Firming Plans to WIN the Cancer battle!!

Many of you know I have stage 4 cancer in my neck having metastasized from my tongue. The prognosis is really quite good, but getting there will be beyond difficult. Next Friday, I have every one of my teeth pulled so the decay is minimized post radiation treatment. The next week I will have a feeding tube inserted through my belly since I won't be able to swallow after a few weeks into the chemo/radio period. This scares the hell out of me: I want to make sure that my cancer surgeon understands all the issues and the 2 solid years of healing don't get compromised. Also, will they prepare a vitamin/mineral mixture to pump into me? I may have my RNY surgeon call him. If you have any ideas or experiences, please share them this weekend. This 7 week Ch/Ra therapy will start in mid September. I'll then heal through late November and December. Neck surgery will follow in January. I may get my teeth in Dec. or Jan. I hope to be back on all eight cylinders by early March. Since the cancer has progressed the "big guns" will be employed. UK's Markey Center will provide services. We've met some incredible and caring folks throughout the 2 months of diagnosis and treatment planning. They must have taken lessons from y'all!!! Mo, thanks, sis!! Peter and Andrea, save a glass of wine for me...I'll see you next year!!! Dave

Dave I want you to know that I wll be praying for you every step of the way...Please stay strong and good things are bound to happen!! It seems like you have a tough attitude and it is good. I am so glad that we have this board for support...you can lean on me... GO OUT THERE AND BEAT THAT.....

I met you in Hinkley last year and we talked for quite a while and you are such an insperation to all of us that have had GBP, I know that you will win this and will be back strong. Take care and know that we are all praying for during this time. Take care!

Dave, sounds like you've got the most important thing going for - the strength and determination to fight! Keep us posted on your progress.

Dave- Keep us posted on your battle-- We're pulling for you-- and plan to share that glass of wine with you. Please let us know if there is anything we can do-- We love you!

Hey Dave, I too will keep you in my prayers, but I want you to know that my experience with different cancers with both my parents, we have been told that attitude is half the battle. And you sound so up beat and positive, giving the plan for success and letting us know when you will be back "on all eight cylinders". You will come through this and we will be here walking the journey all the way with you. Please log on anytime you need some positive vibes and they will be right here for you. Much love and extra hugs to your wife too!

Dave, My thoughts and prayers are with you. With your positive attitude and outlook, I'm sure you'll do just fine through it all.