode Island. Lives in Costa Rica, enrolled August 5, 2008. Started Stage IV treatment on April 4, 2008, chuckled on comment that chemo & radiation did not sterilize him. Has a young son and a daughter. Checked in January 23, 2012; Announced on February 7, 2003 that he is on FB “face book.

Viking18 from Washington DC metro area. Enrolled January 7, 2018, Diagnosed with Olfactory Neuroblastoma in October 2017. Almost four weeks ago, I had surgery to remove the tumor at Johns Hopkins. My medical focus for early 2018 is to heal and recover as much as possible so I'm in good shape for radiation therapy. Meanwhile, I try to take each day as it comes, enjoy time with friends and family, and learn more about what really matters. I am grateful for the information on this forum and the wisdom of the good people who share it. Thank you!

VivianLee5689 (?) enrolled January 21, 2013. Husband DX’d w/stage IV, BOT cancer. Also DX’dwith Primary Plasma Cell Leukemia, November 24, 2012. Cancer is not curable and given a 3% chance of living. Wishes he will be here for next roll call. FORUM USERS, PRAYERS NEEDED.

Warrior4MyFamilty (Sister enrolled)​ (?) February 8, 2016, Dx ENB (Esthesioneuroblastoma). I am the sister to my 54 years old brother, I have been able to help my brother get set up with some wonderful centers/surgeons and we are in the process of choosing our surgeon/medical center for his surgery. He was dx with a Hyams Grade 2, Kaddish C ENB. Pet Scan negative for metastasis. He will have surgery in late Feb or early March and we are awaiting final determination of surgical approach and radiation recommendations.

Wbcgaruss from Pennsylvania. Enrolled July 12, 2018 Long time reader and recently signed up as a member in the club nobody wants to be in. First I would like to give honor to Hawvet who this is in memory of, he and those who traveled this journey before us and others like Kteacher and Longtermsurvivor. And a shout out and thank you to CivilMatt for continuing it-Thanks CM. In late November 2012, I had a sore throat that would not go away. After 2 runs of antibiotics for 10 days each in which a sore throat would go away and then resume again after the antibiotics wore off so my family doc sent me to see an ENT. He did a scope job and said “not good news you have a tumor in your throat”. Confirmed as cancer with biopsy squamous cell probably Stage IV they wondered why I did not have some trouble swallowing. Starting January 1 they had my treatment plan all made, and treatment was started I had my mask and had many meetings and my treatment was started. Had the whole routine feeding tube, port, mask.

I did 2 stints in the hospital for 5 days on 24-hour chemo with time between for blood count to build up. Then started a plan of 35 rads and chemo in the beginning middle and end of rads. At some point in this treatment, my Parotid gland got infected and I spent several days in the hospital on heavy antibiotics and the left side of face swelled up. I was transported by ambulance to not miss any rad treatments and had a difficult time with the mask as my face was swelled but a great rad gal talked and worked me through it. I owe her great gratitude what a blessing. All scans now show cancer free. Fast forward recently had sore on the bottom left of the tongue that would not go away. Back to ENT and he did a biopsy and confirmed cancer same type as before and diagnosed as Stage I. He says not a recurrence but another round of cancer. Operated on recently 6/21/18 recovering well mostly healed up and doing well. Lost very little tongue tissue. Always an avid reader of this forum I decided this time around to make it official and join in. SORRY to make this so long. New member but old reader so wanted to explain a bit. God Bless and Strengthen you in your journey and may cancer not darken your door step again. This is one great group of people sharing help and hope. Checking in February 3, 2019 I had Throat cancer in late 2012 read this forum heavily-a God send-like a support group every day instead of once a month with informed people going through what I was going through and even a doctor that was active and had cancer. Talk about having resources you can't beat it. Starting Jan. 2013 Had 35 rads and 3 chemo treatments including 2 chemo treatments of one week at a time in the hospital. Clear of cancer till the late spring of this year I fingered I was in good shape-almost 5 years out and got a small spot on the bottom of my tongue. I was lucky it was gotten early and only lost a small amount of tongue and had clear margins. That is when I joined CSN after the second occurrence I figured I am in the club now. Just want to help others if I can in any way. God Bless. Checking in June 18, 2019 Tongue cancer last year, a small spot. ENT operated June of 2018 and got clear margins. Lost just a small amount of tongue. Generally feeling good but my worst leftovers are dry mouth and especially neuropathy. And I think I still have some chemo brain. But I am still on this side of the sod and God has blessed me Greatly. Take care all. Checking in January 10, 2020. July 2019 I had a soreness on the left side of my neck. Saw my ENT and he ordered a cat scan with dye. Results of the scan were cancer again this time #3 of the lymph node. Also it was outside of the lymph node. On Sept 18, 2019 I was operated on for cancer of the lymph nodes a radical neck dissection at Hershey Med in PA. The operation went well but was a bit involved and had some complications. I ended up spending 35 days in Hershey Med and then was transferred to a rehab hospital for 10 days and then home. I hope no one else ever has to go through an extended stay like this. I am taking radiation follow up treatments now and if I don’t miss any I will be done Feb. 7th 2020. I am getting a total of 30 treatments. All this brings a different perspective to life. I give God the credit and Glory for getting me through this as it certainly wasn’t my strength. Each day is a blessing. I like one of civilmatt’s statements I think it applies to many of us but we do not think about it exactly the same as everybody else does “ I see life differently now, wonder and tragedy are but a heartbeat away” There's no place like Home. Checking in October 8, 2020. Hello all and God bless. The Number one thing I want to do is acknowledge and thank CivilMatt for doing the Roll Call and keeping it going and a Hats off and a Hearty Salute in Honor and Memory of HAWVET who started it. For my most recent cancer treatment I was sent to Penn State Milton Hershey Teaching Hospital for surgery. I had surgery and it was successful but I had a number of complications starting with a damaged Khyle Valve and-rather than getting released in a couple of days as was thought I ended up spending 36 days there and getting 6 operations finally being released to a rehab nursing home for 10 days. I had follow up rads around the area so it is my second time to have rads around the H & N area. I am doing well now but need a tooth pulled so I am in the process of getting HBOT treatments which I am into my fourth week which will be 20 treatments. They want me to have 30 and pull the tooth and 10 treatments afterward. I must say I have had 2 major cancers and they do add up on you. No matter enjoying life each day and thanking God for getting me through it all and providing so many dedicated doctors, nurses, rehab people, and many too numerous to remember them all. I was just an avid reader till I got my second cancer then I joined CSN. What a great group of people taking care of each other. Greatest wishes to all-Take Care-God Bless-wbcgaruss.

Wboaz (OM) from Oregon. Joined in 2006, dx’d with Squamous Carcenoma of left tonsil. Checked in 05-12-2009. Spot showed in right lung at followup. Another scan In two months.

Wife for Life from Missouri. Joined forum 02-2010, enrolled April 15, 2010. . Husband DX’d 11-06-2009, Stage IV, SCC w/primary BOT, MET to lymph & tonsils. MIA and checked back 09-24-2013NED and ran 5K on last birthday.

Wild Willy from North Carolina, joined forum June 2012, enrolled February 2, 2013. DX’d right tonsil cancer. Checked in July 31 w/no taste and about 70-80% saliva. Pain in neck/ear but doing well. Checking in Jan 25, 2014 4 yrs out in March. clicking right along. Check in July 13, 2015. Check in Aug. 12, 2016, still kicking and dealing with what we were dealt. 2nd check-in November 2, 2016, still kicking and getting along pretty good. having trouble swallowing. Can’t remember very good. don’t know if its old age (76) or leftover chemo problems. just got back from my 15th wilderness elk hunt in Colorado. Checking in August 15, 2017 still in pretty good shape. sore throat and trouble swallowing. had throat stretched a month ago but no help. another throat procedure in October, hope this helps. will be 78 in February and still able to ride horseback daily and go on my Colorado elk hunts in the fall. i will admit sleeping on the ground is getting harder. Checking in June 20, 2019, still going. still no taste, still trouble swallowing. all the pains we all have. memory shot to hell.

Wolfen (cargiver to spouse) from Arizona. Joined in 2009. Husband diagnosed with BOT, Nasopharyngeal, Left Lung – 2012. Also DX’d with secondary primary, not MET w/cancer left lung. Due to medical complications, no cancer treatment at this time. Had 13 teeth extracted. Power port and G-tube placed. Already lost 60 pounds and very weak. My husband lost his battle in May 2013. Although my husband was called home, I remain to honor his memory & to be of help in any way that I can. Also, I am the Caregiver and Mother to Johnnybegood diagnosed with Colon – 2008. My daughter, Johnnybegood, is a member through the Colon Cancer forum. She lost her battle July 2014. Time marches on with the love of my CSN family. Check in July 11, 2015. Checking in January 31, 2016 I am still here on the sidelines watching over all of you. I so admire the strength and tenacity each of you have as you fight this beast. I still struggle daily with the loss of my husband and daughter. Not sure what will happen to me and my big dog as I face the loss of my home, but it cannot compare to what I have already lost or what each of you face every day. "Never, ever give up" Luv, Wolfen. Checking in Jan 30, 2017 Still kickin' A$$ and takin' names best I can. Life goes on in sunny Arizona. Always keeping everyone here in my thoughts and prayers. Luv, Checking in July 7, 2019, I look at the discussion board periodically. The posts were such a help 10 yrs ago. Wolfen. Hey CivilMattt. Checking in March 10, 2019 from mostly sunny Arizona. Tried to sneak away to Montana or Wyoming, but only in my dreams. Then I woke up. Dang! Slowly adjusting to being a lonely widow, but "it is what it is". I will always miss my husband and daughter. Cancer destroyed half of my family. Staying on the sidelines rooting and praying for each and every one of you as you fight the terrible Beast. NEVER EVER GIVE UP! Luv,Wolfen. October 23, 2019 checking in, Still Here. Sweet CivilMatt, Still here in mostly hot and dusty Arizona. Had dreams of moving to the mountains, but didn't work out. Another year older, but no wiser. Getting along okay, just the usual stuff that comes with getting older. and grandson live with me to help out, along with our 2 BIG dogs, 90 lbs. and 120 l Son s. Will forever miss my West Virginia hillbilly and my beautiful Kentucky cowgirl.b Life is a lonely place without them. As always, wishing the best for everyone here. Luv, wolfen

wmc from California. I joined Jan 11th 2011. Larnyx cancer just above vocal cords T3,N0,Mo Had my larynx remover and 86 lymph glands modified radial neck dissection on both sides. Never had chemo or Radiation just the surgery from ear to ear. I have been NED the day they did the surgery. This site and all the ones on here helped me get through some dark times as I accepted breathing through my neck. We're like an extended family. What have I learned the most; Keep hydrated, Never give up, Live your "new Life", and help all the new ones going through this, and honor all the ones we lost. I'm now 21 months and still NED. Che1ck in Jan 13, 2014, July 10, 2015. Checking in Jan 1, 2016, Passed my two year and still NED. Thank you CivilMatt for continuing this and also for all the support and wonderful advise to all the "New Members" to the family. I know, stay hydrated and swallow that water. It almost sounds silly we all tell everyone to do this, but it has been the best advice I got, and it was from you. Checking in Oct 23, 2016 T3;N0;M0; Supraglottic SCC. Lungs were too bad to survive surgery or radiation. Only choice was to have a full laryngectomy with a neck dissection on both sides, and breath through my neck. Not a hard choice to make. Never had Chemo or radiation. They put in a prosthesis [TEP] which lets my still speak with my voice. Not quite the same, and very life changing learning to eat, swallow, and speak all over again. Three years cancer free. Checking in Feb. 2, 2017 Thank you, CivilMatt. I don't get to get back that often. I spend so much of my time with the Laryngectomee group. Still making videos to show my fellow Lary's we can do so many things they [Medical field] say's we can't do. As a Neck breather, we are told daily you can't do that anymore. So, we respond "Yet", I can't Yet. You should have seen them when I was waiting for my SLP to come back with her supplies and I was playing the Harmonica. She just laughed, and said, of course you can. I guess we get another video? I now have 9 and need to get busy and make 3 more. They help the "New" Lary's see there is hope. The videos have now reached 87 countries. You can find them on YouTube just type wmcross51 in the search. As I was reading the last of all our friends we have lost, it brought tears. So many names that were a part of my life, it hurts. I have lost 6 in the last few months to cancer. Lost my Brother as well. We all do the best we can, and just one day at a time. NGU, Never Give Up. In all, I am good and had to have a minor emergency, but they held the office open for me to turn around and get back to them. The team all stayed and cut a growth out that was blocking my airway. Please know I do think of everyone daily, and pop in when I can. I thank you all for being there when it was pretty dark for me. I love and still pray for you all. The prayer list has grown so long, I just hold up the Book, and say you got this right. I just had 40 months and my 3 year check up was good. I might be the only one who looks forward to them. I get to see my Doctor that saved me. Checking in October 27, 2017 Sorry, I don't get on here much now. I am still NED and just had my 4 year this Oct. At first they thought I was T4; N2c; M0 and the 3cm tumor was pressing on my vocal cord. Lungs are bad with COPD stage 3 so I had only one option. That was to remove my Larynx and breathe through a hole in my neck. Also, do a neck dissection on both sides level 2~5 to remove the lymph glands so If it came back [25% it could] the cancer could not go there. That was the best decision I made. Removed 86 total and was cut ear to ear. They put in a prosthesis so I could still talk. I spend my days on a support group for Laryngectomies. I have been able to find a way to do things we are told you can't do. My Doctor and SLP at Stanford Medical asked me to do some videos and put them on YouTube so they can use them. They show them to the ones that will have to lose their larynx to survive. It seems to give them hope and knowing that this is not a curse. It is a gift of life. Without it, you won't live. I now have 13 and still, need to do more. The videos have now been seen in 106 Countries. I was given a second chance on life. I guess this might be the reason, to help others learn to live with this major change. You should have seen them when they saw me play the Harmonica, on my neck. Now I'm not that good as I have to breathe to play it and I had never played one before. It shows them that if you really want it, fight and never quit. It took 2 months just to whistle, and I was told: "you can't whistle". If I can talk and have no vocal cords, why can't I whistle? So I showed them I can. Most doctors and hospitals don't know how to treat us and even give oxygen to us.I have worked with my local hospital so they could develop a training program to treat us. They didn't know how to get oxygen to me and after a knee surgery they refused oxygen and said I didn't need it. My O2 dropped to 72% and was depriving oxygen to most parts of my body. So we worked together so the next time that won't happen. I am sad to read all the names I knew, and have passed. I have lost 18 just this year of Laryngectomies. So live life to the fullest every day, and may all your days be better than today. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Checking in August 20, 2019 Coming up on 6 years this Oct and still running a Laryngectomy Support group. We're global and members in 19 countries. Still doing a few videos to help them adjust to breathing through there neck instead of the ose. Just trying to help those that need it as I was helped so much. Heck, I wasn't supposed to even make it but I drew the long straw and beat it. Please all stayw well. wmc

CivilMatt says “could you repeat yourself staring back at where you said, I joined Jan 11th 2011”. Take care CM

W6nnh (AE) from Oklahoma. Joined forum July 2012. Checked in June 24, 2013. Reported “Still Kicking”.

Wrhbounds, (?) Joined forum January 2013, enrolled March 10, 2013. No details posted except “started this ride 4/99 still living a full and happy life”. Re-posted 12-20-2013, stage 3, SCC in Feb 1999 so 15 yrs in Feb 2014.

Yensid683 from New York and Florida. Joined forum April 2012, enrolled February 1, 2013. DX’d on March 26, 2012 with IVa base of tongue, HPV+ w/left cervical lymph nodes involved. two selective neck dissections. Chemo/radiation ended July 5, 2012 and returned to work in on September 4. NED in October. NED and going strong! Check in July 15, 2015. Checking in Dec 12,2016, 4 years, 5 months, 7 days since the end of treatments, checkups continue to be good, just a short amount of time until the magic 5 year pin! Checking in April 26, 2017, Moved to Florida in March of 2014, leaving the cold, snow and awful memories of treatment behind! 5 years out from diagnosis! Checking in January 02, 2018, crossed the 5 year threshold in July of 2017, doing well and adapting to the new 'abi-normal' that is the permanent aspects of treatment side effects. It may be a challenge to eat, I have to be careful in the sun but at the same time, I'm here and doing great! Checking in July 17, 2018, (6 years post treatment) Last rad 7/5/12, last ENT visit 7/12/17, NED and 'cured' according to the chancre Emechanics....Checking in February 5, 2019 Still here, DX in March of '12, NED from March of '13, finished with regular appointments with the ENT, annual visits for checkup. Living the new 'abi-normal' life in central FL!

Yogi Bear12 from Wisconsin. Enrolled May 25, 2017, 29 year old police officer and army veteran. Diagnosed with Low Grade Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma located on roof of mouth in February of '17. After tumor was removed had several scans done to see if the cancer had spread, thankfully it had not! Second surgery was a few weeks ago and had a large amount of tissue from hard palate and soft palate removed as precaution. This tissue also after biopsy was found to be cancer free! No chemo or radiation scheduled. Although things are not normal right now and a bit of a struggle it could always be worse and thats what keeps my head up and looking forward. Onward to recovery! I'm hoping this website helps with my mental health regarding diagnosis. Feel free to contact me with any questions, comments, or just to chat!

Zinniemay, Michigan, posted February 3, 2013 that hubby back to Chemo. Head/neck cancer went to lungs and undergoing Chemo treatment. Checking in(reported by Pam M) Feb 22, 2014, posted February 3, 2013 that hubby back to Chemo. Head/neck cancer went to lungs and undergoing Chemo treatment Checking in Dec 12,2016,

Section 3 of 9

ROLL CALL 2021 – First Posting December 9, 2021

H&N MEMBERS Cyfont - Goalie

Cyfont from SE Texas. Enrolled December 24, 2019. Developed a lump on left side of neck and sore throat. As a teacher, I wasn't too concerned because i routinely come down with various bugs. Early November 2018, I went to my MD for a medication recheck. She immediately noticed the lump and sent me to get an Ultrasound. The Monday before Thanksgiving 2018, I had the Ultrasound and was told not to expect results until after Thanksgiving. Well, on Wednesday, I received a call saying it was suspicious. My MD referred me to an ENT. In December 2018 I was scoped and then set up for needle biopsy. Right before Christmas 2018, I was dx with stage IV Oropharyngeal Cancer, HPV16 on the left side. I was scheduled for surgery to do a tonsillectomy and remove lymph nodes on 12/26/18. I came out of operating room and was able to go home. They chose not to do tonsillectomy and took tissue biopsy instead. The following day I found out my insurance does not cover IP for the hospital where I was treated!!! So, I basically had to scramble and find a new ENT who worked out of a hospital that was covered on my insurance. Thankfully, a ENT whom I set up an appointment with called me the morning of my appointment and told me my case was too complicated for her. She recommended an ENT she went to school with. I called and explained my situation and was able to get an appointment the next week. This ENT was a Godsend! He decided to do a Neck Dissection, place a chemo port, feeding tube and I had teeth removed. On 2/6/19 I awoke in the recovery room and as I felt the left side of my neck, I panicked. There was still my tumor.I thought maybe they went in their and thought there was nothing they could do! I was kept overnight for observation, NPO. My ENT decided against neck dissection and opted for me to do chemo and radiation. I had 3 Cisplatin chemos and 35 radiation treatments. I had sever burns and mucous with my radiation, and my chemo treatments left me with a dx of CKD stage 3 and anemia. When I was first diagnosed 12/6/18 , I weighed 307 pounds. I had a lot of trouble eating and with my peg tube. As of today, 12/24/19 I weigh 195! This part of my cancer battle has been a blessing! In November, I had a CT scan and it showed fluid, scar tissue and dead cancer cells. My ENT said I could wait another 3 months and see if there is change or go ahead and have a Neck Dissection and not have everything removed and have peace of mind. I asked my ENT if I was his sister what would he recommend? He said, surgery. 12/10/19 I had a modified neck dissection in which 20 lymph nodes were removed. I had a drain inserted and stayed 2 days in hospital. I developed a Chyle Leak. This is a milky fluid that becomes discharged. It is pretty uncommon, but can happen especially on the left side and when you have been radiated prior to surgery. The Thoracic Duct is damaged and that's where the leak is from. On my 1 week post op visit, ENT removed the drain tube and placed me on a 2 week Fat free diet. This has been challenging, but considering the gift of a pathology of "no active cancer" it is worth it! Merry Christmas to all and a healthier new year!

Dagney1 (?) Hello, I'm. Glad I found this forum. There years ago my dentist saw a lesion under my tongue and told me I should have it checked out. I immediately went to an ENT and the biopsy came back benign. I went back every nine months, he looked at it, and said it looked ok, until June. Had another biopsy and it was no longer benign. I had a hard time finding a doctor that would excise it and take my insurance but finally found one in Abilene. So I had it excised and believed I was done. The two week checkup there was more cancer cells. He sent me to a radiologist. The radiologist explained the awful side effects and said since my cancer was so early stage surgery would be my best option. Here I thought radiation would be like having a few exrays and the cancer was gone, pain free! So I had my surgery October 15, and opted to have some lymph nodes removed in case the cancer returned. I had no idea how bad the side effects are! And the doctors keep telling me I'm doing better than most. They did find a few more cells under my tongue I had removed yesterday. I had just gotten to where I could eat a hamburger. But hopefully I can eat pain free on Thanksgiving. I'm thankful I can still eat and not have a feeding tube. I found this forum while I was still in the hospital. And reading the posts here has put my problems in perspective and given me encouragement. And I have gotten a crash course on how ugly cancer is. 

Daisynbax from Florida. Enrolled October 30, 2016, I was diagnosed with SCC (lateral tongue) on Wednesday. I go for my consultation at Moffitt on Nov. 9. Since I am just at the beginning of this road, I am basically absorbing as much information as I can. 

DarcyS (caregiver) from Michigan. Enrolled in H&N forum in October 2015. Joined RC 2019. Diagnosed in June 2012 with Piriform sinus cancer with 2 lymph nodes, stage iv. 6 weeks chemotherapy with Taxol, cisplatin and cetexamaub. Clinical study with everolimous. 50 radiation treatments with imrt, inpatient with concurrent chemo, 5fu, taxol and hydrea. 3+ year NED. Checking in February 10, 2019 My husband just had his 6+ year checkup and all is well. Life is good with minimal side effects. His diagnosis in 2012 as a non-smoking 55 year old: stage 4 ssc of the piriform sinus with 2 lymph nodes affected. T1N2bM0. His treatment included 6 weeks of chemo followed by 10 weeks of inpatient radiation and concurrent chemo, alternating weeks on and off. We're still here and thankful for all of you. Checking in October 22, 2019 (Life’s good) 7+ years and my husband is still doing great! We're enjoying life and wish you all health and happiness. Thanks for all the great advice and support! Checking in October 6, 2020, 8+ years after my husband's diagnosis of Stage IV ssc of the pyriform sinus. We're enjoying life with minimal side effects. Thanks to all for great advice and support!

Dave K from Illinois. Joined and checked in on March 8, 2019 Hello. I'm new, but old. Will be 10 years since last Rad. session come the 1st week in April for Stage III NPC w/unknown Primary. Noticed the two lymph nodes protruding from left side of neck a couple weeks before I turned 54 in 2008...then the diagnosis w/scans and wait...then the concurrent Cisplatin Chemo and Rads in 20 places/session x31, followed by only 5 places the last 4 sessions...And just turned 64 late last November without any return bouts with C! Forum helped me a lot way back when, with Delnative's advice on mouth and teeth issues, for instance, and Sweetblood22 when she was active. So, knowing how this Roll Call works, though I be old, consider me enrollled as of now. And, for everyone in difficult time of tx, and wondering if you'll make it; or, to those just diagnosed- Believe you can and will survive. There are many who have survived H&N years longer than I have, and so will you...Believe. Checking in December 12, 2019, Aspiration, due to Rad damage at base of throat and scar tissue around esophagus aperture and failed swallowing test, made installation of a permanent G-tube necessary on 8/6/19- 10+ years after my last Rad session. ENT Dr. scoped my throat and said, "I see scar tissue everywhere." Got 68Gys at base of throat and 60 up to chin. Just turned 65, and never to use my teeth to eat again, or drink using the mouth.

dfs56, from NY. Enrolling November 28, 2017, Had surgery for what was believed to be a polyp, but turned out to be an olfactory neuroblastoma in Sept 2014. Came back and resection was done in May 2016. Returned and resection done Aug 2017. Will begin IMRT on Dec 7th for 30 sessions. Hoping and praying for positive results for myself and for all on this site

D Lewis from California, joined forum January 2010, enrolled February 5, 2010. DX SCC base on tongue, January, 2010, checked in July 23, 2010. . PET-CT NED in October 2011. No snot, no spit, no tears, but otherwise living life to the fullest and having a great time. Updated 02-01-2013. Check in Jan 17, 2014 Still hanging in there. It will be four years from end of treatment in May of 2014. No snot, spit, tears; impaired taste; still got teeth; starting to have some minor issues with radiation-induced cataracts, and radiation-induced fibrosis in neck muscles and lungs. Still living life to the fullest and trying not to sweat the small stuff. Damned glad to be here. Damned glad you are all still here as well. Checking in Aug 16, 2015 I passed the 5-year milestone in May 2015! Side effects continue unabated for me, but it beats the alternative. Still alive, grateful to be here and loving life! Thank you all for being here. Checking in Jan 18, 2016, I passed the 5 1/2-year milestone in December 2015! Side effects continue unabated for me, no snot, no spit, no tears, but it beats the alternative. Still alive, still got teeth (mostly), grateful to be here and loving life! Thank you all for being here. Checking in January 15, 2018, Still Here! Still doing well! I'm still working and playing in the Sierra foothills of California. Still healthy, with no recurrances, but a few long-term side effects, as we all have. I hope everyone here has a happy and healthy 2018!

DaveJay, Geneva, Switzerland, joined 12-2013, enrolled 12-28-2013. DX’d Nov 2013 lingual tonsil spread to left lymph node. Surgery completed; Radiation/Chemo to start in January 2014.

Dazey, from New York. Enrolled January 31, 2010. DX’d SCC unknown primary in summer 2009. Finished treatment end of October 2009. Checked in October 23, 2012 and all remains clear NED! Checked in February 1, 2013 and NED continues. Check in Jan 17, 2014 Very pleased to report I continue with NED. Have had some interesting late blooming side effects (starting about 9 months ago) no sense of taste or smell; there is occasional swallowing difficulties and have had some dental issues but overall, doing very well and very happy to be able to check in here each year. No matter what, it is a blessing to be still here. Peace to all. Checking in Aug 17, 2015 Dx 6 years ago, tx finished the end of 10/09. NED continues (hooray), side effects continue(yuck), but doing, really, really, really well! Many thanks for continuing this thread. Check in July 29, 2016, It has been seven years since diagnosis. Wow, what a journey! I am doing very well with no recurrences. I do have annoying post treatment issues that are a constant reminder of this journey. I completed my treatment the end of October 2009. I am very grateful for all I have and can live with the post treatment issues. I have major dental issues since tx. - Full upper and we are working on the best pathway for lowers this month. I occasionally have difficulty chewing and swallowing - absolutely nothing y! Food is definitely not a highlight which is okay since I can no longer smell or taste. The only thing I can actually smell is Pine Sol........my house is really clean! After testing, the neurologist was unable to find out a reason for these losses and told me I just have bad luck. I prefer to think I have great luck and am very happy to have survived the dx and tx. Good wishes for all who are starting this path and those that are looking back on the journey. Checking in December 14, 2017 Very delighted to be able to update that I am still free and clear since the end of October 2009. Eight years since treatment, living with some side effects, but nothing that keeps me from living life! Best wishes for all who continue on this challenging journey. Good days and bad days, but so happy that I have days! Checking in, March 31, 2019, Very pleased to say I am still here, doing well, and continued NED. I was diagnosed and treated the end of 2009, so the end of this October will be 10 years.  Best wishes go to all who are struggling with this disease. There is hope, no matter what!

debbie10, from Britsh Columbia. Enrolled February 3, 2019 Dx’d tonsil cancer. Treatments started on July- Aug 2017..had a tough time with side effects, feeding tube, and getting on with life in general. Hard to believe it's been almost two years! Still can't shake this feeling of waiting for the other shoe to drop!  Checking in October 11, 2020. Hi CivilMatt. I am still here! 3 yrs and still have annoying side effects, but nothing that stops me from enjoying life.  Take care everyone Debbie10

Debi16043 (?), enrolled November 13, 2016. Scc gum cancer spread to mandible diagnosed 2011. I had 16 hour surgery MD Anderson. Removal of all teeth, and scc gum cancer that spread to mandible. Stage IV. Had 8 implants put in, free flap fibula to create new jaw bone. Radiation. Removal of 72 lymph nodes onone side. Staging was T4, N0, M0. Radiation complications to date include carotid artery stenosis but still working and killed thyroid so i take meds for that. Recovery went well but 3 years after initial surgery an xray found new jaw bone, fibula free flap, as well as titanium plate had broken in 2 places. Advised to redo surgery. Sept 7, 2016 i went thru same surgery again at MD Anderson this time using my other fibula. after week in hospital, one month with feeding tube... not even a drink of water for a month im finally recovering. Its been 2 months and feeding tube is removed along with my trach... my leg wound from fibula removal hasnt completely closed but im riding my bicycle again... im out and about attending football games.. leg is still sore.. not much feeling in top of foot or jaw. This time they replaced from under my right ear to one inch past chin, a large area.... feel free to ask me any questions. I’m not on here much but you can email me at debi16043@gmail.com with questions or if you want me to text a picture of what i look like after 1st surgery in 2011 and now following 2nd surgery in Sept 2016. 

debbiejeanne, Ohio, joined forum January 2010, enrolled July 11, 2010. DX’d larynx cancer in August 2009. Cancer returned in February 2,2012. Last check in June 23, 2013-doing well and NED in October 2012. Follow-up on 12-31-2013 on swallowing problem and nerve damage on left arm. Checking in July 26, 2015 It is a very rough road but its a fight you can win!! Hang tough! Check in Sep 2, 2016 still alive and doing ok for the most part. No health problems except depression. Somedays worse than others. This is a great place to be so if you've found your way here, you're in good hands. I don't check in much anymore but the people on this site are always in my prayers, even if i don't know you. God bless you and make you cancer free!!! Checking in February 28, 2019 Debbie Jeanne, doing well. 7 yrs. cancer free TODAY!! yay me. 8/2009 Larynx cancer. 35 rads no chemo. 2/2012, cancer came back. total laryngectomy. very rough road for the next 3 yrs. but today I’m happy to say, I am doing great. Like you, i still have many side effects, and i stretch my throat myself every other day to keep me able to eat. Wow, it has been too long since I've been here. I see all the names i recognize and I realize what I’ve been missing, my friends!! So to those who know me, it is so good to see you again. To the others, let me introduce myself, I'm Debbie and i look forward to getting to know each of you but i''m sorry you need to be here. God bless you all. Man, it is GREAT to be back!! Thank you CivilMatt!! Checking in December 30, 2019, hi, I am checking in. I live in the condo complex where i used to feed the stray cats until someone reported me and i was told to stop immediately. Oh, such is life. I will be 8 yrs cancer free on 2/28/20.  Happy new year all!!

Denistd (?) Enrolled Nov 2. 2015 Diagnosed March 2009 with stage III larynx cancer, had 35 IMRT blasts and 3 cisplatin Hi dose chemo. Told by ENT in July of 2014 he considered my larynx cancer cured, not having any problems with it, saliva good, did lose my teeth and thyroid croaked but all is well. Still under active surveillance for prostate cancer, have been since June 2013, cancer is stage one and has not grown at all in two years. Denistd. Checking in April 3, 2019, Still Here, had a radical cystectomy last November, not for cancer but bladder quit, took out prostate as well. Doing good right now.

Dennis (?) from Kansas, Something is missing, but not a bad post. Joined on January 23, (?back to the new normal. It has been a real fight but it is worth it as I can enjoy life again, so if your new and having problems the people on this site will do their best to help you.

Dlygoblue, from Texas, Joined forum March 2012, enrolled March 8, 2013. DX’d Olfactory Neuroblastoma in May 2011. Living cancer free.

Ditto1, (?). Joined forum March 2012. Posted on February 4, 2013 that it is almost one year since DX’d. Still here. DX with Base of Tongue stage 4 in March 2012. Chemo and Rads, no feeding tube. Kansas. I agree this site got me thru the treatments, along with God and my wife. Not sure what we would have done without it. Check in July 14, 2015. Checking -in Jan 8, 2016, still here.

Dolphinswa (?) Joined October 18, 2019 I had my two year anniversary (nasalphrengeal) in September too! I don't like sweets as well especially my old all-time favorite ice-cream like you. I've gained 36 pounds and actually have no need to gain the last 26 pounds because I'm now officially overweight by a couple of pounds. LOL, I went back to work last year but decided to retire because I no longer had the energy to teach 24 Kinder babies. I live in the land of leisure but bored out of my mind. So what do I decide to do? Volunteer to help teach 24 Kinder! I have many side effects but as long as I stay in remission, won't complain. I'm just so appreciative that I'm still here to support my children who aren't quite cooked yet. Gotta gnet the last one out of college. Blessings to everyone.

Donfoo, from California, joined forum December 2012, Enrolled in RC January 2014. Posted in 2013 Roll Call. DX’d BOT SCC T2N2bMx, Stage IVa, HPV+, multiple nodes, one tooth out. Tumor board-induction TPF (3 cycles), seq CRT Apr-June 2013. Fully recovered after six months and feeling great. Checking in July 29, 2015just crossed two years post tx. Overall in better shape mentally and physical than before. Got tight muscles in the neck and my head sweats now when eating hot stuff. Just hope the long-term side effects stay far away. Checking in February 28, 2016. March 2016 - Last visit with ENT moved check ins to 6 months, a good sign. Also confirmed that my BOT HPV+ diagnosis puts me at 3 years out past the main worry about recurrence. Whew!!!! Tight neck muscles still a near daily issue. Big improvement on eating "hot". Yippee. back to tolerance for hot - Love it. Still getting head sweats on hot-hot but not bad. All in all - everyday, thank God for good fortune! Don. Check in Aug. 29, 2016, doing fine at 3 years post. Crossed the 3 year post mark in June 2016. Doing great and living large every day! Checking in July 2017 - 4 years post June 2017. Fibrosis in the neck still a pain in the neck. Otherwise, still doing great and living large every day! Bought a motor home and taking some trips. Checking in July 16, 2018 (5 years NED – cured!) Passed the 5 years post early June 2018. NED so all good. New normal = old normal except for one long term side effect. That is, tightness along the neck muscle from ear, through jaw, to shoulder on side where radiated. Regular neck stretching and jawing (big yawns) settles things down. Enjoy every single day, never take today or tomorrow for granted. Life is great! Checking in February 24, 2019 Passed 5 years last summer. Nothing has changed except older. Very thankful that I'm living well, enjoying life each day, no meds, and the only long term side effect is the fibrosis in the neck and jaw area. Even thyroid seems to be holding up. Checking in October 6, 2020, Hi Matt, Thanks for keeping the roll call going. Not much change for me since checking in last year. Live is good and enjoy every day. Checking in October 24, 2021. Ditto the last one. Just older, healthy, and enjoying life. Only long term side effect is the neck and jaw fibrosis. Thyroid still hanging in there too.

Downinthemouth, from Nevada. Enrolled February 18, 2016 Caregiver. Husband was diagnosed 12-31-2015. He has base of tongue, left lymph nodes and left tonsil stage IV. He has just completed his 18th radiation treatment of 35. 5th chemo of 7. . It's hard to see him in such pain, unable to eat and enjoy food (which was one of his favorite things to do). We moved to a small community two years ago after retiring. We have some good friends but none that really understand what is involved with this type of cancer. I'm hoping to find some help in how to deal with different situations. I thought I would reach out to those who have lived with this type of cancer and those who have been the caretakers.

Dr.Ed, from New York but lives in Texas. Joined forum January 2013, enrolled February 11, 2013. DX’d Stage IV, BOT, tonsils, throat and nodes (HPV driven). Treatment completed and tough road at this time on road to recovery.

Duggie88, Pennsylvania, joined forum February 2010, enrolled May 8, 2013, DX’d throat cancer November 22, 2009. At the Hospital at the University of Pennsylvania I had a full neck dissection a week before Christmas removing part of my tongue, epiglottis, lymph nodes, and uvula. Radiation February 16, 2010 through March 30, 2010. January 2015 I was told I was cured but my wife reminded me and the Doc only of cancer. Enjoying the day and look forward to tomorrow. I have often said it was the hardest thing I ever had to endure in my life but if I can do it anybody can do it. I now live happily ever after spending the kid’s inheritance. Life is good .Check in Jan 13, 20114, July 14, 2015. Checking in Jan 13, 2016, THE GOOD THE BAD AND THE UGLY. Trying not to be good because as Billy Joel sad only the good die young. Doing my best to be old, bad and ugly as I battle cancer for the second time, this time prostate. Jeff. Checking in March 1, 2019 I am doing well. Last year they found by accident that my throat cancer spread to my right lung which means I was told three times now I have cancer. ( I am hoping I don't run out of fingers and toes to count on) So in July of 2018 I received 6 new tattoos and began radiation soon after. They took care of the spot but two others showed up which they thought was from the radiation and the end of January of this year I am spotless. However, since the cancer did come back they told me I will never be cured and they will have to monitor me for the rest of my life. (Now they have their work cut out for them) I will try to swing by more often and throw in my $.03 (inflation)Enjoy the day................. I do................. every one of them. 

Thanks CivilMatt

Dunedintech, Singapore, joined forum 04-2013, enrolled 12-16-2013. DX’d 01-07-2013 SCC front left of tongue. 27 lymph nodes removed. Lost 23 kg (50.6 lbs) during treatment. NED on 04-09-2013. Ticking along OK as at 15 July 15. Check in July 14, 2015. Checking in February 28, 2016 - Still based in Singapore. Had a checkup recently and all NED. Three year scans / MRIS etc in March so hoping all trending NED. Don't post as much as I used too but still read the boards daily. One day at a time.

dvr99174, from Florida. Enrolled Oct. 20, 2016, Stage 1 squamous cell cancer behind and below left ear behind jaw bone. In May I was diagnosed, didn't get surgery until August 9th. I lost 30lbs because I could not open my mouth enough for solid food. I lived on ensure and yogurt...... Yum i had a second surgery on September 13 to repair tissue damage, my jaw bone was exposed. I had a tissue graft from my left chest to replace what was taken during surgery. Also, had tissue taken from my left temple for repair during the 2nd surgery. this Tuesday I start my radiation treatment. 

Ekdennie, from Oklahoma. Enrolled January 17, 2011. DX Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of hard palate w/growth into maxillary sinus-June 30, 2010. Enrolled on January 17, 2011. Checked in January 7, 2013 & doing great w/no sign of regrowth. Welcome back! Check in Jan 16, 2014 I am still doing great! I had a couple of scary moments and had to undergo extra tests, but everything appears to be fine! no sign of regrowth and I am working with my new normal. Check in Jan 9, 2015 I am still doing great! I have had some issues with narrowing of my esophagus, but I am doing well...busy enjoying being a mom and wife!

Elaineh, from Texas. Enrolled July 21, 2015, diagnosed with Stage III SCCA right piriform sinus in March 2014. underwent two courses induction chemo with 5FU, cisplatin and taxeotere then seven weeks of carboplatin and radiation. NED since YEA !!! bad side effects of treatment include 45 pound weight loss, laryngitis, recurrent aspiration pneumonia and replacement of feeding tube. I've had nothing but ice chips by mouth for one month. Inability to talk and eat or drink have led to social isolation and depression. Really enjoy this site. It gives me great hope to see how all others have dealt with adversity!!

Elenanic (?). Enrolled January 15, 2018, I just wanted to say hi. I am glad I've found you! You are giving me hope...When one finds out the diagnostic one fears the worst...:(Tears every day...But learning to thank God for the gift of life He offered me! I was diagnosed with MEC (hard palate) in October 2017 after a second surgery. The first surgery followed by a biopsy showed a benign lesion or maybe a lot of incompetence... The first wound never healed and after 6 months I went to the Hospital and asked them: what on earth is happening with me, why there is still a lesion in my mouth and not a scar. They removed it immediately and analyzed it by 2 laboratory-carcinoma was confirmed. They say it was low grade with no neural invasion. Unfortunately, the margins were less than 1 mm. You know what this means...I am so afraid that my lymph nodes were affected. I am very much aware about every breath I am taking about every little pain or small twitch that appears anywhere in my body. Sometimes I get a bit dizzy or itchy-and a thought crosses my mind: could it be a recurrences? We do not have clear protocols in our country and I trust not so many people to talk about this. I haven't told anyone at work and I do not intend to let them know about that due the stigma cancer induces and due to all that negativity and compassion that I cannot handle properly for the time being. I wish I hear more from those who had a low grade MEC of the hard palate and didn't remove it immediately. Are you OK now? I have lived with it for as long as 18 months- starting from the first day I became aware that I had a cyst on the upper side of my mouth that appeared out of nowhere. (It didn't give any symptom until December 2016 when it burst causing me a lot of pain for about 2 to 3 days). Ending with the second surgery which will be probably followed by a third one due to positive margins. All the best to all of you

ERomanO, from Ohio. Enrolled September1, 2018. My GP noticed swollen glands at my yearly physical in Jan 2018. Two weeks later there was increased swelling of lymph nodes, followed by multiple needle biopsies, then finally a diagnosis in March - SCC on BOT, HPV+. RO told me that had I been diagnosed prior to Jan 2018 I would have been considered Stage IV, but due to their success rate in treating and eradicating my cancer was considered Stage I. I began my 35 rads and 3 rounds of cisplatin on April 30 and finished on June 18. As I've said elsewhere, treatments were a relative breeze. I had the constant foaming saliva and horrible phlegm, but swallowing was never a problem (until the 5 days following my last treatment). In fact, up through my 7th week I still enjoyed 4 eggs and a pile of bacon for breakfast every day. But I was still hard pressed to get my 2000 calories a day and was essentially on an Adkins diet because all carb foods tasted awful. I lost 30 pounds through the summer, but my taste buds roared back to within 80% rather quickly and I've gained almost all that lost weight back. Ongoing side effects have been a roller coaster, and even daily they tend to wax and wane, but overall I feel quite good.

EsGirl (wife), husband (patient), from outside of DC, Enrolled on February 14, 2020 (Happy Valentine’s day to Danika Hi Everyone, We are cancer newbies and looking for any advice/tips we can get. My husband’s location is a weird one, SCC in the nasolacrimal duct.

He had his surgery 12 weeks ago and just finished up radiation with chemo (cisplatian) 4 weeks ago. We live outside of Wash. DC with our two youngest ones (10 & 13) and our two older boys are not too far away at college in VA. The side effects of everything are really getting to him. Usually he is super positive and very funny. Lately he has understandably been a bit depressed. He also has been having a lot of side effects. Tear drainage, nose issues, loss of taste, forgetfulness, night sweats, nausea, I guess the usual fun stuff. Any advice/tips you have are greatly appreciated!) Thanks, Danika

Estelle, (?) Enrolled Aug 13, 2015. Still alive. Civilmatt would like a little more information, pretty please.

Eversteve, (?) checking in June 27 2015 Excellent idea. Do you mind if I join the club? CivilMatt says “Not if you share a little bit about yourself”.

FamilyLov, (?) Enrolled November 6, 2017 Stage 1V tonsillar squamous cell carcinoma. One lymph node. Diagnosed Jan 2016. Radiation twice a day (64 total) 2 Cisplatin. Lost 50 lbs. Had to have feeding tube for about one year. My throat closed up from radiation and I have had multiple egd's with dilatation. I still get them every 4 months or so to keep it open. I also have trouble opening my jaw. I can't eat a lot of the foods I used to love but I am grateful for what I am able to eat. Mostly soft foods with lots of water. Hopefully one day it will be back to normal. I All pet scans came back NED. I am thankful for every day I have with my family.

Fire34, (?) Enrolled January 21, 2016, 6 years post, SCC unknown primary HPV+, clinical trial at the University of Chicago. Trial consisted of 8 weeks induction chemo with Erbitux and taxol. Followed by weekly Erbitux and 5 alternating weeks of twice daily radiation (don’t know the dose) with 120 hrs of 5FU and hydroxyurea.

My side effects were numerous I was never home for the 5 weeks I should have been. The 18 weeks total I was in treatment I believe I made it home for maybe 5 days. PEG tube, dual lumen port etc. Wish I would have found this site while going thru treatment. Wishes & prayers for all still going thru treatment Checking in November 17, 2016 Still checking in once and a while 7 years post now, everything is going fine now, still a little dry from time to time.

Fisrpotpe, from Illinois. Joined forum August 2010, enrolled December 29, 2010. Dx’ed SCC 5 golf sized node around carotid on January 19, 1996, radionecrosis, or radiation necrosis

of pharynx in July 11, 2008, SCC back of tongue on February 5, 2009, broken neck March 5, 2006 in accident. Reported by

Longtermsurvivor on October 25, 2011 that he is still around. Checked in January 4, 2012. Had 4 teeth removed, 4 checkups and continued NED. Updated Feb 1. 2013. Checking in Jan 15, 2014 Had 4 teeth removed, 4 checkups and continued NED. Update as of 1-15-2014, the year 2013 was not all that fun.... teeth are really bad, a couple i had removed 3-4 years ago have now lead to necrosis of the mandible. soon to be 18 years on the 19th. Checking in July 21, 2015 (fisrpotpe = forced into semi-retirement put out to pasture early), last checkup showed nothing to be concerned about with cancer

Fishmanpa"T", from Virginia. Joined forum January 2013, enrolled February 1, 2013. Diagnosed Nov 2012 - SCC dx N2b Stage IV HPV+ , Selective neck dissection - 23 nodes removed two cancerous - 6 weeks chemo 30 rads. Treated at Johns Hopkins Feb - April 2013. 2 years post April 24th - Still NED. Positive thoughts and prayers. Check in July 13, 2015. Checking in Jan 13, 2016, Still Kicking! a little over 2.5 years out....doing OK. I go next month for my 6 month follow-ups and expect to say hi to Mr. NED. Living life in the "new normal". Positive thoughts and prayers. Checking in February 29, 2016, NED as of Feb. 2016. Going on three years out (4-24-2016) and doing well. next "poke, scope and prod" August 2016. Positive thoughts and prayers."T". Checking in April 26, 2017, Yesterday 4-24-17 was my 4 year anniversary finishing treatment. I'm NED. I have 2 more appointments. One in Sept. and then in Feb 2018 at which point I will be deemed "cured". Side effects are rough at times but it sure beats the alternative! :) Positive thoughts and prayers. Checking in September 10, 2019 I had my two year anniversary (nasopharyngeal

) in September too! I don't like sweets as well especially my old all-time favorite ice-cream like you. I've gained 36 pounds and actually have no need to gain the last 26 pounds because I'm now officially overweight by a couple of pounds. LOL. I went back to work last year but decided to retire because I no longer had the energy to teach 24 Kinder babies. I live in the land of leisure but bored out of my mind. So what do I decide to do? Volunteer to help teach 24 Kinder! I have many side effects but as long as I stay in remission, won't complain. I'm just so appreciative that I'm still here to support my children who aren't quite cooked yet. Gotta get the last one out of college. Blessings to everyone.

Flyfisherman (?) Joined the H&N forum in November 2015. Enrolled in the Roll Call on January 21, 2016. dx SCC base of the tongue. Partial Neck Disection surgery at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (tonsils and 5 lymph nodes) with 6 rounds of Chemo (Cisplatin) and 30 rounds of radiation. Completed the process on June 23 2015. So far, all is good with a Dr visit earlier today and a wonderful nose scope! I am truly blessed to be here and it's all thanks to the wonderful care I have received and the support of my family and friends.

Fritz from Georgia. Enrolled Sep. 2, 2016 Diagnosed March 1, 2016 with Stage IVA Tonsil Cancer (T2N2aM0) with spread to base of tongue ,soft palate and nearby lymph node. Surgery on April 20, 2016 to remove tumor and both tonsils as well as modified radical neck dissection to remove 24 lymph nodes on tumor side. Began Cisplatin infusions along with 33 radiation treatments on June 1, 2016. Finished all treatments on July 15, 2016. Checking in April 26, 2017, Approximately 1 year since surgeries and 9 months since last chemo/rad treatment (you can check my story on my profile page). So far so good. Latest ENT appointment (4/12/17) shows NED. Saliva is still very thick but able to eat about anything as long as I have plenty of liquids to chase it down. Back at pre-diagnosis weight. Have had multiple teeth break due to radiation side effects (3 new crowns in 4 months). Checking in July 12, 2017 Annual PET - NED! Updating status to 1 year cancer free - annual PET scan resulted in the "all clear". Checking in July 17, 2018, (2 years post treatment) Just Checking in. Stage IVa Tonsil (spread into nearby node, soft palate and tongue). 2 years post treatment (7/15/16 last treatment). Last ENT on 6/13/18 and "all clear" given. Hope the best for all!! Checking in, March 11, 2019. Freddie here checking in approximately 3 years from initial diagnosis of what was Stage IVA tonsil cancer (old staging). Last official radiation/chemo treatment was 7/15/16. Just concluded ENT visit this morning and visual with scope still shows NED. Same long term issues as many others. Thick saliva makes for a challenge but plenty of fluids on hand allows me to eat most anything. Life is good every day you are able to arise. For all those on this site, here's wishing you well.

frokker68, from Arizona moving to Northern California, April 2017 DX with stage 4 SSC base of tongue and one lymph node on both sides of my neck. Completed 7 weekly doses of Cisplatin along with 35 RADS. Treatment ended June 29 2017. I had my 3 month checkup in October with a CT and PET scan. Scans showed no tumor/cancer, but one node was still enlarged. Went for needle biopsy, ended up getting a punch biopsy of said node. Came back as dead tissue, no cancer. If there was a side effect from treatment, I got 'em all! I was on a feeding tube for about 4 months. It was removed a couple weeks ago. I am 4 1/2 months out from treatment and still struggle with tongue pain, painful swallowing, Pain all around my neck area. Stiffness, soreness. Sore jaws and only open about 1 inch. Ringing in my ears, Lhermittes Sign (This is a strange one. When I bend my neck down, I feel a shock sensation down my spine, legs and to my feet. ) Still hacking up phlemn. Ugh. The radiation also helped close up my left carotid artery. So now I have to have a stent put in. And the ENT DOC wants me to do hyperbaric chamber. Can’t start that just yet. It'll have to wait until after stent surgery. Otherwise, I am doing okay and just thankful to alive. I also have decided to retire from work and enjoy life without that stress. I am only 49 but this cancer adventure gave me a new perspective on life. Checking in February 14, 2019 “Hey Matt” Good to see you again! I'm still here but not as often. Hope all is well.

gdawg55, from South Carolina. Enrolled Jan 2, 2016. I was diagnosed Oct 2014 with Stage 2 tonsil cancer on my left tonsil (squamous cell carcinoma). I had surgery on Dec 31 2014 to remove my tonsils as well as had a neck dissection to look at my lymph nodes. No cancer was found in my lymph nodes and they were able to get good margins around my tonsil so I didn't have any other treatments. I just passed my 1 year anniversary and I'm NED. Upon analysis of my tumor after surgery they changed me from Stage 2 to Stage 1 so I guess the tumor wasn't as large as first thought. I was fortunate to have caught the cancer early. Good Lord willing, hope it's gone forever. Checking in OCTOBER 15, 2019 Going on 5 years NED since my diagnosis. Thank the Lord all is good so far. God Bless!!

Geezer (OM) From Florida. Joined in 2006, dx’d with Tonsilar cancer.

Goalie, DC/Maryland area, DX’d unknown but checked in on February 5, 2013 that was treated two years prior to this posting. Doing well except needing water and an increasing stiff neck condition.

Section 9 of 9

ROLL CALL 2021 - First posting December 9, 2021

CiviMatt note: May They Rest In Peace is an area where I could use H&N members help. I do know of a few members who have passed and I will be adding their names to this list soon. I dare say, there are most likely more names that some of you (reading this) may know. If you share this information with me, I would be happy to add them to our list.

Head and Neck Members

May They Rest In Peace

(I have tried to make this more personal to those of us who knew those members (no longer with us). I tried to pick out a few comments by Head and Neck members which describe how many of us felt about our dear, departed friends.

accordiongirl Posted on May 19, 2019 that her Mon had passed away on Friday May 17, 2019 from her diagnosis of throat cancer. “She was doing quite well, considering she chose to forgo treatment back in September when she was diagnosed. A week ago, we were all at her apartment eating "Mother's Day" cake - and even mom was able to eat it. (She had some issues with getting certain foods down.) And now she's gone. It's an awful loss for me and my kids and husband. Even so......i am SO grateful that she didn't endure months of torturous pain (she had NO pain in her throat, even though that's where the tumor was) or lose weight to the point of being unrecognizable. Mom LIVED her last 9 months and saw so much of our lives and shared so many events and memories. i am going to miss her more than i think i can even fathom”. As expressed by wbcgaruss, “Deepest Sympathy. It is hard to see parents go but in your situation knowing your time was limited made the very best of it and had some great times with your mom. I pray for comfort and strength for your family in the days ahead-God Bless”. As expressed by Caregiver wife, You have been a great daughter for your mother. Bless your family, Crystal. As expressed by swopoe, “I am so sorry for your loss. May your mother‘ s memory be a blessing to you and your family. “

Bany, Canada, 2008, Dad (TR2), SCC of the maxil lary sinus. Enrolled on July 30, 2009.. Dad completed treatment 03-2009, Dad lost 70 pounds. Bany later reported that dad passed away on 11-02-2009.

BarefootBob. There is no record of enrollment, but reported by CivilMatt on 12-13-2013 that he passed away on January 7, 2013. As expressed by CivilMatt ‘This H&N member was really cool, he endeared himself to you when he opened up and talked about his cancer. The Cancer took over his body rather quickly which moved him into this section of the Roll Call. always ended a post with “his love”, he will forever be one of my dear H&N friemds I have made on this forum”. He was (AE) by CM with HAWVET’S permission.

Buzz99 (Buzz) As reported by his wife on Aug 23, 2012. “Buzz passed away August 19, at home. I was at his side. His tongue cancer recurred in May and despite palliative chemo, the cancer still grew. He was placed on Hospice a month ago. I want to thank everyone on the forum who helped me through the difficult times during his treatment and illnesses. God bless you all.”

Calcat Reported by Longtermsurvivor January 17, 2014.” Calcat lived in California.

Catluver96 passed away in March. Mets to bone in pelvis and leg. Also in brain. Reported by KTeacher May 22, 2014. she died last year following a long battle. I received an email from her husband a few months back to memorialize her passing. She was a fighter, not well known to most people here, as she didn't post often, preferring time in her flower garden.”

debbiejeanne The news of Debbie’s passing on January 25, 2021 was sent to CivilMatt by wmc. As expressed by wmc, I had doubts it was the person I knew because of the names used. But the photos confirmed it was debbiejeanne. It hit me hard. She was the first to welcome me to the H&N forum and she encouraged my decision to start and run my own support group which I did start in February of 2018. She was very active in another group and helped in the administration of it. I knew she recently had a setback but it is always a surprise when a friend passes. As expressed by CivilMatt we were both busy with the H&N form, she started back around 2010 with a very active group and continued to trade emails with me until a few months before her death. I found her to be very nice and I was glad she stayed in touch with me.

Delnative Delaware, Diagnosed Stage III SCC Right tonsil in 2008. Enrolled February 2, 2010. As reported by Skiffin16 that “MarineE5 had found out that he had passed away on Feb 25, 2012, at home, of metastatic head and neck cancer caused by the human papilloma virus”. He was 57. As expressed by ratface, “as he was a professional writer I always found his wit and prose to be refreshing and right on point. I raise my cognac to you, goodbye dear fellow! “ As expressed by davidgskinner “that is very sad news. He was a very uplifting and positive force. His posts made me feel better many, many times.” As expressed by Glenna M “I've had a hard time getting the waterworks to stop since hearing about his passing. He was such a sweet caring man and one of the first people I met when I joined here. “ As expressed by D Lewis “Thank you for all the encouragement you gave me as I traveled this path. Your wit, humor and stylish fedora sustained me.”

edie201 Reported by his wife June 21, 2016. “Good evening: This is my first post regarding drug trials. My husband, who had stage IV metastatic head and neck cancer, joined a phase one drug trial involving Keytruda and incye 02436 at the U. of Penn. Cncer center in February 2016. Within three weeks he was hospitalized and dropped 15-pounds during his six day stay in the U. of Penn. Hospital. The drugs made him very sick and no one was concerned he had lost 15-pounds except me. He was dropped from the trial and died on May 5,2016.” As expressed by swopoe, “I am so sorry for the loss of your husband. He was a hero. We will recognize him for his contribution. Thank you from me to him”

EricaA Reported by her daughter Oct 28, 2012. “Hello everyone. I just wanted to let you all know the sudden and devastating update about my mom. She passed away yesterday morning. I found her on her bed, slumped over. I was home with her and had just spoken to her about an hour prior to finding her. My sister had called and talked to her as well. We do not know the cause of death, and since my mom did not want an autopsy, we may never know. She had been doing good and as I told you all her first PET Scan results showed that the mass that was in her neck was gone. It also showed a small spot on her liver, which she was scheduled to have a biopsy for tomorrow. For the short time that I've been on here, I really appreciate the support and kind words. My mom appreciated it as well.”

Frank 10G Reported by Hondo January 14, 2014 Frank 10G passed away last year, “he was a good man who did all he could to fight this C but in the end he lost the battle. “

Glenna M, New Hampshire, enrolled on January 31, 2010. DX’d SCC laryngeal and NSCLC Aden carcinoma in left lung in May 2009, Checked in January 16, 2012. Just finished chemo and waiting to start clinical trial w/Sinutinub for recurrence of NSCLC now in both lungs. No problems w laryngeal after 2 ½ years. Unfortunately, she lost her battle six months later in July 2012. May she RIP. Reported by Skiffin16 on February 1, 2013. As expressed by Skiffin16 “I remember the times talking to Glenna of the birds playing outside her windows on snowy mornings. Of her dogs that she loved so much..her grandchildren, her husband....I'll miss those conversations.” As expressed by Pam M, “Her passing brings home the notion that dying because of cancer does not mean you've failed. Most of us know that Glenna M has succeeded in many ways, love of family and others and enjoyment of life”.

GreenD Reported by Skiffin16 on Jul 6, 2013 that “GD passed away January 5th of this year...GD was a special guy.... He served many years in the Air Force and retired a Major..I had the pleasure of meeting him and his wife on a trip of theirs to Floirda... My wife and I met them at the beach for lunch with his wife... GD was one of those unfortunates that was on a feeding tube for life after treatment...He was one heck of a guy, and I'm glad I got to meet him and have a beer together. Thoughts and prayers to his family.”..Expressed by phrannie, “I always loved his sense of humor....he rarely posted anything that didn't elicit a smile from me. “ As expressed by Ingid K “He was a great inspiration to many of us. I loved to hear his stories about what he tried (and succeeded) to put thru his PEG.”

Hondo Louisiana, Honduras. Reported by his daughter on April5, 2017. “I wanted to let everyone know that he passed away Monday. He has been struggling with pneumonia from aspirations since August. He was hospitalized about a month ago and since then was just unable to bounce back. I know you all meant so much to him and gave him so much support and uplifting during his struggles.” As expressed by Tim6003 “You will be missed, your faith was contagious, thank you for that faith and your kindness to all of us who looked to you often for feedback and advice.” As expressed by ratface “Perhaps the most welcoming person with endless kindness to offer, we had become friends on the boards thru the years, so sorry for your loss.” As expressed by Grandmax4 “It is with great sadness, I read of Hondo's passing. I don't believe I've ever had the pleasure of knowing (through CSN ) such a gentle man, but, a fighter for life until the end. He loved his family. My deepest sympathy to his family and friends)”.

Hunpot, Massachusetts, Mom passed away, August 18, 2008 (Squamous cell carcinoma top voice box). Checked in Jan 2009.

Jagged, Washington, Diagnosed Breast 2005-Esophagus 2007 and lungs 2008. Enrolled on October 29, 2010. Checked in on March 29, 2010. Unconfirmed that she may have passed away.

Jan Trinks reported on Aug 23, 2010, I have very sad news to report. “Charlie passed away Sat. night Aug. 21. He had a gi bleed; low blood pressure, electrolyte issues, low blood counts, severely dehydrated. He was admitted Thursday afternoon and was doing better; but on Sat. began having problems breathing and they had to keep pushing fluids to keep blood pressure up….. I loved him so much and do not know how I'll get along without him but will find some way as that is would he would have me to do…. Just wanted to let y'all know and please keep us in your prayers as I know you will and to everyone out there "Don't ever give up!" Fight this monster with all your might and God's help! I love y'all”! As expressed by Kimba1505 “This is the first post you did not sign as "Jan and Charlie". Hearing your pain, wondering how you will go on without him, it is clear what a very sad and difficult time this is. I believe there will always be "Jan and Charlie". As always on these message boards, when we rejoice, we do it together, when we go through treatment or a procedure, we are together, Jan, as you face this loss, we are together”.

Jcortney Texas Reported by phrannie51 on March 10, 2017 that she saw on Facebook where Joe had passed away at the end of January. As expressed by phrannie51 “He was a rock for me when I had the recurrence last year....a positive and very humorous guy”. As expressed by donfoo, “So sorry to hear. We were on the same bus, nearly identical profile, treatment. I followed in his footsteps. As our "new normals" veered off, I always hoped and prayed his journey would veer back onto the tarmac. So sad”.

jim and i reported by his wife on April 18, 2015. Shortly after the original post “He breathing started to change and he breathed his last breath soon after. I believe his spirit left before the last breath because I felt the most awful pain in my heart. Even though I thought it would be a relief, it was devastating when the nurse said, "He's gone." I say, "Gone from my sight, but still in my heart.". Bless you Debbie.

KareGiver Reported by his wife, Thank you for starting this thread (HPV). I check in occasionally and will be upfront right now - my husband did not survive this cancer - passed January 2013. Saying that, he had throat problems for YEARS before and was treated by ENTs for acid reflux. I have had absolutely NO problem telling people, when asked, what type of cancer he had (when you say throat, they assume smoking was involved, of course). Some people mistake HPV for HIV - although that is becoming less frequent. We MUST continue to educate people about this - especially men. My husband was diagnosed in 2011. Things have come a long way and I have great faith that you will live a long life. Best to you and your famiy during treatment. You got this!

Kritter, Louisiana, as reported by Hondo on February 27, 2016, “Hi everyone I am sorry to inform you all that our friend Kritter passed away last night and she was a wonderful person to know. Please keep her husband and family in all your prayers, God bless you all”. As expressed by MrsBD “She went through so much yet kept her sense of humor. Last year she turned her radiation mask into a decoration for Mardi Gras. May God be with her family as he now holds her in his arms”. As expressed by wmc “Yes this is very sad news. She fought so hard to beat it, and was such a wonderful person. Heaven has another Angel”.

KTeacher California, As reported by phrannie51 on February 1, 2016 that KTeacher passed away on January 19th. As expressed by Grandmax4 “RIP Kindergarden T, you fought a hard and long fight, but, still lent encouragement and kindness to others”. As expressed by MrsBD “She truly was a role model. Kind, wise, and always encouraging”. As expressed by CivilMatt “Bev was one of my most beloved, trusted and favorite members I have met here on the H&N forum. She will be fondly remembered and greatly missed”.

Ladylacy (caregiver to Husband) Georgia. Checking in for husband, diagnosed with laryngeal cancer in 2010. Ladylacy posted on July 25, 2015 “My husband lost his battle this morning. He fought hard for 5 years. I am so thankful that it was peaceful and he is now at peace. Now the changes begin for me as I had him for 55 years for which I am thankful.” 

Lelia As reported by Buckwirth on Oct 4,2011, “Don Passed away unexpectedly on 9-15”. “He was a lawyer and, among other things, specialized in drug laws. One of the last things he did (and while he was in treatment for H&N) was an interview with the staff attorney at Drug Policy Alliance”. As expressed by skiffin16 “So sorry to hear....always like losing a family member”.

Lisam61 As reported by Hondo on May 12, 2010 “Hi Everyone I don’t know if you remember “Lisam61” but I am sitting here very sad tonight hearing that her husband Luis has passed away a few weeks ago, please continue to keep her in your prayers. As you remember his NPC cancer was treated but then they found it in his chest. He was taking Chemo and got an infection in his PEG tube that they did not see until it was to late”. As expressed by MarineE5, “unfortunately, those of us here, will continue to look over our shoulders for the enemy we have had to deal with. But, we go on, with our scars from the battle. By doing so, we continue to give hope to those that hear the words " You Have Cancer " for the first time. We continue to be on patrol to guide the new members through this rough path”. As expressed by sweetblood22 “I think you guys were the first two to welcome me here. I appreciate it. :) I tend to get a bit anxious at times and I am glad that I have the people here to keep me off the pity path for too long anyway. You guys always seem to have the knack of saying the right and caring thing. Thanks. And thank you to everyone here. You have all given me a better quality of life”.

Littlemisskitty (caregiver to Mother) “My mom passed away on January 5th, 2016”.

“She was told at Thanksgiving time after a PET scan she encouraged that she would have a year if she participated in trials. After a second opinion She was told she did not have a year left and instead her file said 2 weeks. She was not supposed to make it to the new year. The doctor wanted to release her to a rehab facility (no idea why) but I instead called hospice and had it set up so they would come to the house. Within 4 hours we had a special hospital bed, a suction machine, bed pans and pads, oxyfast, and a nebulizer all set up and she was brought home. My sister was able to spend the day along with her two children with mom that Friday, the day after she came home. She drank (mostly coughed up) eggnog to celebrate the new year, sat with the children spending time with them, sat with Rachel talking with her and had a pretty good day. On Saturday she sat with me and talked for hours. She even drank a full bottle throughout the day of ensure, talked of how she wanted a special recliner chair like grandma's to sit in so she could rest her broken leg on it (they had only put a removable cast on her so walking wasnt possible) and how she had planned to beat their two weeks odds). Sunday she slept most of the day as they decided even though oxyfast was working perfectly, that she should be on morphine to help her breathing. They put her on a morphine pump Saturday night and she barely woke up on Sunday but Sunday night she heard my dad's voice. She called out to him and he sat with her and talked with her until she fell back asleep. That was the last time she awoken. She was courageous and a fighter until the end when she slipped into a coma only to die hours later. She is greatly missed by her family. Thank you so much for your support and help. Having people who had gone through radiation and chemo before and who had gone through the steps had helped both myself and mom greatly. I hope you continue to help others who get this terrible disease and help others to conquer it”. As expressed by wmc “Over my lifetime I have heard so many people regret they never got to say, I love you, or even goodbye. You got that chance, and you were there. I do wish you and your family Peace, as you are part of this family as well

Little One (This death notice was posted on May 26, 2016.) dx’d with SCC in October 2015. He had surgery to remove what we could, then Chemo and radiation. He lost his fight June 15, 2016. He was a Viet Nam Vet and served In Country. I applied with the VA and have given them all they have asked for, yet they turned me down. They said it isn't on the list of presumptive cancers, yet it should fall under the soft tissue cancers. I have read in one of these Forums on here that it has been fought and won...but I have no clue how to get started. I know I didn't explain that right. I tend to get anxious when I talk about it. If anyone can point me in the right direction, or give me some links to look at...any help would be greatly appreciated. Little One. As expressed by MarineE5, “I want to extend my condolences to you and all your family on the passing of your Husband/ Vietnam Veteran. I was there in 68/69”. As expressed by Chicklette, “I just want to express my heartfelt condolences on your loss. I thank your husband for his service”. As expressed by CivilMatt, “I am saddened to hear of your husband’s passing from this terrible disease. I am not much help with your other question; I just wanted to say I am sorry”. As expressed by Tonita “my condolences as well. Good luck in finding what you need”. (Please) Note: MarineE5 continued on with his response and provided Little One with the much needed information she was seeking. Thank you MarineE5 for going above and beyond and for your military service to this country and to the H&N forum.

LongTermSurvivor (aka a real doctor to the H&N forum) passed away February 10, 2015 at 6:00 a.m. as reported by his wife. She said “he NEVER complained one day of his life or felt sorry for himself. He battled this since 1998 and then the recurrences began in 2010. He was the most wonderful spouse, father, grandfather, physician, brother, son. I have for the 15 years of our marriage admired his strength and ability to reach out to others and offer his assistance. I was so glad that he was able to help those that reached out to him. He so wanted to truly help. At this time. I am taking Pat's life insurance to form a foundation for Neck Cancer named after Pat. I feel led to carry on what could be a memorial to him forever. Pat was my hero and he is greatly missed. It is a daily struggle for all of us. But, his presence is felt”. As expressed by CivilMatt I only knew LTS for a brief few years but, he always made time for my quotations, often sending me PM to go over my issues. He loved to hike around the trails where he lived and I would follow him on Google Earth and other internet sites to show my interest in what he was doing. I know of other H&N members who played chess with him. This was a once-in-a-lifetime friendship which all the members of this forum who knew him, experienced”.

luv4lacrosse Missouri passed away on March 9, 2015. As expressed by Greg53, “I know he was greatly admired on this site, for his toughness and compassion. Luckily for me I was able to see this firsthand as we met on a regular basis” As expressed by katenorwood, “He was a gentle soul on site here, giving many inspiration to continue the battle”. As expressed by phrannie51 “He was such a fighter, and always so positive. His words helped me out many times during treatment and after. Rest in peace Mike”.

Meegs As reported by Goyca on May 15, 2015, “I am so sorry to tell you that our friend Meegs passed away on May14, 2015 at the age of 29. Her fight started with esthesioneurblastoma but then the reoccurrence reached her brain and then spinal cord….I glad that I met her here and chatted with her over the past year, she was such an inspiration and supported each other during our fights. u should all know her smile never left her face. Such a hero….please lets all pray for this beautiful soul. She is our angel now”. As expressed by KTeacher “So sorry to hear this news. She was so young. I am glad that you were able to connect with her. I do not like cancer. (I don't swear, but this would be a good time)”.

MOM674, Passed away in December 2008. Was a brief member, fought hard…reported by knobby.

Mswijik, New York, husband diagnosed laryngeal stage IV - September 2010, enrolled January 16, 2010. Report on March 6, 2011 that he passed away on February 17, 2011.

Newbride as reported by his wife on Dec 12, 2009 “Thank you to everyone on the board. I just wanted to let you know that sadly, my husband passed away at 3:00 a.m. this morning. I don't think I could have gotten through the past several months without all of you”. As expressed by Dazey, “May the angels surround you with their wings and may old friends and new ones, help you through this difficult time”. As expressed by KentCass , “all of our hearts are with you”. As expressed by Scambuster, “I have just now retraced your journey and am so sorry to hear your news. This horrible disease does not discriminate and your story has touched me and made me more grateful for each day and I am so much more thankful for my outcome from treatments”.

Nick770 Ohio. Joined forum May 2012, enrolled August 30, 2013. Reported by TheOtherDitto on June 7, 2014 “Facebook postings indicate that Nick770 (Nick Fama) lost his battle with this beast this morning. Please keep his wife and 3 children in your prayers”.

Nkimber As reported by adventurebob on Aug 10, 2011, Nkimber passed away yesterday afternoon, dx’d Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma of the Minor Salivary Glands (throat), with lymphatic spread and mets to bone. Apparently she wasn't doing as well as she always wrote (she was so strong and positive)and yesterday the artery in her throat gave out and she bled to death in her father's arms quickly. As expressed by forme I am so saddened to hear of her sudden passing. Her young spirit and strength really touched me. Her kindness was so genuine. I am so sad. As expressed by kimba1505 And then all the feelings come...sadness, anger, the reminder of the strength of this disease. I went back to NKimber's first post on October 19th 2010. She was 31 years old when diagnosed. I also recall her posts to be amazingly upbeat and positive...and so beautiful. My heart goes out to her family and friends.

Noellesmom, he passed away last night, December 29, from a new cancer obstructing his airway. He broke medical records surviving 7.5 years after successful treatment of Stage IV hypopharyngeal cancer. As expressed by swopoe Oh no. May his memory be a blessing to you and your family. As expressed by CivilMatt “I remember talking with Noellesmom about a B.L.T., there were some good things along the way, Bless you”.

Phrannie51, Montana. The sad news was delivered to the Head and Neck forum on Monday, December 30. 2019 at 8:23pm by a Head and Neck member debbiejeanne “Hello all. I have not been here for a while but some members from here are also in a FB group. Our member, known as Phrannie51 on the Head and Neck forum, gained her wings last night. I am pasting this post from her family so the info provided on here is correct. Phrannie51 was a great person, always positive and straight forward. She fought cancer twice and never let it stop her from living! She will be greatly missed by all her knew her.” As expressed by D Lewis: “Chiming in from the 'Class of 2010' here. Phrannie51 was a source of love, humor, guidance and support, and we have stayed in touch via Facebook over the intervening years. I don't believe I would have made it through treatment without the endless support provided by Phrannie51 and all of the other wonderful folks here. I don't have words to express the gratitude I feel. Rest in peace beautiful Phrannie. You will live on in my heart forever.” As expressed by wmc: “I have known Phrannie for 6 years and watched her offer support to so many, including myself. She always was cheerful even when hanging from a fan when she had to have a scan done. My prayers are with her family and friends. There is no more pain and she is at peace. Jackie will be missed but never forgotten.” As expressed by Mikemetz: “Like all of you, I thought that Phrannie51 was one of the very best souls in this community. She was funny, witty, kind, supportive, and so strong in her support of others and her battles with cancer. I had a number of PMs with her over the years, and considered her my "good friend that I never met in person." As expressed by swopoe: “May her memory be a blessing to her family and friends. I know it will be to mine. We love and miss you, Phrannie51! As expressed by Guzzle: “Deeply saddened by this news. A lovely lady. YNWA Phrannie51”, As expressed by wbcgaruss: “To this forum and the many people she helped personally and through the forum overall. She had a big heart and was always there to help others. She will be greatly missed. Sincere condolences to Phrannie51's family and to the CSN family she gave so much time to. She was always upbeat in any given situation and lifted many of us up when we were down. She showed us how to keep enjoying life and look ahead even while fighting a dreaded disease. She will be dearly missed. As expressed by Grandmax4: My heart is heavy at the loss of our precious member and friend, we knew as Phrannie51. Continuing our friendship on facebook, I've laughed, cried, cheered her on, as she fought this beast. Never met in person, but, she showed what a true friend is. Deepest thoughts, prayers to her family and friends. Betty & Benny, and her other beloved pets. As expressed by lorijeannj: We all need a Phrannie51 in our lives. God bless Jackie's family. As expressed by MarineE5: Forever in our Pockets . P-51 was a WW II fighter plane. Phrannie51 reminded me of a true Fighter and was also nicknamed P-51 by others. She will forever be in our Pockets. As expressed by ratface: I will miss her, always tried to offer good direction with her experiences and you knew she really meant every word she typed here! A real caring soul and a really good person at heart! As expressed by corleone: So saddened to hear that. I had the same type of cancer (NPC), treated the same year (2012), but she was a few months “ahead” so she helped me a lot with some very good advices and encouragements. I was under the impression that the latest treatment was working, so this came as a shock for me. She was my inspiration and she is greatly missed! As expressed by: Wolfen I was honored to have lunch with her and her husband on one of their Az visits. Such a fun and sweet lady. She will surely be missed. As expressed by: GavinP In my darkest hours several people here helped to calm me down and got me to pull myself together. Phrannie51 was one of those people and I distinctly remember her telling me to calm myself and "it's not cancer unless a doctor tells you it is" - a CSN moto that I have taken into real life situations over the years.The kindness and warmth Phrannie51 (and everyone else) showed me made such a difference on that long, dark winter night. I have always rememberd it and over the years I have continued to check back quietly to see how you are all doing. The loss of Phrannie51 is such a huge blow and I'm so sorry to hear it.RIP to Phrannie51 and I'll be keeping her and her family and friends in my thoughts. As expressed by: tommyodavey This one has shocked me to the core. Phrannie51 and I go back to almost the same time. She supported me and it was hard to watch her go through the illness a second time. RIP dear friend. As expressed by: LeoS2323 My impression of Phrannie51 was she had lived the equivalent of several lives, and that she got the most out of single every day she had on this earth, even when things were tough. As expressed by: Donfoo This is news nobody wants to hear. She was a warrior and never quit. After the recurrences, my worries for her kept growing. My great fear coming here is seeing posts like this. I was really hoping to visit her but just never got it together.

pscott10 As reported by his wife on Oct 16, 2002, My husband was diagnosed with Oral Cancer a little over a year ago. We have struggled through treatments as the cancer spread and returned without mercy. I know that he has communicated with several people through this website. I wanted to let those people know that he passed away on Sept. 17th. He was a wonderful person and will be missed by so many people. I want to express my appreciation to those people here who supported him . It was a relief for him to communicate with people with similar experiences.

Pumakitty lost her Mom in 2013 and her Dad (H&N) 2012 she has been through a lot in the last few years. Please, keep her in your prayers.

Ray Todd, Down Under, reported by Skiffin16 through FaceBook posting on May 2, 2015, “Ray is on his final journey before leaving earth. He is resting comfortably and preparing for his final bike ride”. “Please, keep Ray and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this time”. “I will miss you ole man…”

Robinleigh, (caregiver for Andy) Alabama, Andy DX January 2011, SCC primary tonsil. Had surgery, metastasis to pelvic region bone, in clinical trial and fighting hard. Unfortunately, wife reported that Andy passed away in September 2012.

Sherylcv 13 Reported July 26, 2017 So, my husband passed away peacefully yesterday at home. His BOT and Oral tongue cancer had recurred in his throat and metastasized to the skin on his neck and to his spine. Thank you all for your very positive posts and vibes. Expressed by swopoe So sorry for your loss. May his memory always be a blessing. Sending my love. Expressed by caregiver wife “Very sorry of your loss. God Bless”

soccerfreaks It was reported to the ROLL CALL in November 2018 by SASH that soccerfreaks had passed away recently. soccerfreaks was a dynamic personality and was extremely active and important to many members in the H&N forum. I will share some of the member comments about him during 2010, fishingirl-Has anyone heard anything from soccerfreaks? I haven't seen any of his posts. Or maybe I have skipped past them, without knowing. He was very helpful as well:) Cindy. sweetblood22- I just noticed that he did not respond to Denisd when he posted. I know that he has a blog. I checked there and I think the last post is 23rd of April. So, I don't know. Have not seen him post either. debbiejeanne- I haven't seen anything either. I pray he is al. If you hear from him, please l et us all know how he is doing. fishingirl-Yes. I hope he is alright too;)

Spazactaz Reported by StaceyRae on Nov 12, 2013, I was browsing through the message boards here and I wanted to thank you all for the support you have provided to (spazactaz) through his battle with cancer over the past year. Unfortunately he passed away on November 7. It was nice to see the supportive and encouraging comments from the members of this board. I know it helped Jesse to have a place to turn to for advice, somewhere he could talk to others who were experiencing the same things as he did. Expressed by hwt “So very sad and sorry to hear. I am glad this forum brought some comfort to Jesse. Prayers for your family and Jesse's loved ones”. Expressed by debbiejeanne “may you find comfort in your memories of Spazactaz and may they help you thru this terrible time”.

Spotsman Reported by Hondo on Feb 18, 2013. “I am Sorry to let you all know that Larry Sportsman passed away yesterday”. “Please keep his family and Wife in your prayers”. He was a wonderful Christian Man who put his faith in the God that he loved. Life is so dear and we should all cherish the time we have with our love ones every day. As expressed by Skiffin16, “this never stops hurting”.

TheFitts Reported by his family on Sep 18, 2012. Thank you so much to everyone for thier help, advice, and prayers for Bobbie. Bobbie passed away Monday while at home. He was diagnosed with Stage IV about four weeks ago. A week later he had a trech, chemo port, and feeding tube put in, was discharged about a week later to a nursing home because he had c-diff. Bobbie told us he didn't want treatment, just wanted to come home have a few beers and live his life the best he could. We got home about 6 PM on Sunday, he had a few beers and a few cigarettes. Throughout the evening, we were sitting in the den and he kept coming to the door way and would just stand there looking in the room and at us. We'd ask if he wanted to join us, how he was, did he want to talk. He would just say he was fine and walk away and return in another 20-30 minutes. Monday when he and my husband got up, they went for a walk in the park, came home and Bobbie heated up some soup, they talked a while, Curtis asking if he was okay, Bobbie just replied, :Curtis I am fine, I'm just a little sick, I'll be okay." He said bobbie said something to him and then left the room, he went looking for him about ten minutes later and found him passed away in the bathroom. They believe it was a blood clot. Looking back Bobbie’s odd sense of urgency to leave the hospital that he just couldn't wait to get home, combined with his coming to the door of the den all even just makes me feel like he knew. Maybe he didn't know he knew --- but somehow he sensed he had little time left, he wanted to get home and relax where he was comfortable. My husband was devastated to find him - that was one thing he didn't want to happen, he said from the beginning he didn't know if he could handle being the one to find Bobbie...we assumed that as things progressed if that time came he would be in the hospital or hospice. i keep reassuring my husband that Bobbie was more happier than he had been in a long time and would not have wanted to be anywhere else. Thanks again to everyone for being there.

ToBeGolden Washington Rick’s wife relayed to CivilMatt in a phone call ToBeGolden’s house that Rick Passed away in October of 2013 from Laryngeal cancer. She mentioned how he continued on his software development till the end (he was always busy doing something). Rick was also a Phd, owned a number of patents, and was a writer. As expressed by katenorwood “Most times we never ever meet face to face. But we get awfully close to people through our site here. TBG was one of those that knew how hard the fight could get, and was willing to continue to share. As many, many others of our fallen friends. God's speed TBG”. As expressed by debbiejeanne “I've missed him posting. we were friends and i will miss him. he fought as hard as anyone could and was a real warrior”. As expressed by CivilMatt, TBG had some dynamite stories about his various Golden Retrievers and each dogs enduring personality. He also told me about his riding on the public transportation system in the Seattle area and the way people reacted to his appearance caused by his cancer (and cancer treatments). TBG was one of the nicest people you could ever meet and he really stuck it out till the end.

Vikeman10, Minnesota, enrolled October 30, 2012. DX’d December 2010 w/malignant neoplasm of posterior hypo pharyngeal, stage IV. Pet scan and NED on 10/29/2012. Happy to be still kicking. Me too! Checked in January 3, 2013. Reported by CivilMatt that he passed away a couple weeks after posting.

VivianLee568 (Vivian & David) reported by Vivian April 4, 2013 My David truly is an angel. He was pronounced dead at 2:24 am EST. he fought a glorious battle and touched many lives in the process. I am so thankful that God spared his mind at the end and he got to say all of his good byes. I will miss him, but he has helped me in so many ways. Just as each of you has helped me. God sent me to this site because he knew I would need your support and lots of pivayer to get me through. I am proud to be part of this forum. i hate baring bad news but am so glad I have someone to share with. Cancer is a terrible beast. It strips us of soi much, but thankfully there is power in numbers and prayer. I love you: Billie, Phrannie51, CivilMatt, Rick, John, Joan, Kris, Kari, dittos, Jan, Tim, Rachel and so many more of you . Expressed by Bille67 I wish I could be there with you now to hug you and hold you. It is my hope and my prayer that the love you and David have for each other will give you the comfort you need. You are right, David truly is your angel now and you will feel his presence all around you. You will be rewarded for all of the extra special care you gave to David, God has special plans for you, I feel it. Luv4lacrosse “David was a brave warrior, who stood up to the beast and fought hard. As my heart aches for you as I write this, I know David is in peace in a better place.” jcortney “Through all the of your trials and tribulations you did what was best for your David; often at the expense of yourself. I could not ask for a better caregiver and I wanted you to know that your friends here, all would applaud you”.

Wolfen Arizona, Reported that her Husband, Ron DX’d late October 2012 w/Stage IV BOT, NPC with lymph node on right side. Also DX’d with secondary primary, not MET w/cancer left lung. Due to medical complications, no cancer treatment at this time. Unfortunately, spouse reported in May 26, 2013 that he lost his battle on May 5, 2013. Our condolences. Caregiver and Mother to Johnnybegood diagnosed with Colon – 2008. Debbie lost her battle July 2014. Both fought a brave battle. Check in July 11, 2015

Zinniemay, Michigan 02-22-2014 Update by Pam M: Zinniemay's husband (Greg) is being celebrated today at his funeral. He fought valiantly and was not only a warrior inspiration, but also a regular good guy.