Osteoradionecrosis

Good morning folk. Just a quick update. I had a free flap scapula reconstruction of my left lower mandible in Oct 2024 The osteoradionecrosis was caused by radiation damage back in 2022, which according to statistics effects about 10% of people who have radiation treatment.  It's a horrible condition and very challenging.  Anyway had operation for reconstruction the after 12 weeks a oral cutaneous fistula developed from a previous one and the titanium plate was exposed. It's was devastating as the procedure had failed.  So back in Jan 25 had another free flap scapula construction using my right scapula and a much bigger flap to construct the inside and outside due to external tissue damage. So 6 very challenging months later this second procedure seems to holding. At times I have been totally depressed and disparing and seeing no way out constantly preoccupied that it will fail again with trauma retriggered from cancer treatment.  Currently I am managing my mood with cycling and antidepressants which have been helpful. My face looks different with the prominent scar but this does not bother me as much.  I have found  excercise and cycling has been as  effective has the pils. My key message is that in the darkest hours life is painfully still with overwhelming feelings of depression and pain. I have learnt that time is actually a healer and it's not just a cliche and that for me the light in the darkness has gradually appeared and it feels like I am getting through. So for folk out there lost in the blinding dark, hold on. The light takes time to emerge. So just to send love to you folk out there to hold on as much as you can and the light will eventually come x.