Hi everyone on this journey, I haven't posted for some time but have been following everyone's posts. Let me update you where I am at. I am officially in remission as it is five years post surgery, January will be five years post treatment. No more clinic appointments for me. Luckily I have a very good GP who keeps a close eye on what is happening with me. There is not a lot you can research as we are all different and no two people react the same to treatments. A lot depends on what type, how mcuh and strength of treatment as to how your body will react. I found out about the over production of other fluids when no saliva by chance. Discussed the issue with a Resident one day and he related that he had other patients experience the same thing and that was how they worked it out. Also, if you have radiation treatament in the head area your Hypothalmus is affected. This is the main reason for the thyriod getting out of whack along with several other glands. This is the area of the brain that regulates body temperature and this is why some of us become intolerant to cold weather. I have to wear "ten" layers of clathing if I am going out when a slight cool breeze is blowing. As I tell people when the ask "I am f** freezing" For some of you things will improve in time, for others we will reach a point and that will be it. Because a large portion of my tongue was removed I am missing those taste buds and the others are still recovering. The mucosis is on on going issue for me and I have learnt to live with it. I also care full time for my husband who is wheelchair bound and can only transfer from the wheelchair to another chair or the bed. He now requires help getting dressed and showering. Luckily during my treatment he was still able to walk with a walking frame. I also had my brother living with us and he helped with meals. Now it is just the two of us again because my brother has gone to live with the baby sister. Whilst the cancer journey has been a pain, I try and focus on all the positive things in life. My son turned fifty this year after a very long battle with drug addiction had us doubting he would live this long. My beautiful daughter gave us the most precious gift last year, a granddaughter. Harper Grace is such a joy and keeps me busy one day a week. This little one even looks like her Grannie. The one thing I still have a problem with is when someone says "but you are still here and that is all that matters", I just want to scream. They have no idea of the journey we have travelled to get this far and we are all grateful for the help and support given to us on the way. We don't need to be reminded of the battle. Take heart beautiful people, there are so many of us out here battlling one way or another. One step at a time is all we can do. Only surround yourself with those that truly care. I have the two of the most beautiful children, their partners and a very small network of close friends. Keep strong
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