"Tongue cancer and 30 Radiotherapy sessions"

After a hospital referral by dentist and a biopsy carried out during visit to oral and Maxillofacial clinic I was diagnosed with cancer in July 23. I was filled with hope as told I could be cured. The plan to cut out cancer in tongue and carryout a reconstruction using a graft from my arm and a vein.

My operation seemed to take forever, but was carried out in late August 23. After surgeons operated I was advised that 48 Lymph nodes in my neck had been removed. 3 had cancer cells, but 1 had breached. This was the reason my  further treatment of 6 chemo sessions and 30 radiotherapy.  I can't praise all the consultants and NHS Staff enough for all the work they do.  However a mask had to be made,teeth removed etc..

Treatment started in November with daily visits to Ninewells. It was tiring and the mask took a bit of getting used to, but all staff in radiotherapy made it much easier for me and supported me throughout it. They were all very nice and checked that I had what creams I needed.  Everyone is different and treatment may cause reactions to individuals all differently. It is just the unknown,as how it will affect you.

I am currently 9 days after treatment and hopefully I will be turning a corner. I have managed to keep swallowing, so did not need a peg in stomach. I was quite determined not to have any more intrusive operations if I could help it.

I was focused,kept food diaries and notes to help with my reviews etc.. NHS Staff are appreciate of this and it helped making joint decisions. I felt part of the plan and very much relied on their guidance and support as well.  I can't thank the NHS enough.