nasopharyngeal cancer

shine1113 said:

Hi moconnor!
Before I
Hi moconnor!

Before I proceed in my sharing, let me assure you my prayers for your Mom's treatments, recovery and general well-being; for you and all in your family who are beside her, holding her hands throughout her tough journey.

I'm a survivor, have been off-treatment since 1999 and have no history of recurrence. So far, so good... thanks be to God for constant and continous healing. Eleven years ago, I was diagnosed with squamous cell nasopharyngeal carcinoma with sphenoid sinus bone erosion. I did not undergo chemotherapy but I underwent 40 sessions of external radiation and 3 session of internal radiation (brachytherapy).

While on treatment I experienced the following:
- general body weakness; felt drained after each session,

- 2nd week into the treatment, blisters formed on my tongue but it didn't last long (thanks to my doctor who told me to use a gargle of 1 part salt, 1 part baking soda dissolved in 1 liter of water),

- difficulty in swallowing, dryness of oral cavity --- side effects of radiation treatment; I could only take in clear soup, some fruits that don't cause a "sting" when swallowed; Supplemented my diet with vitamin drinks,

- external physical effect of radiation were burnt portions of the both sides of my neck which gradually recovered when I was off all treatments; it left a slight uneven skin pigmentation though that is hardly noticeable,

My salivary gland didn't recover after treatment. So I've learned to live with difficulty in swallowing; dry throat, nasal area (especially when in cold places; when talking at length); I have a glass of water beside me throughout the day at home, carry a bottle of water when I'm out.

Battling cancer is a tough ride; a conscious fight to win over it. I am eternally thankful to God for graces that help me maintain a positive outlook on life; for prayers, love and support of family, friends and others I've met in the journey.

My prayers go with you and your whole family especially at these trying times. Draw strength from each other. Love, prayers and support will bring inner healing to your Mom.

Blessings to you!

Kent Cass said:

shine 1113
You are an inspiration for all, having gone thru treatment over 10 years ago. Awesome. They put me thru chemo while getting the full head and neck rads, and you know the story on what it does to one, physically, and also mentally. Glad you are now taking part in this forum of positive experiences. I'm only 14-month, NPC, and it is most interesting to hear of your long-term saliva business. Expected as much. It is as it is.

And I second Hondo's greeting, and also wonder about your diet, etc., in being able to stay cancer-free for so long. Reckon most everybody would like to know more about it. So please tell us. And yes- it is very good that you are here with us, now.

Welcome.

kcass