New here just told I have Tonsil cancer

Hi Ash, yes, it's good to put on some weight before you start your treatment. However, don't put too much on after you have had your mask fitting, it could be a bit tight if you do.

Hello Ash

Just popping up a bit late to say welcome to this lovely supportive group - I found it so helpful during my diagnosis, treatment and recovery. 

Yes do treat yourself to some nice meals and goodies while you can! Though as OldBiker says it's advisable not to put much weight on once you've had your mask fitted. 

Sending solidarity,  love & luck

Catriona

PS just read your blog,  it's great! Love the illustrations too

Quick update from me 

Had my mask fitting this week. Went surprisingly well, and I think I’ll be able to wear it without panicking — although I did feel a bit like a clingfilm-wrapped ham joint ready for the reduced aisle at Tesco.

Treatment starts on 4th September: six weeks of radiotherapy plus chemo. I’m still waiting to meet the chemo team, though I imagine they’ll be the ones armed with the sharp sticks and funny fluids.

On a brighter note, my son’s getting married at the end of October I’m praying I’ll be in a fit enough to at least be there at the service — even if im only there for the I do's.

So that’s where I’m at: bracing myself for six weeks of zaps and drips, with the wedding as my goal at the finish line.

Im still writing my blog which helps me so much mentally if you fancy a quick read go to www.lethalpasty.com

Civpop said:

go to www.lethalpasty.com

Great blog. Keep it up and good luck for the next chapter.

Next time you write tell everybody to get their kids vaccinated against HPV.

Hi Ash, sorry I'm late to your post, but I've been away for a bit.

Had the same condition (tonsils and neck lymph nodes removal) followed by 6 weeks of C&RT, which all ended for me on 31st Jan 25.

With a positive attitude which you seem to have, hopefully like me the CRT will not affect you too much until the final week or two, but don't let that fool you that it's all easy. The month following RT finishing is the toughest part, where eating becomes really difficult and not only that, food if you can manage it has no taste or is awful. So be prepared. Rest and recuperate as much as you can.

I haven't read anywhere about you having a PEG fitted. Do you have one?

Having said all that, get through that month following RT and things should slowly improve to a point where after 2 months food can be pleasurable again. I found that the slight pain when eating at this stage, was offset by the complete joy of having my sense of taste return!

And regarding pain relief in one of your posts, I found regular doses of soluable paracetamol my go to for pain management.

Keep us updated and I would be happy to chat having been through what you are coming up against, very recently.

MickyC

Your story is so similar to mine. 
I am now 4 weeks post my second surgery and I’m doing ok. I have a couple of side effects, but I’d rather that than have that disease inside me. 
you are going to be absolutely A.OK, I just know it. Keep being positive and making plans for how you’re going to celebrate YOU post surgery

I’m sending you positive vibes and good wishes

Hi Ash. I had the same diagnosis and treatment as you almost exactly 5 years ago. There are some great tips in here from people who’ve been through it, but if I were to give advice I’d say 1 - try to keep exercising throughout the treatment. Daily walks, even when you don’t feel like it, will help your recovery both physically and mentally. 2 - eat lots of calories so as not to lose too much weight. Cream, custard, Reddy Brek, cream, peanut butter milk sizes, cream, scrambled eggs with cream, ice cream became my staple diet. 3 - take your Movicol religiously! The impacted constipation I got a few weeks in was probably the most miserable experience I had throughout the treatment. 
Wishing you well. M