Good Morning everyone! I'm new to this forum; I decided to join to learn from others (and hopefully share with folks some positive vibes!). I was diagnosed last fall with tonsil cancer. I had 7 weeks of daily radiation and once weekly chemotherapy during those 7 weeks. I was hospitalized last January w/pneumonia and was released after 4 days-PHEW! I was able to finish my last 3 radiation treatments by January 20th. My PETscan in April was clear- WOOO-HOOO! All follow up ENT nose-throat camera views and CT's clear. My feeding tube was removed June 12th. I have found recovery to be almost more challenging than the days of treatment...it's really a giant mental game. But, despite losing 30 lbs (I'm maintaining my weight at 118 these days; had dropped to 112), I feel my energy's back and I'm fit both mentally and physically. I have lymphedima in my neck so I use a compression suit daily for 32 minutes which works well. My eyelids can be prone to blepharitis now so no mascara and diligent optical cleansing twice daily. Eating is a project- small bites and lots of chewing to allow swallowing. My mouth (including my tongue) feels like I drank really hot coffee and is burned. I have to be anal about oral care: 3xdaily brushing, rinsing and fluoride treatments. Taste is weird...Has anyone else had these experiences? How long did it take for your taste to come back?
