I too am recovering from cancer treatment that ended in December 2020. The cancer is completely gone now and I'm learning to live with the side effects. The most annoying are the muscle cramps in the neck and jaw. Over all, I feel like I have my strength back and am looking forward to putting cancer in the past. Cheers
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. Five weeks ago I finished my therapy of 7 chemo treatments and 35 radiation treatments for throat cancer. There was no chance of surgery for me because of the size and location of my tumor. I had to get a feeding tube because I lost my ability to eat as well as my taste, and desire for food. I am still on the feeding tube, learning to swallow again. I lost all my hair (which was previously down to my waist), so I am regrowing hair, learning to eat, learning to talk, and discovering stamina again finally. Like you, I am so grateful to my partner who literally walked me to every single appointment while I had zero energy to support myself. The oncology doctor has looked into my throat and declared that there is absolutely NO TUMOR remaining. So, Yippeeee!!!! I am so looking forward to curry again someday.
That sounds like a difficult time for you and very glad to here great news :) Hang in there with taste and how your throat feels. It is definitely a slow process, that curry will come back. I Have most all my things back, but it takes me a lot longer to eat. A small price to pay to still be here!
That’s interesting,I was also diagnosed with throat cancer here in the Uk,no surgery due to location and size of tumour,have just completed round 6/6 chemo,which I thought was bearable,fatigue being my major side effect,scan next week followed by immunotherapy….. my question to you is was the feeding tube an option rather than mandatory?
@@scambodia147 In my case I HAD to have a feeding tube because I could not and would not eat anything by mouth. I had no desire to eat. It was painful to even try to eat and I had lost my appetite completely. I lost 40 pounds before I even realized it. (145 down to 104 pounds). The feeding tube literally saved my life. Congrats on finishing your chemo!!!
I am in the middle of week three. The mouth sores are rude and disrespectful. I can see why people lose weight now. But I am blessed. Thank you sir, for this thoughtful video. I need all of the first person advice I can get.
keep going, it will get a bit more painful, just when you think it is all over, but you will soon be through it! I am feeling great, will actually be doing an update video this week, to let people know how I have done two year on.
I know your pain . I had left tonsil SCC HPV+ and 2 lymph nodes at 30mm. Had the radical tonsillectomy (ridiculously painful). Had 35 sessions IMRT radiation over 7 weeks. I also had the cisplatin chemo therapy ( 3 high doses at 3 week intervals). I didn't have any neck surgery. By start week 4 of treatment after 2nd chemo my throat was really rough inside. My skin on the outside lasted till around week 6 and then was going downhill quick. By week 5 I was on liquid only diet of protein drinks which lasted for another 3 months till I felt up to eating solid food enough to get off the fluid only. So was a mix of both for a couple weeks then food again only. At 2 years post treatment my function's of taste and dry mouth are probably 85%. I have moderate hearing loss and tinitus but really when you look at the alternative I cant complain.
Thank you so much for sharing your journey, my gosh you have been through the run of it, you are one tough guy, it sounds absolutely awful and I can't imagine the everyday life of it. My prayers to you for your continued health journey! I am still in the stages of Oncology sending me for CT scan to see exact origin and if it's spread anywhere other than my lymph node in the neck...my insurance said I had to that first, they would't approve a PET scan right away. After being ignored by various negligent Doctors and incompetent office staff, such a long painful story.....5 months here I am with a diagnoses after a Biopsy done in December 2023 Metastatic Basiloid Squamous Cell Carcinoma, more Squamous is what I was told. 1 oncologist thinks origin is in throat plus I've had issues with one tonsil since August 2023. But of course I won't know until they get my tests done. Could also be origin of skin, this way too much and confusing without proper Testing and Diagnosis. I am not looking forward to any of the treatments/potential surgeries and being fitted, wearing that mask is going to be real difficult for me, I have extreme claustrophobia! I'm just praying it's not spread further! All of the sudden in past 1 month and half I have all these symptoms that aren't good. I started out with a swollen lymph node August 9th, found some tonsil stones and was diagnosed with strep with no other symptoms and didn't have any until my lymph node kept growing to the size of 4cm last checked in December. December is when I started feeling sick and appetite slowly decreasing to almost non existent, which is not the normal me, I've always eaten my through every ailment! So I've have been freaking out about this! Then the feeling of a lump in my throat when swallowing began a few weeks ago. Sorry for the long winded comment, its a long painful journey and the absolute worst hasn't come yet. would love to hear about your journey in more detail, I just purchased your Book, I am looking forward to that, thank you so much for sharing with us, it means the world to those of who are camera shy! Cheers from USA state of Indiana/Illinois
Thank you for your comment, it is not long winded at all. I hope you get your diagnosis soon and get to the treatment part so you can begin the process of healing! It is not a pleasant experience, but just know there is light at the end of the tunnel. Two years post treatment and i am feeling great. Good luck! Keep me informed.
Thank you so much for your reply, I'm glad to hear you are feeling great! I hope your Hip surgery is healing nicely too, it's a lot to go through with the cancer surgery. I have my diagnosis, its HPV positive tonsil cancer, right side metastatic lymph nodes on same side. I am waiting on surgery to schedule my full tonsillectomy and neck dissection. I would love any tips you can provide, I purchased and your read book, thank you for sharing with us. If there's anything you can share with me on tips for recovery, sleeping, eating, drinking I would be so Grateful. My surgeon was saying they would put in a feeding tube down my nose while I'm under. I am going to ask them if I can bring my own bags of nutrients for it, I can't imagine theirs is quality haha. Looking forward to hearing from you again and glad to see you are doing well. @@TheOptimisticGardener
Thank you Steve, I hope your recovery has gone well. I’ve recently had the same surgery but I was spared from radiation and chemotherapy. You have given an honest outlook and assessment to the emotional and physical hurdles that you can face with this illness. You have me thinking of starting a garden now. I wish you and your family all the best in your future. Thank you for posting this, stay positive.
Thanks for your comment Bryan, glad to hear you have been spared the rad/chemo! Things are all good here, I have just had my two year and all clear check up, so very happy. I will always recommend having a bit of a garden, it helps with relieving stress in so many situations, a constant joy! If you at all interested I wrote a book about my experience. It is called The Optimistic Gardener - A Gardener's Journey Through Throat Cancer. I like to think it is mildly amusing, despite the title :) Anyway it is available on Amazon.
Thank you for sharing your story! You are a strong man! My husband had the exact type of treatment for cancer on the base of his tongue. He's 4 1/2 years out from his last treatment!! I'm sending you best wishes as you continue to heal!
Thank you for sharing your story. It makes me appreciate your efforts on this channel even more. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers for your continuing recovery. Cheers, and keep on getting your hands dirty in the garden. God Bless!
You described the moment perfectly! Lol I had a lump on the left side of my neck, that grew to the size of a plum within a month. I had procrastinated about going to the doctor for a couple of months, cancelled my appointment several times because I was called in to work. Besides I had self diagnosed myself as it just being a cyst. When I finally got there, Doc felt my neck, looked down my throat and then sat down and said “it’s highly probable that you have Throat Cancer “ I thought he had flipped his lid, I remember the commentary going through my head…. “What’s he on about? It’s just a cyst! This dude is bat💩 crazy! “ Month later seen specialist and he confirmed he agreed with my doctors diagnosis, and done the biopsy…. Think I spent the next few months in a bubble of denial
@@TheOptimisticGardener thank you, yes I’m now 2.5years post treatment…. Half way to the golden 5yr mark! Still currently cancer free, I have my 3mthly check up next week 🤞 Side effects are manageable, drinking 3 - 5 litres of water a day to combat the dry mouth, regular physiotherapy to help regain neck mobility, unfortunately I had a previous neck injury and a shoulder injury on the same side as my tumours, which has been impacted by the radiation. Still hurts like crazy to yawn 🥱 and fatigue is still one of my biggest demons. But I have my full tastebuds back, can eat most things again and I’ve grown accustomed to the permanent ringing in my ears.
I just had tonsil surgery and 2 cancerous lymph nodes taken from my neck. Same spot, same scar🤙 One of them burst open too. Im about to start up my radiation and chemo treatments in 2 weeks. Im 42 and terrified. Your video gave me some strength and your journey sounded like what the Dr said it would be. Im a pessimistic gardener, so finding this when i searched for neck cancer stories gave me a big smile. Now ive got a whole new channel to watch during these long days for treatments. Hope all is well.
@@paulengland1760 everything is going very well Paul. It is, as you already know with the surgery, a hard journey, but there will be light at the end of the tunnel. Good luck and stay positive, you'll pull through 😀
Man you r the most polite person with whom I have met great man just be like this as you are you are a great person may god bless you and you have my blessings
Just going through radiotherapy after having tonsillectomy and right side neck dissection. 2 weeks in taste has started to change, red meats are tasteless. Mine was HPV related and after 2 surgeries I was hoping for observation, no joy. I had to have several teeth extracted before I started radiotherapy. Good to hear your experience, trying to stay positive, and active.
Hi Steve! Same diagnosis around same time frame here -though my therapy SANS neck dissection & chemo ADDED. Was horrible ordeal & I can relate to crying episodes. Hyper-emotionality (think it's a word!) continues to this day, but like you said, beats alternative! Thanks for sharing & hope you remain cancer free! kev
Amen I I'm going through mouth cancer now and I ended up getting an infection and bad nausea and I couldn't eat. They don't tell you that. Prayers for you and your family
Thanks, I am really all fine now (I am going to do an update video this week). Hopefully you got through your infection and the rest of the treatment ok?
@@TheOptimisticGardener I'm in the middle of it right now, You never know when and what's going to hit you, i got thrush in my mouth that now is causing problems This sucks and you just want it to end, trying to swallow pills are hard also and I'm still can not eat any solids yet ug. I'm glad to hear your fine now I hope it stays that way for a long time, Thank you for taking the time to talk to me i don't feel so alone now.
Thank you for sharing your Journey, Steve. It will be uplifting to anyone who has to start this dreaded path. You are looking great. Best wishes to you and your family.
Base of tongue cancer, 35 radiation treatments. A lot of the same symptoms that you occurred. Wishing you the best! I fully understand what you're talking about.
Thank you for this! I just recovered from the removal of my tonsils and 30 lymph nodes. Got a scar justblike yours, lol. My appointment with Radio Oncology is Jan 3rd. I am just feeling better and pretty bummed that it is likely only a short break before the next phase. Just gotta embrace the suck and keep going. 👍
One day at a time and stay positive! I am going to do an update video in the next too weeks to show how far I have come on since that vid. Feeling great now and positive 2 years on :)
Thank you so much for this video, I'm so happy I found you! This is the first video I've seen of yours, I am looking forward to seeing your updates! I'm sending you so many prayers of Great Health! @@TheOptimisticGardener
@@user-qk3qj6ls6b Hi! I'm doing really good! Got some sense of taste back now 4 weeks after radiation. I lost a total of 30 lbs between surgery and radiation. What I would recommend is KEEP EATING. You won't want to, but getting those muscles working again as soon as you can is key. You got this! 👍😁
Thank you very much for making the video I to have chemo and radiation and your spot on. At the end, I was quite sick and I lost 40 pounds No taste yet no saliva yet but hopefully the day will come. I will find out in two weeks if I am clear. One day at a time and appreciate life.
Thank you so much Steve for sharing this, I'll be treasuring your words in my journey . I've been diagnosed with the same thing and I'm just about to have my operation. (I'm sh...... my self) I hope all is good with you. Many Thanks! Sandro
Keep the faith Sandro and know that there is an end and a good one. It's an intense journey, but "eye on the prize" and you will come through. I am feeling great and living life to the full :)
I’m so sorry to hear you have been on that “not nice journey”. So glad your garden and your family has brought you through the tough times. Stay strong and we look forward to seeing you in your garden this spring time.
Thank you for being so honest and forthright about your experience. My friend was also treated at the QEII for a brutal breast cancer regime. She came through for her three young boys. I'm so glad you are on the mend! And I hope your wife and some are managing too. I love watching and seeing your property because I'm home sick but I don't miss trying to garden in those rocks and lack of soil! ☺️ Best to you and to your family and your continued recovery.
Thank you very much for this. I had exactly the same operation with one side of my lypmth nodes removed and a tumour at the base of the tongue. A bit of a shite Xmas, to be fair. I am now awaiting my final chemo and am halfway through my 30 radiotherapy sessions. I can no longer do solids but the Mrs has been helping and I have been inventing some things myself to get me through. Odd that you mention being in the navy, I was in the Royal Marines for 20 months (medical discharge) but the thinking of other things while enduring discomfort was something they trained me to do. Nice that it has come in handy after all these years. What really cheered me up was you telling us that the taste buds come back. I have a summer cottage booked back in the UK (I live in Seville - wonderful health service!), and I am really looking forward to noshing on Norfolk fish and chips. Oh, and finally getting a beer down me with my family. This is about the most helpful video I have seen. Thank you very much. Keep up the good work!
This is a really crap time for you, but keep the faith, if you look at the follow on video, two years later I am so much better, a few issues, but food tastes great :). Good luck!
@@TheOptimisticGardener Thanks for the comments , having a ganders at the video now. I have subscribed and will recommend to my mate who has an allottment and is well into growing his own vegetable. I also benefit as he often gives me his produce and will probably lend him a hand (I used to be a gardener when I was younger).
Thank you for sharing your experience. I also believe my time in my garden both physically and mentally is a healing time. Sending prayers for your continued recovery.
Thank you for sharing! I too had surgery and I start 30 rounds of radiation today. I appreciate you being honest of the journey and what it is like once radiation is finished. So happy for you and happy gardening!
Hi Steve, I'm so glad I ran across your video today. Its wonderful how God puts things in front of you to see... I've been contemplating how to tell my story, and watching yours has absolutely inspired me and encouraged me to do so right away because even though My story is still unfolding, Im sure it can help others to not suffer as I did knowing what you and I have learned the hard way...I am 2 years battling this thing doing everything else possible to avoid Radiation and Chemotherapy...and after 2 years 4 surgeries... I am now unreluctantly headed to 6 weeks of Radiation treatment. So much happens from the moment you hear the c word... an incredible Revelation and redefining of one's way of thinking and living.... Thank You for Sharing Your Story!!🙏🏼
Hello there. Im also an avid allotmenteer in the UK and found your journey very interesting. Ive gor cancer of the tongue, had it cut out and out back together. Im in-between chairs right now, waiting for my the outcome of my lymph glands analysis begore I start radiotherapy. I agree with the dry mouth and am 3 weeks post op. Now on solids and having to salt mouth wash 5 times a day. What I didn't know, is that radiotherapy could alter my taste as I am also a foodie. Never smoked and occasionally drink a glass of wine, this came out of the blue. Im glad you are back on par and thank you for sharing your story. All the best, Elaine 👍
Thanks for your comment Elaine. Definitely be prepared for the loss of taste if you have radiotherapy and it took a good few months after to get back some normality. It is two years now and feeling good, with I believe all my taste back 😀
@@TheOptimisticGardener got to treat it like covid, lost my taste and smell back then laugh. At least I won't lose my sense of humour. Stay positive and keep on gardening 😁 🌱🌱
Thank you for posting your story Steve. My story is slightly different to yours but it has definitely helped me to hear it. I had 6 cycles of chemo and 30 fractions of radiotherapy. Taste for most things is coming back but similar to yourself I find some things difficult to swallow. I still have more appointments this month so hopefully will get some answers. My oncologist said it looks good but that was at the 6 week point and there’s still a lot of swelling. Feeling much better now. I had a few other complications that were life threatening so I have to be grateful and positive like you said in the video. Thanks again and keep on gardening as it’s a great way to spend the days.
Hi. Very nice video of your personal journey. Big hugs n warm thoughts to all the medical professionals involved n especially your wife n son who have supported you. I feel your garden saved you mentally n emotionally, giving you an outlet for your feelings that can't always be expressed verbally to someone; but you can express it in tasks done, a weed pulled, a nail hammered, seeds planted n see new growth as you have grown thru this tough journey. I wish you continued good health to you n too your garden. Peace to you and yours
Thank you for this video I am just starting this journey and hearing from a person who has experienced this and given me a honest idea of what is in store has helped massively. I wish you all the best in your recovery and thank you
Hi Paul, it is a difficult time, but I am glad that this video has helped a little. I am still here feeling good, so there is light at the end of the dark tunnel. Not wanting to use this to sell you something, but I have written a book about my journey through my treatment. I think it is a very honest portrayal, with a bit of humour in there and I wrote it to help other people in the same situation. You can et it here: www.amazon.ca/Optimistic-Gardener-Gardeners-Journey-Through/dp/B09V3WFLM1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2VY854T2CZS9E&keywords=the+optimistic+gardener&qid=1667232543&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=%2Caps%2C131&sr=8-1
So glad you've managed to stay positive through it all. What doesn't kill you will make you stronger. Gardening is great for your mental healing. Keep up your inspirational videos .🌴
Steve, Thank you for sharing your story. Takes courage to do so. I was diagnosed in September of 2022 with SCC in the same location. 7 weeks of radiation and chemo followed by a neck dissection to remove some lymph nodes. Just finished a 5 1/2 week radiation treatment to ensure everything is gone. Tough roses for sure.
Thanks for your comment and glad you have come through ok. It takes a few months to get over things, but I am feeling great now, just a bit slower eating and sometimes get a bit of cramp in my neck :)
Thanks for telling your story, Steve! Same diagnosis around same time as you, but here in U.S., my treatment INCLUDED chemotherapy & BYPASSED lymph node excision (can't imagine THAT pain...) As you say, the interest in a pastime/hobby (music's mine) is invaluable! Hope we BOTH beat it!!
So glad you made it through!!! What type of throat cancer. I have HPV associated tonsilar cancer. Doing radiation 35 sessions and chemo 7 visits. No taste. Not a tremendous amount of pain tho I’m only 4 weeks in. Occasional nausea. No robotic surgery as part of mass was near jaw bone.
Hi HopeDealer63! My cancer was same as yours, -involving tonsillectomy, chemo, & radiation. All became too much for me (wt loss, absence of taste, lethargy/weakness, & couple compassionLESS practioners), so opted out -short of prescribed treatment duration. Coincidentally/?Miraculously?, "de-escalation" of therapy (when HPV root cause) was trending... Think I beat it, & wish SAME for YOU!
I just discovered your channel You’re sharing you journey with this shows everyone you’re strength may you continue to enjoy your green house not only are you a great carpenter but a great person too!!!
Brilliant, I am getting over the same, ear to ear operation, both side lymph nodes removed and laser of inside if throat, had radiotherapy 30 sessions as well and chemotherapy, chemotherapy is really bad, finished a week ago , lost 25 lbs, getting stronger by the day. Fantastic video
That was brave of you to share such a personal story on this channel with us. And being honest with what you went through will help a lot of people who are facing the same treatment... Love your accent by the way. Lived in England (Bournemouth) for 7 years and listening to you reminds me of the good times I had. All the best from Germany
Inspiring listening to you talk Steve! Sometimes things feel like it's never going to end, and you've just proved that we have to keep our eye on the prize in order to come out on the other side. Yah! Eating curry so soon might not have been the thing. :D. I'm smiling as I think of the stern look my Doc gave me after I told him I'd purchased 35.00 worth of cheese to consume after only 10 weeks from gall bladder removal. I told him the Specialist told me I could try foods after 10 weeks! I think I cause this Doc fits! Good on ya, and may you enjoy many more healthy years!
I wish you all the best in your continued recovery. You have done amazing to have kept going and doing your youtube videos and starting your new business through all of that. Although it must have been a horrendous experience you should be so proud of yourself.
Thanks for sharing your story. My father is going through same situation now. Just 2 days ago operation was done. Still in hospital. Your story given us soo much strength. God bless you.
I am glad I could help. If you ever need any other advice about this, don't hesitate to message me. I don't mean to be trying to sell something to you, but I also wrote a book about my experience. I believe it has helped those that have read it :) It is available on Amazon, here - www.amazon.ca/Optimistic-Gardener-Gardeners-Journey-Through/dp/B09V3WFLM1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LNU7QQ1ENE2R&keywords=the+optimistic+gardener&qid=1666628844&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-1
Very helpful for what to expect in the near future, thanks for posting! After weeks of a soar throat and left ear pain, yesterday I was diagnosed with a base of tongue tumor which I fully expect to be malignant when the biposy surgery is completed in a few days. Although I have not been notified about the CT scan results, I'm prepared for the news about size and scope of the mass. I've learned that Squamous Cell Carsonima (SCC) is the most common culprit. Oddly enough, just last year (2022) I required open surgery of the esougphas through the neck due to a growth called a Zinkers Diverticlum which blocked the esouhphas with a 5cm growth preventing me from swallowing. No mention of any cancerous tissue at that time. This was rough go as well requiring use of an NG feeding tube for about 6 weeks and the loss of 35 lbs post surgery. Based on what I've learned, the base of the tongue area is the most difficult location to access and treat, so we will see how this works out over the next year or so... Cheers from Alabama!
Thank you for sharing this personal part of your life Steve. You're absolutely right about two things in particular - most people don't discuss cancer beyond the clinical except to maybe close family and a friend or two. The other thing that struck me is you talking about worrying how other people are coping. Isn't it strange - *you* are the one who needs to be selfish (is that the right word?) and by rights just focussed on your own health, yet here you are, compelled to shield your loved ones from the negative thoughts so that they feel ok. Humans are funny animals. Telling your story, warts and all, is just as important to you as it will be for someone out there who comes across this video just when they need it. Stay well and positive, your thoughts define your reality. From my family here in the Antipodes to yours.
So glad you continue to be on the mend. Sharing your journey will certainly help those who are afraid, and show that if u remain positive anything is possible. Wish you all best with your continued recovery. From G&B allotments.
I found your channel because of you sharing , I love gardening so I subscribed , my husband had a few biopsies on his throat the drs said it is Barrett’s disease and was told it was pre cancer so , he discovered he has prostate cancer , hernias and kidney disease with stones so he needs two more surgeries , he is now worried about eating healthy, I’m going to buy your book ,thank you for sharing your experience and I look forward to looking through your playlist !
Wow, thanks for your comment and I hope your husband gets through it all with the minimum of discomfort. I have just had a hernia op and will be having a new hip in their Autumn, so not out of the woods yet! I hope you find my videos useful :)
That's quite some journey you've been on Steve. Listening to you is like seeing someone in 2 parallel lives. One pushing through unknown territory just trying to get to the other side and the other your garden which has kept you rooted and given you a sense of reality and control over at least one part of your life. This video will definitely help many people who are about to embark on this unwanted journey and don't know what to expect. I hope you are feeling a lot better now and you can enjoy your wonderful greenhouse and garden.
Brilliant video, thanks for making it. Like plenty of other viewers I'm just at the start of dealing with this very annoying type of cancer. Your story has helped bring to life what's coming up. And curry is definitely going to be on the menu before radiation starts. Hope you're well now.
Thank you for sharing! The journey through cancer treatment is not an easy one. Much love and admiration to you and your Mrs! You sound like an amazing team!🥰 Shalom 💕
Your journey was a inspiration to me I also had radiation for 7 weeks finished in June 30 have feeding tube for 9 months try to eat but flema after radation get in the way of me trying to eat but with my Lord and your story I will get through it ❤
Thanks for sharing your story! My journey is remarkably similar to yours. Right down to the size of the tumors. I have 9 radiation sessions left. Hopefully I won't have all the trouble afterwards like you did. I am in massachusetts. God bless and thanks again.
Thanks for your comment and good luck in your remaining journey! Just keep hanging in there and know that there is an end even though it may seem to go on longer than you want. I have just had my two years clear, so happy with that :)
I am glad I could help. If you ever need any other advice about this, don't hesitate to message me. I don't mean to be trying to sell something to you, but I also wrote a book about my experience. It is available on Amazon, here - www.amazon.ca/Optimistic-Gardener-Gardeners-Journey-Through/dp/B09V3WFLM1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LNU7QQ1ENE2R&keywords=the+optimistic+gardener&qid=1666628844&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-1
Thank you for sharing its very scary I have a condition called oral lichen planus in my mouth under tongue and gums !! It helped me look at things differently thank you
Hi Steve, what a journey. Im happy to see you thriving again. Question: Did you lose any weight prior treatment maybe due to stress or being worried? Thanks for sharing your story.
I had squamous cell carcinoma on my epiglottis and a spot on my voice box that was surgically removed 7 weeks ago, went in for a follow-up, they found another tumor that is inoperable and is recommending radiation. So here I am patient stories
I'm 14 radiation sessions and 3 chemo sessions into my treatment now, and my major issue is that all foods are repulsive. It doesn't matter what it is, the taste not gone, but replaced with something resembling drippings from a port roast left on the kitchen counter for a few days to go rancid. If it was just loss of taste, that would be a bonus. I have found videos like yours tremendously helpful in preparing for this, so I am also making weekly video updates for family and friends, with the hope that they may also be of help to someone going through this in the future.
Sending prayers of strength with a quick and smooth healing your way ❤🩹 I have a tonsillectomy and neck dissection coming next week for now, I'm praying they get it all out and won't need radiation❤🩹
This is a very useful video and so glad that you were able to do it. Where in NS are you. Spent a lot of time in the 1980's working out of CAF Base Greenwood during my 30 year RAF career.
Glad it was helpful Glyn. I am in Hubbards and I won't hold it against you that you were in the RAF :) My Dad served in the RAF during the Second World War. He flew in Lancasters and was shot down over Holland!
Hi , I'm going through exactly the same diagnosis with tonsil being primary and spread to lymph node Just had my op and OMG it really was the worst pain I've experienced and still am in pain 13 days on I need 7 weeks of radiation daily and 1 day a week of chemo Thanks for being honest about your experience Any tips on pain relief ? I'm finding that I'm suffering terrible ear ache ! Due to have my wisdom teeth out this week then start therapy March 6 th Hope you and yours are well Melissa x
Hi Melissa, I am very well now thank you and thanks for your comment. I am sorry to hear that you had to go through this, but the good thing is it will come to an end! The pain, as we have both experienced, is defo not on my top 100 experiences. I am gutted i can't remember the actual pills that really helped me, post the op, but they were to help with "nerve pain". They were proscribed to me by my family doctor after i could hardly sleep for the first five days. They were in addition to the hydra-morphine that I was taking, but they really really helped. Your pain will subside quite quickly over the next few weeks at least. I was fortunate not to suffer from earache. I always feel bad doing this but I recommend reading the book that I wrote about my experience going through this www.amazon.ca/Optimistic-Gardener-Gardeners-Journey-Through/dp/B09V3WFLM1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2XLRVV2AA5OUP&keywords=the+optimistic+gardener&qid=1677095841&s=books&sprefix=the+optimistic+gardener%2Cstripbooks%2C181&sr=1-1 . I like to think it adds a bit of humour to an otherwise pretty hideous experience. Good luck and please let me know how you get on!
Oxy codeine where my pain meds, and they really helped. Hope you have a doctor that is willing to prescribe them! Wishing you well and hope for a speedy recovery.
Hi Steve, I hope you are doing great now🙏🏻I would love some tips on recovery from surgery and to see how you are now these days with it. I will be going through the same surgery soon, a date hasn’t been set yet. I’m freaking out about it and was hoping to prepare as best as I can 🙏🏻
Thank you :) Here is my follow up video. th-cam.com/video/vCirZPUd6eE/w-d-xo.html It is definitely not going to be pleasant. Just keep up with the meds and know that the pain will lesson quickly after a couple of weeks.
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. At this point, when I am given two treatment options, your vivid story has been enlightening. I have the same thing you had, a primary about 2cm in the base of my tongue (right tonsil) and a secondary 2.5cm on the side lymph glands. The options I get are radical lymph glands removal and robotic surgery for the primary, or, CRT (35 radiations) using IMRT. I had preliminary chosen CRT, but after seeing your video, I am inclined toward the surgery; however, I have been told that there is a possibility (such as in your case) that after surgery, I had to undergo RT. I have two questions about your case that I hope you can answer. First, was your primary HPV+? Mine is. Second, was your RT IMRT? Finally, knowing what you know now, which option would you choose? Many thanks for help, wishing you all the best
Sorry to bother you but I'd like your feedback please? I'm about 5 weeks post radiation completion. I started feeling better and was down to one pain pill a day but within 24 hours the swelling and pain returned and I now do 4 pain pills within 24 hours. The only thing I changed was drinking Perrier as the bubbles seemed to help cleanse while I hydrated. Is a return to pain and swelling normal? I'll contact the radiologist today. Thanks.
Hi Pete, sorry to here about your pain. So, I can't really comment from a properly giving you advice, as obviously I am not a doctor. Don't ever be afraid of contacting your doc though. After 5 weeks I still had ups and downs with pain though. In fact after four months we stay in town to have a bit of a celebration after seeing the doc and get the proper all clear and I tried to drink alcohol and it was proper painful, so it does take a bit of time. Defo contact your doc though and good luck!
Brilliant! I remember the first couple of times weren't very nice at all, but you just train yourself I think. I hope are doing well now, feeling great myself :)
@@TheOptimisticGardener it was the worst part for me as silly as it sounds . Yeah the treatment worked well and recovering well apart from the usual side effects. Glad you’re doing well too . Listening to someone else talk about the same as I’ve gone through is very helpful and comforting. Thank you ❤️
The way I got through wearing that mask was by using that time in radiation to pray to my God. After praising Him I prayed that the radiation was doing its job. I prayed for my healing and then I prayed for the healing of all the people I knew that needed help. By then the treatment was over! Being as claustrophobic as I am I decided that mask was there to kill all the cancers in my throat. It all really helped including letting me feel comforted under that mask. My body rejected that feeding tube and gave me a really hard time because the radiation doctor refuse to look at the site. For 3 weeks I had infections and sores until his nurse came back from vacation and helped me. The feeding tube comes out tomorrow and I will be on my way for complete healing. I had 33 radiation treatments and six chemo treatments after having my right tonsil removed and half of that side of my throat Plus three lymph nodes in my neck removed. One was cancerous and swollen, two more were taken just for precautions. I was only at stage one throat cancer and I really think that helped me get through without major side effects. But believe me the side effects you get are really uncomfortable. I was able to stay positive through most of it. I felt the only choices I had was to be upset and negative or be grateful it was found and was being taken care of. I chose to be positive! I am very claustrophobic and suffer from anxiety. Being positive really help. I wish all of you going through this type of cancer or any cancer, you stay positive, have very few side effects and heal completely!
Hi Steve, thank you for sharing your story. My name is Jon I too had tonsil cancer and just finished treatment 9 weeks post treatment 5 chemo and 35 radiation. I have.a question... I still have a sore in my mouth by the tonsil area that seems like it won't heal it scares me. Did you have any mouth sores post treatment, if so how long did they last. Please also let me know how you were at 9 weeks? Thank you kindly Jon
Hi Jon, I hope you are starting to feel slightly better after what I know is a pretty hideous ordeal. I think what is happening to you is normal. It took a good 3-4 months for my mouth to really feel normal again and even then I still often had the odd sore coming up! It will get better, it was even past four months before a beer tasted decent to me (and that is not good to an old sailor!). Again, nine weeks I was a lot better, but still lots of soreness in my mouth and throat and a few teeth problems. I don't mean to try and sell this, nut I wrote a book "The Optimistic Gardener - A gardener's Journey Through Throat Cancer" and it goes through my experiences all the way to a year after. It is available on Amazon here - www.amazon.ca/Optimistic-Gardener-Gardeners-Journey-Through/dp/B09V3WFLM1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2AEHSWX86A5WW&keywords=the+optimistic+gardener&qid=1660475913&sprefix=the+optimistic+gardener%2Caps%2C74&sr=8-1 It may help with things. Good luck!
I am recovering from throat cancer also. Last treatment July 29, 2023. 33 radiations and 6 chemo treatments. My throat is mostly healed except for behind my tongue where's feels at times there is a big scab. It doesn't necessarily hurt just annoying. Been told that is normal. Today is Sept 25, Oct 31st I go for a P.E.T. scan to see how things went. Am really hoping when I got to "ring that bell" I am truly cancer free. Getting the feeding tube out tomorrow, had many problems other people would not experience. My body is weird and it kept rejecting the feeding tube. Every one is a little different in how each body handles it. I didn't get all of those side effects I was told about, thank God. My praying and that of all my supporters I really feel helped. Wishing you the best and fastest healing ever!!!
Love all your videos, sorry to hear you had to go through this , Revelation 21 verses 3 and 4 states a promise from God that sickness and suffering and even death will soon end! Keep strong and safe.
Thanks so much Stephen for sharing your journey. Really appreciate your honesty. Very helpful. I've sent you a private message on Messenger. Have something optimistic 🙂 to share with you.
Many thanks for this. Can you please tell...why do you think you got this SCC? Was it P16 HPV? A) Drinking? B) Smoking? C) Cunnilingus?! D) Other...what?
I too am recovering from cancer treatment that ended in December 2020. The cancer is completely gone now and I'm learning to live with the side effects. The most annoying are the muscle cramps in the neck and jaw. Over all, I feel like I have my strength back and am looking forward to putting cancer in the past. Cheers
Yes I get a few cramps in my neck, but mostly if I am leaning that way, getting used to it 😀
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. Five weeks ago I finished my therapy of 7 chemo treatments and 35 radiation treatments for throat cancer. There was no chance of surgery for me because of the size and location of my tumor. I had to get a feeding tube because I lost my ability to eat as well as my taste, and desire for food. I am still on the feeding tube, learning to swallow again. I lost all my hair (which was previously down to my waist), so I am regrowing hair, learning to eat, learning to talk, and discovering stamina again finally. Like you, I am so grateful to my partner who literally walked me to every single appointment while I had zero energy to support myself. The oncology doctor has looked into my throat and declared that there is absolutely NO TUMOR remaining. So, Yippeeee!!!! I am so looking forward to curry again someday.
That sounds like a difficult time for you and very glad to here great news :) Hang in there with taste and how your throat feels. It is definitely a slow process, that curry will come back. I Have most all my things back, but it takes me a lot longer to eat. A small price to pay to still be here!
That’s interesting,I was also diagnosed with throat cancer here in the Uk,no surgery due to location and size of tumour,have just completed round 6/6 chemo,which I thought was bearable,fatigue being my major side effect,scan next week followed by immunotherapy….. my question to you is was the feeding tube an option rather than mandatory?
@@scambodia147 In my case I HAD to have a feeding tube because I could not and would not eat anything by mouth. I had no desire to eat. It was painful to even try to eat and I had lost my appetite completely. I lost 40 pounds before I even realized it. (145 down to 104 pounds). The feeding tube literally saved my life. Congrats on finishing your chemo!!!
I am in the middle of week three. The mouth sores are rude and disrespectful. I can see why people lose weight now. But I am blessed. Thank you sir, for this thoughtful video. I need all of the first person advice I can get.
keep going, it will get a bit more painful, just when you think it is all over, but you will soon be through it! I am feeling great, will actually be doing an update video this week, to let people know how I have done two year on.
47 years old 1 month post rads tonsil and lymph. Hard as hell. This video helps, thank you. God Bless.
Keep your chin up, this bit drags on, but I am so much better now and enjoying food again so much 😀
I know your pain . I had left tonsil SCC HPV+ and 2 lymph nodes at 30mm. Had the radical tonsillectomy (ridiculously painful). Had 35 sessions IMRT radiation over 7 weeks. I also had the cisplatin chemo therapy ( 3 high doses at 3 week intervals). I didn't have any neck surgery. By start week 4 of treatment after 2nd chemo my throat was really rough inside. My skin on the outside lasted till around week 6 and then was going downhill quick. By week 5 I was on liquid only diet of protein drinks which lasted for another 3 months till I felt up to eating solid food enough to get off the fluid only. So was a mix of both for a couple weeks then food again only. At 2 years post treatment my function's of taste and dry mouth are probably 85%. I have moderate hearing loss and tinitus but really when you look at the alternative I cant complain.
Glad to hear you have made it through! Yes, definitely worth the problems we have been left with :)
Thank you so much for sharing your journey, my gosh you have been through the run of it, you are one tough guy, it sounds absolutely awful and I can't imagine the everyday life of it. My prayers to you for your continued health journey! I am still in the stages of Oncology sending me for CT scan to see exact origin and if it's spread anywhere other than my lymph node in the neck...my insurance said I had to that first, they would't approve a PET scan right away. After being ignored by various negligent Doctors and incompetent office staff, such a long painful story.....5 months here I am with a diagnoses after a Biopsy done in December 2023 Metastatic Basiloid Squamous Cell Carcinoma, more Squamous is what I was told. 1 oncologist thinks origin is in throat plus I've had issues with one tonsil since August 2023. But of course I won't know until they get my tests done. Could also be origin of skin, this way too much and confusing without proper Testing and Diagnosis. I am not looking forward to any of the treatments/potential surgeries and being fitted, wearing that mask is going to be real difficult for me, I have extreme claustrophobia! I'm just praying it's not spread further! All of the sudden in past 1 month and half I have all these symptoms that aren't good. I started out with a swollen lymph node August 9th, found some tonsil stones and was diagnosed with strep with no other symptoms and didn't have any until my lymph node kept growing to the size of 4cm last checked in December. December is when I started feeling sick and appetite slowly decreasing to almost non existent, which is not the normal me, I've always eaten my through every ailment! So I've have been freaking out about this! Then the feeling of a lump in my throat when swallowing began a few weeks ago. Sorry for the long winded comment, its a long painful journey and the absolute worst hasn't come yet. would love to hear about your journey in more detail, I just purchased your Book, I am looking forward to that, thank you so much for sharing with us, it means the world to those of who are camera shy! Cheers from USA state of Indiana/Illinois
Thank you for your comment, it is not long winded at all. I hope you get your diagnosis soon and get to the treatment part so you can begin the process of healing! It is not a pleasant experience, but just know there is light at the end of the tunnel. Two years post treatment and i am feeling great. Good luck! Keep me informed.
Thank you so much for your reply, I'm glad to hear you are feeling great! I hope your Hip surgery is healing nicely too, it's a lot to go through with the cancer surgery. I have my diagnosis, its HPV positive tonsil cancer, right side metastatic lymph nodes on same side. I am waiting on surgery to schedule my full tonsillectomy and neck dissection. I would love any tips you can provide, I purchased and your read book, thank you for sharing with us. If there's anything you can share with me on tips for recovery, sleeping, eating, drinking I would be so Grateful. My surgeon was saying they would put in a feeding tube down my nose while I'm under. I am going to ask them if I can bring my own bags of nutrients for it, I can't imagine theirs is quality haha.
Looking forward to hearing from you again and glad to see you are doing well. @@TheOptimisticGardener
Thank you Steve, I hope your recovery has gone well. I’ve recently had the same surgery but I was spared from radiation and chemotherapy. You have given an honest outlook and assessment to the emotional and physical hurdles that you can face with this illness. You have me thinking of starting a garden now. I wish you and your family all the best in your future. Thank you for posting this, stay positive.
Thanks for your comment Bryan, glad to hear you have been spared the rad/chemo! Things are all good here, I have just had my two year and all clear check up, so very happy. I will always recommend having a bit of a garden, it helps with relieving stress in so many situations, a constant joy! If you at all interested I wrote a book about my experience. It is called The Optimistic Gardener - A Gardener's Journey Through Throat Cancer. I like to think it is mildly amusing, despite the title :) Anyway it is available on Amazon.
Thank you for sharing your story! You are a strong man! My husband had the exact type of treatment for cancer on the base of his tongue. He's 4 1/2 years out from his last treatment!! I'm sending you best wishes as you continue to heal!
That is good to hear :) And thank you!
One word that is the one guaranteed to strike terror in anyone's heart. God bless and prayers for your continued recovery.
Thank you :)
Your name is on my prayer list, Steve...I'm amazed at your productivity as you recover...best wishes to your family ❤️ Happy Spring 🐰🌷☘️
Thanks Helen :)
Thank you for sharing your story. It makes me appreciate your efforts on this channel even more. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers for your continuing recovery. Cheers, and keep on getting your hands dirty in the garden. God Bless!
Thanks Jasper :)
Your strength and courage is an inspiration Steve. Love to you and your family x
Thanks Louise for your kind words :)
You described the moment perfectly! Lol
I had a lump on the left side of my neck, that grew to the size of a plum within a month.
I had procrastinated about going to the doctor for a couple of months, cancelled my appointment several times because I was called in to work. Besides I had self diagnosed myself as it just being a cyst.
When I finally got there, Doc felt my neck, looked down my throat and then sat down and said “it’s highly probable that you have Throat Cancer “ I thought he had flipped his lid, I remember the commentary going through my head….
“What’s he on about? It’s just a cyst! This dude is bat💩 crazy! “
Month later seen specialist and he confirmed he agreed with my doctors diagnosis, and done the biopsy…. Think I spent the next few months in a bubble of denial
Thanks for your great comment, I hope you have got through treatment well and are on the mend?
@@TheOptimisticGardener thank you, yes I’m now 2.5years post treatment…. Half way to the golden 5yr mark! Still currently cancer free, I have my 3mthly check up next week 🤞
Side effects are manageable, drinking 3 - 5 litres of water a day to combat the dry mouth, regular physiotherapy to help regain neck mobility, unfortunately I had a previous neck injury and a shoulder injury on the same side as my tumours, which has been impacted by the radiation. Still hurts like crazy to yawn 🥱 and fatigue is still one of my biggest demons.
But I have my full tastebuds back, can eat most things again and I’ve grown accustomed to the permanent ringing in my ears.
I just had tonsil surgery and 2 cancerous lymph nodes taken from my neck. Same spot, same scar🤙 One of them burst open too. Im about to start up my radiation and chemo treatments in 2 weeks. Im 42 and terrified. Your video gave me some strength and your journey sounded like what the Dr said it would be. Im a pessimistic gardener, so finding this when i searched for neck cancer stories gave me a big smile. Now ive got a whole new channel to watch during these long days for treatments. Hope all is well.
@@paulengland1760 everything is going very well Paul. It is, as you already know with the surgery, a hard journey, but there will be light at the end of the tunnel. Good luck and stay positive, you'll pull through 😀
@@TheOptimisticGardener Cisplatin is my chemo drug. It's made of platinum, I asked if there was a gold or silver option. I'm a simple man.
Man you r the most polite person with whom I have met great man just be like this as you are you are a great person may god bless you and you have my blessings
And thank you for your comment :)
Just going through radiotherapy after having tonsillectomy and right side neck dissection. 2 weeks in taste has started to change, red meats are tasteless. Mine was HPV related and after 2 surgeries I was hoping for observation, no joy. I had to have several teeth extracted before I started radiotherapy. Good to hear your experience, trying to stay positive, and active.
@@Mossonthetopisallmineallmine keep the positivity. This will not be pleasant, but there is another side and your taste will be back!
Hi Steve! Same diagnosis around same time frame here -though my therapy SANS neck dissection & chemo ADDED.
Was horrible ordeal & I can relate to crying episodes. Hyper-emotionality (think it's a word!) continues to this day, but like you said, beats alternative! Thanks for sharing & hope you remain cancer free! kev
All good here thank you :)
Amen I I'm going through mouth cancer now and I ended up getting an infection and bad nausea and I couldn't eat. They don't tell you that. Prayers for you and your family
Thanks, I am really all fine now (I am going to do an update video this week). Hopefully you got through your infection and the rest of the treatment ok?
@@TheOptimisticGardener I'm in the middle of it right now, You never know when and what's going to hit you, i got thrush in my mouth that now is causing problems This sucks and you just want it to end, trying to swallow pills are hard also and I'm still can not eat any solids yet ug. I'm glad to hear your fine now I hope it stays that way for a long time, Thank you for taking the time to talk to me i don't feel so alone now.
This is probably the best video I’ve seen from the patient’s perspective. I’m about Halfway done here in Atlanta
Thanks Gari 😀 Keep your head up and even though it drags on a bit, you will soon be through it!
Thank you for sharing your Journey, Steve. It will be uplifting to anyone who has to start this dreaded path. You are looking great. Best wishes to you and your family.
Cheers Geordie :)
being in your garden is the best therapy,so great to hear youre doing good.
Thanks Lee :)
Base of tongue cancer, 35 radiation treatments. A lot of the same symptoms that you occurred. Wishing you the best! I fully understand what you're talking about.
I hope things are well with you now 👍
Last radiation treatment was May 11th, PET scan in August was clear. Go once a month for scopes, everything good so far!
So glad you're on the road to recovery, Steve! Blessings to you and your family!
Thank you 😊
Thank you for this! I just recovered from the removal of my tonsils and 30 lymph nodes. Got a scar justblike yours, lol. My appointment with Radio Oncology is Jan 3rd. I am just feeling better and pretty bummed that it is likely only a short break before the next phase. Just gotta embrace the suck and keep going. 👍
One day at a time and stay positive! I am going to do an update video in the next too weeks to show how far I have come on since that vid. Feeling great now and positive 2 years on :)
Sending you lots of prayers for a quick and full recovery!
Thank you so much for this video, I'm so happy I found you! This is the first video I've seen of yours, I am looking forward to seeing your updates! I'm sending you so many prayers of Great Health! @@TheOptimisticGardener
Hi there, how are you feeling now? I have surgery next week and driving myself crazy over every possible scenario!
@@user-qk3qj6ls6b Hi! I'm doing really good! Got some sense of taste back now 4 weeks after radiation. I lost a total of 30 lbs between surgery and radiation. What I would recommend is KEEP EATING. You won't want to, but getting those muscles working again as soon as you can is key. You got this! 👍😁
Thank you very much for making the video I to have chemo and radiation and your spot on. At the end, I was quite sick and I lost 40 pounds No taste yet no saliva yet but hopefully the day will come. I will find out in two weeks if I am clear. One day at a time and appreciate life.
Yes indeed, keep your spirits up, it'll get easier now. A few months for your taste to come back, but keep the faith!
Thank you so much Steve for sharing this, I'll be treasuring your words in my journey . I've been diagnosed with the same thing and I'm just about to have my operation. (I'm sh...... my self) I hope all is good with you. Many Thanks! Sandro
Keep the faith Sandro and know that there is an end and a good one. It's an intense journey, but "eye on the prize" and you will come through. I am feeling great and living life to the full :)
Hi there, how are you feeling now? I'm having the same surgery next week and driving myself crazy with every possible scenario!
Thank you for sharing your journey with us! Your words bring courage and hope to those who need it.
I hope so Judi! Thanks for your kind comment :)
thank you! I was just diagnosed and I'm now waiting for surgery. Your story was just what I needed to hear.
Good luck and keep the faith!
I’m so sorry to hear you have been on that “not nice journey”. So glad your garden and your family has brought you through the tough times. Stay strong and we look forward to seeing you in your garden this spring time.
Thank you for your kind words. Upwards and onwards, i am looking forward to a wonderful summer in the garden and my new greenhouse :)
Speedy recovery!
Thank you!
Thank you for being so honest and forthright about your experience.
My friend was also treated at the QEII for a brutal breast cancer regime. She came through for her three young boys. I'm so glad you are on the mend! And I hope your wife and some are managing too.
I love watching and seeing your property because I'm home sick but I don't miss trying to garden in those rocks and lack of soil! ☺️
Best to you and to your family and your continued recovery.
Thank you Anne for your lovely comment. Feeling stronger every day (mostly!). Ethan and Sara are in good spirits, now winter is over :)
My father is getting treatment for neck cancer with radiation and chemotherapy as surgery is not possible please pray for him.
Keep the faith!
Reassuring ! To the point ! And in a language you can understand.....cheers mate ❤
Thank you very much for this. I had exactly the same operation with one side of my lypmth nodes removed and a tumour at the base of the tongue. A bit of a shite Xmas, to be fair. I am now awaiting my final chemo and am halfway through my 30 radiotherapy sessions. I can no longer do solids but the Mrs has been helping and I have been inventing some things myself to get me through. Odd that you mention being in the navy, I was in the Royal Marines for 20 months (medical discharge) but the thinking of other things while enduring discomfort was something they trained me to do. Nice that it has come in handy after all these years. What really cheered me up was you telling us that the taste buds come back. I have a summer cottage booked back in the UK (I live in Seville - wonderful health service!), and I am really looking forward to noshing on Norfolk fish and chips. Oh, and finally getting a beer down me with my family. This is about the most helpful video I have seen. Thank you very much. Keep up the good work!
This is a really crap time for you, but keep the faith, if you look at the follow on video, two years later I am so much better, a few issues, but food tastes great :). Good luck!
@@TheOptimisticGardener Thanks for the comments , having a ganders at the video now. I have subscribed and will recommend to my mate who has an allottment and is well into growing his own vegetable. I also benefit as he often gives me his produce and will probably lend him a hand (I used to be a gardener when I was younger).
Thank you for sharing your experience. I also believe my time in my garden both physically and mentally is a healing time. Sending prayers for your continued recovery.
Thanks Crystal :)
Glad to hear things are getting better in general, gardening is definitely some of the best medicine.
Feeling much better now and all the new plants growing is definitely helping. I am definitely optimistic about the future :)
Thank you for sharing your journey, keep us updated. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Stay Optimistic
Thank you! Will do!
thank you for sharing.
Thank you for sharing! I too had surgery and I start 30 rounds of radiation today. I appreciate you being honest of the journey and what it is like once radiation is finished. So happy for you and happy gardening!
Thanks for your nice comment :)
Hi Steve, I'm so glad I ran across your video today. Its wonderful how God puts things in front of you to see... I've been contemplating how to tell my story, and watching yours has absolutely inspired me and encouraged me to do so right away because even though My story is still unfolding, Im sure it can help others to not suffer as I did knowing what you and I have learned the hard way...I am 2 years battling this thing doing everything else possible to avoid Radiation and Chemotherapy...and after 2 years 4 surgeries... I am now unreluctantly headed to 6 weeks of Radiation treatment. So much happens from the moment you hear the c word... an incredible Revelation and redefining of one's way of thinking and living.... Thank You for Sharing Your Story!!🙏🏼
Good luck and just remember there is an end!
You have been added to my prayer list for healing and complete recovery. I appreciate this video. God bless.
Thank you, most kind :)
Hello there. Im also an avid allotmenteer in the UK and found your journey very interesting. Ive gor cancer of the tongue, had it cut out and out back together. Im in-between chairs right now, waiting for my the outcome of my lymph glands analysis begore I start radiotherapy. I agree with the dry mouth and am 3 weeks post op. Now on solids and having to salt mouth wash 5 times a day. What I didn't know, is that radiotherapy could alter my taste as I am also a foodie. Never smoked and occasionally drink a glass of wine, this came out of the blue. Im glad you are back on par and thank you for sharing your story. All the best, Elaine 👍
Thanks for your comment Elaine. Definitely be prepared for the loss of taste if you have radiotherapy and it took a good few months after to get back some normality. It is two years now and feeling good, with I believe all my taste back 😀
@@TheOptimisticGardener got to treat it like covid, lost my taste and smell back then laugh. At least I won't lose my sense of humour. Stay positive and keep on gardening 😁 🌱🌱
Thank you for posting your story Steve. My story is slightly different to yours but it has definitely helped me to hear it. I had 6 cycles of chemo and 30 fractions of radiotherapy. Taste for most things is coming back but similar to yourself I find some things difficult to swallow. I still have more appointments this month so hopefully will get some answers. My oncologist said it looks good but that was at the 6 week point and there’s still a lot of swelling. Feeling much better now. I had a few other complications that were life threatening so I have to be grateful and positive like you said in the video. Thanks again and keep on gardening as it’s a great way to spend the days.
Thanks for your great comment :) Good luck!
Hi. Very nice video of your personal journey. Big hugs n warm thoughts to all the medical professionals involved n especially your wife n son who have supported you. I feel your garden saved you mentally n emotionally, giving you an outlet for your feelings that can't always be expressed verbally to someone; but you can express it in tasks done, a weed pulled, a nail hammered, seeds planted n see new growth as you have grown thru this tough journey. I wish you continued good health to you n too your garden. Peace to you and yours
Thanks for your kind words Kiki and spot on with the "express it in tasks done.." :)
Thank you for this video I am just starting this journey and hearing from a person who has experienced this and given me a honest idea of what is in store has helped massively. I wish you all the best in your recovery and thank you
Hi Paul, it is a difficult time, but I am glad that this video has helped a little. I am still here feeling good, so there is light at the end of the dark tunnel. Not wanting to use this to sell you something, but I have written a book about my journey through my treatment. I think it is a very honest portrayal, with a bit of humour in there and I wrote it to help other people in the same situation. You can et it here: www.amazon.ca/Optimistic-Gardener-Gardeners-Journey-Through/dp/B09V3WFLM1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2VY854T2CZS9E&keywords=the+optimistic+gardener&qid=1667232543&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=%2Caps%2C131&sr=8-1
So glad you've managed to stay positive through it all. What doesn't kill you will make you stronger. Gardening is great for your mental healing. Keep up your inspirational videos .🌴
Thanks for your kind words :)
Thank you for sharing. It must have been a very difficult time for you. Very best wishes for a productive and happy Spring.
Thanks Gillian and the same to you :)
Steve,
Thank you for sharing your story. Takes courage to do so. I was diagnosed in September of 2022 with SCC in the same location. 7 weeks of radiation and chemo followed by a neck dissection to remove some lymph nodes. Just finished a 5 1/2 week radiation treatment to ensure everything is gone. Tough roses for sure.
Thanks for your comment and glad you have come through ok. It takes a few months to get over things, but I am feeling great now, just a bit slower eating and sometimes get a bit of cramp in my neck :)
Thanks Charlie. This is probably one of the most powerful things that I’ve ever watched. So important to get more information like this out there.
Thanks Pete, that's a really nice thing to say :)
Thanks for telling your story, Steve! Same diagnosis around same time as you, but here in U.S., my treatment INCLUDED chemotherapy & BYPASSED lymph node excision (can't imagine THAT pain...) As you say, the interest in a pastime/hobby (music's mine) is invaluable! Hope we BOTH beat it!!
Thanks for your comment and good luck to you! I recently had my two years clear, so very happy with that :)
So glad you made it through!!! What type of throat cancer. I have HPV associated tonsilar cancer. Doing radiation 35 sessions and chemo 7 visits. No taste. Not a tremendous amount of pain tho I’m only 4 weeks in. Occasional nausea. No robotic surgery as part of mass was near jaw bone.
Hi HopeDealer63! My cancer was same as yours, -involving tonsillectomy, chemo, & radiation.
All became too much for me (wt loss, absence of taste, lethargy/weakness, & couple compassionLESS practioners), so opted out -short of prescribed treatment duration. Coincidentally/?Miraculously?, "de-escalation" of therapy (when HPV root cause) was trending...
Think I beat it, & wish SAME for YOU!
@@badtriad9684 thank you so much! Wish you nothing but peace and a long life
I just discovered your channel You’re sharing you journey with this shows everyone you’re strength may you continue to enjoy your green house not only are you a great carpenter but a great person too!!!
And thanks Brian for your kind comment. I hope you enjoy the more light hearted content on my channel :)
Brilliant, I am getting over the same, ear to ear operation, both side lymph nodes removed and laser of inside if throat, had radiotherapy 30 sessions as well and chemotherapy, chemotherapy is really bad, finished a week ago , lost 25 lbs, getting stronger by the day. Fantastic video
Hi and thanks for your great comment. You've had it full on! Much good luck going forward. Patience with the recovery, but it will get better!
That was brave of you to share such a personal story on this channel with us. And being honest with what you went through will help a lot of people who are facing the same treatment... Love your accent by the way. Lived in England (Bournemouth) for 7 years and listening to you reminds me of the good times I had. All the best from Germany
Thank you Silke for your kind words and you have a lovely name :)
I also didn't watch this...I'm glad I did. Your Navy training shows.
Darn spell check! I almost didn't watch this, I'm glad I did.
Inspiring listening to you talk Steve! Sometimes things feel like it's never going to end, and you've just proved that we have to keep our eye on the prize in order to come out on the other side.
Yah! Eating curry so soon might not have been the thing. :D.
I'm smiling as I think of the stern look my Doc gave me after I told him I'd purchased 35.00 worth of cheese to consume after only 10 weeks from gall bladder removal. I told him the Specialist told me I could try foods after 10 weeks!
I think I cause this Doc fits!
Good on ya, and may you enjoy many more healthy years!
Thanks Carla! I am midway through your soil book at the moment, I am going to do a video on soil and its importance. The book is a dry read :)
I wish you all the best in your continued recovery. You have done amazing to have kept going and doing your youtube videos and starting your new business through all of that. Although it must have been a horrendous experience you should be so proud of yourself.
Thank you smithy for your kind words :)
I'm going through exactly the same
Pain I'm going is beyond
Juat about to have my lymph nodes out
Thank you for this and Mrs F xxx
And to you and your's
Bloody he'll though ... that was THE worst pain lol xxx
Thanks for sharing your story. My father is going through same situation now. Just 2 days ago operation was done. Still in hospital. Your story given us soo much strength. God bless you.
I am glad I could help. If you ever need any other advice about this, don't hesitate to message me. I don't mean to be trying to sell something to you, but I also wrote a book about my experience. I believe it has helped those that have read it :) It is available on Amazon, here - www.amazon.ca/Optimistic-Gardener-Gardeners-Journey-Through/dp/B09V3WFLM1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LNU7QQ1ENE2R&keywords=the+optimistic+gardener&qid=1666628844&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-1
Very helpful for what to expect in the near future, thanks for posting! After weeks of a soar throat and left ear pain, yesterday I was diagnosed with a base of tongue tumor which I fully expect to be malignant when the biposy surgery is completed in a few days. Although I have not been notified about the CT scan results, I'm prepared for the news about size and scope of the mass. I've learned that Squamous Cell Carsonima (SCC) is the most common culprit. Oddly enough, just last year (2022) I required open surgery of the esougphas through the neck due to a growth called a Zinkers Diverticlum which blocked the esouhphas with a 5cm growth preventing me from swallowing. No mention of any cancerous tissue at that time. This was rough go as well requiring use of an NG feeding tube for about 6 weeks and the loss of 35 lbs post surgery. Based on what I've learned, the base of the tongue area is the most difficult location to access and treat, so we will see how this works out over the next year or so... Cheers from Alabama!
Good luck and keep the faith!
Thank you for sharing this personal part of your life Steve. You're absolutely right about two things in particular - most people don't discuss cancer beyond the clinical except to maybe close family and a friend or two. The other thing that struck me is you talking about worrying how other people are coping.
Isn't it strange - *you* are the one who needs to be selfish (is that the right word?) and by rights just focussed on your own health, yet here you are, compelled to shield your loved ones from the negative thoughts so that they feel ok.
Humans are funny animals.
Telling your story, warts and all, is just as important to you as it will be for someone out there who comes across this video just when they need it.
Stay well and positive, your thoughts define your reality.
From my family here in the Antipodes to yours.
Such a lovely comment C&B :) Yes humans are definitely funny animals!
@@TheOptimisticGardener You can call me Carol :)
The 'B' is my bloke Bryan.
So glad you continue to be on the mend. Sharing your journey will certainly help those who are afraid, and show that if u remain positive anything is possible. Wish you all best with your continued recovery. From G&B allotments.
Thanks G&B!
Thankyou for Sharing Your Journey.. It’s Huge...We are all pulling for you! Love your spirit.. fellow gardener!
And thank you for your kind comment heroness :)
Thank you for sharing your story and helping other patients to feel less anxious and hopeful!
Thanks for your comment, still going strong :)
I found your channel because of you sharing , I love gardening so I subscribed , my husband had a few biopsies on his throat the drs said it is Barrett’s disease and was told it was pre cancer so , he discovered he has prostate cancer , hernias and kidney disease with stones so he needs two more surgeries , he is now worried about eating healthy, I’m going to buy your book ,thank you for sharing your experience and I look forward to looking through your playlist !
Wow, thanks for your comment and I hope your husband gets through it all with the minimum of discomfort. I have just had a hernia op and will be having a new hip in their Autumn, so not out of the woods yet! I hope you find my videos useful :)
@@TheOptimisticGardener , I need to be more optimistic so , I look forward to reading your book hope your surgery goes as well as expected ,
Thanks for sharing you story Steve. Amazing. Glad you are still here and what a journey!!! 🙏
And thank you for your comment :)
That's quite some journey you've been on Steve. Listening to you is like seeing someone in 2 parallel lives. One pushing through unknown territory just trying to get to the other side and the other your garden which has kept you rooted and given you a sense of reality and control over at least one part of your life. This video will definitely help many people who are about to embark on this unwanted journey and don't know what to expect. I hope you are feeling a lot better now and you can enjoy your wonderful greenhouse and garden.
Thank you, great comments :)
Brilliant video, thanks for making it. Like plenty of other viewers I'm just at the start of dealing with this very annoying type of cancer. Your story has helped bring to life what's coming up. And curry is definitely going to be on the menu before radiation starts. Hope you're well now.
I am doing very well now thank you and good luck!
Your such a sweet man for your personal testimony and its good to hear it all in your own simplistic way. Doctors dont explain is very good.
So nice of you :)
Thank you for sharing! The journey through cancer treatment is not an easy one. Much love and admiration to you and your Mrs! You sound like an amazing team!🥰 Shalom 💕
And thanks for your lovely comment Laura :)
Thank you. My friend is going through the same struggle. Thanks for sharing yours.
Sorry to hear that. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask or I believe my book (link in the video description) is helpful.
Your journey was a inspiration to me I also had radiation for 7 weeks finished in June 30 have feeding tube for 9 months try to eat but flema after radation get in the way of me trying to eat but with my Lord and your story I will get through it ❤
It will get better. We just have to get used to a new us and work around it.
Well done. I'm past the surgery almost one month and about to start radiation.
Hang in there Pete, this will be hard, but remember there is an end :)
@@TheOptimisticGardener Thank you.
It’s all worth it in the end, Pete . I’m 8 months post treatment and have been told the treatment has worked extremely well 😊
@@Annodsenrab Thank you Donna.
Thanks for sharing your story! My journey is remarkably similar to yours. Right down to the size of the tumors. I have 9 radiation sessions left. Hopefully I won't have all the trouble afterwards like you did. I am in massachusetts. God bless and thanks again.
Thanks for your comment and good luck in your remaining journey! Just keep hanging in there and know that there is an end even though it may seem to go on longer than you want. I have just had my two years clear, so happy with that :)
@@TheOptimisticGardener congratulations on two healthy years!!
I'll tell everyone about you *MR OBALAR* coming across your TH-cam channel was a blessing, I'm free from hpv, victory at last.
Thanks, you have made me feel a lot better :)
I am glad I could help. If you ever need any other advice about this, don't hesitate to message me. I don't mean to be trying to sell something to you, but I also wrote a book about my experience. It is available on Amazon, here - www.amazon.ca/Optimistic-Gardener-Gardeners-Journey-Through/dp/B09V3WFLM1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LNU7QQ1ENE2R&keywords=the+optimistic+gardener&qid=1666628844&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjAwIiwicXNhIjoiMC4wMCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMDAifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-1
This is super helpful thank you. Bless you for your courage and heart. May you heal with ease.
Thank you 😊 I am very much better now and I would say healed and feeling great!
Thank you for sharing its very scary I have a condition called oral lichen planus in my mouth under tongue and gums !! It helped me look at things differently thank you
Keep your chin up, there is an end an other side :)
Thank you for sharing. Blessings for continued health.
Thank you Cyndi :)
Hi Steve, what a journey. Im happy to see you thriving again. Question: Did you lose any weight prior treatment maybe due to stress or being worried?
Thanks for sharing your story.
Lost weight and put it all on again :)
Job's a good 'un Steve, well done x
I wish fast recovery
I'll tell everyone about you *MR OBALAR* coming across your TH-cam channel was a blessing, I'm free from hpv, victory at last.
Thank you for sharing your story. Best wishes!
Cheers Dave :)
I had squamous cell carcinoma on my epiglottis and a spot on my voice box that was surgically removed 7 weeks ago, went in for a follow-up, they found another tumor that is inoperable and is recommending radiation.
So here I am patient stories
Thank you for sharing your experience. Best wishes to you and your family.
Thank you Krista :)
I'm 14 radiation sessions and 3 chemo sessions into my treatment now, and my major issue is that all foods are repulsive. It doesn't matter what it is, the taste not gone, but replaced with something resembling drippings from a port roast left on the kitchen counter for a few days to go rancid. If it was just loss of taste, that would be a bonus. I have found videos like yours tremendously helpful in preparing for this, so I am also making weekly video updates for family and friends, with the hope that they may also be of help to someone going through this in the future.
I'm starting chemo and radiation
next week. I'm very concerned. Thanks for the video.
Sending prayers of strength with a quick and smooth healing your way ❤🩹 I have a tonsillectomy and neck dissection coming next week for now, I'm praying they get it all out and won't need radiation❤🩹
Good luck and keep the faith, there is an end :)
This is a very useful video and so glad that you were able to do it. Where in NS are you. Spent a lot of time in the 1980's working out of CAF Base Greenwood during my 30 year RAF career.
Glad it was helpful Glyn. I am in Hubbards and I won't hold it against you that you were in the RAF :) My Dad served in the RAF during the Second World War. He flew in Lancasters and was shot down over Holland!
Hi , I'm going through exactly the same diagnosis with tonsil being primary and spread to lymph node
Just had my op and OMG it really was the worst pain I've experienced and still am in pain 13 days on
I need 7 weeks of radiation daily and 1 day a week of chemo
Thanks for being honest about your experience
Any tips on pain relief ? I'm finding that I'm suffering terrible ear ache !
Due to have my wisdom teeth out this week then start therapy March 6 th
Hope you and yours are well
Melissa x
Hi Melissa, I am very well now thank you and thanks for your comment. I am sorry to hear that you had to go through this, but the good thing is it will come to an end! The pain, as we have both experienced, is defo not on my top 100 experiences. I am gutted i can't remember the actual pills that really helped me, post the op, but they were to help with "nerve pain". They were proscribed to me by my family doctor after i could hardly sleep for the first five days. They were in addition to the hydra-morphine that I was taking, but they really really helped. Your pain will subside quite quickly over the next few weeks at least. I was fortunate not to suffer from earache. I always feel bad doing this but I recommend reading the book that I wrote about my experience going through this www.amazon.ca/Optimistic-Gardener-Gardeners-Journey-Through/dp/B09V3WFLM1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2XLRVV2AA5OUP&keywords=the+optimistic+gardener&qid=1677095841&s=books&sprefix=the+optimistic+gardener%2Cstripbooks%2C181&sr=1-1 . I like to think it adds a bit of humour to an otherwise pretty hideous experience. Good luck and please let me know how you get on!
Oxy codeine where my pain meds, and they really helped. Hope you have a doctor that is willing to prescribe them! Wishing you well and hope for a speedy recovery.
Thank you for you story. And I hope you keep going forward, your attitude won't be the problem!
Thank you, I will :)
Thank you for sharing.
My pleasure! Update video coming this week I hope :)
Very helpful video... sailing into this "harbor" in the next few weeks. Thank you!
Good luck! Any other questions, don't hesitate to contact me :)
Hi Steve, I hope you are doing great now🙏🏻I would love some tips on recovery from surgery and to see how you are now these days with it. I will be going through the same surgery soon, a date hasn’t been set yet. I’m freaking out about it and was hoping to prepare as best as I can 🙏🏻
Thank you :) Here is my follow up video. th-cam.com/video/vCirZPUd6eE/w-d-xo.html It is definitely not going to be pleasant. Just keep up with the meds and know that the pain will lesson quickly after a couple of weeks.
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. At this point, when I am given two treatment options, your vivid story has been enlightening. I have the same thing you had, a primary about 2cm in the base of my tongue (right tonsil) and a secondary 2.5cm on the side lymph glands. The options I get are radical lymph glands removal and robotic surgery for the primary, or, CRT (35 radiations) using IMRT. I had preliminary chosen CRT, but after seeing your video, I am inclined toward the surgery; however, I have been told that there is a possibility (such as in your case) that after surgery, I had to undergo RT. I have two questions about your case that I hope you can answer. First, was your primary HPV+? Mine is. Second, was your RT IMRT? Finally, knowing what you know now, which option would you choose? Many thanks for help, wishing you all the best
Sorry to bother you but I'd like your feedback please? I'm about 5 weeks post radiation completion. I started feeling better and was down to one pain pill a day but within 24 hours the swelling and pain returned and I now do 4 pain pills within 24 hours. The only thing I changed was drinking Perrier as the bubbles seemed to help cleanse while I hydrated. Is a return to pain and swelling normal? I'll contact the radiologist today. Thanks.
Hi Pete, sorry to here about your pain. So, I can't really comment from a properly giving you advice, as obviously I am not a doctor. Don't ever be afraid of contacting your doc though. After 5 weeks I still had ups and downs with pain though. In fact after four months we stay in town to have a bit of a celebration after seeing the doc and get the proper all clear and I tried to drink alcohol and it was proper painful, so it does take a bit of time. Defo contact your doc though and good luck!
@@TheOptimisticGardener Thank you very much for responding. I've messaged the oncologist and radiologist. thanks again!
Love the references to "Double Days" . . . those who know, will know ;)
Indeed :)
I forget that something that is such a familiar phrase to me, probably isn't to most people :)
I was so worried about wearing the mask . I managed to get through all 30 treatments without panicking too much !
Brilliant! I remember the first couple of times weren't very nice at all, but you just train yourself I think. I hope are doing well now, feeling great myself :)
@@TheOptimisticGardener it was the worst part for me as silly as it sounds . Yeah the treatment worked well and recovering well apart from the usual side effects. Glad you’re doing well too . Listening to someone else talk about the same as I’ve gone through is very helpful and comforting. Thank you ❤️
The way I got through wearing that mask was by using that time in radiation to pray to my God. After praising Him I prayed that the radiation was doing its job. I prayed for my healing and then I prayed for the healing of all the people I knew that needed help. By then the treatment was over! Being as claustrophobic as I am I decided that mask was there to kill all the cancers in my throat. It all really helped including letting me feel comforted under that mask. My body rejected that feeding tube and gave me a really hard time because the radiation doctor refuse to look at the site. For 3 weeks I had infections and sores until his nurse came back from vacation and helped me. The feeding tube comes out tomorrow and I will be on my way for complete healing. I had 33 radiation treatments and six chemo treatments after having my right tonsil removed and half of that side of my throat Plus three lymph nodes in my neck removed. One was cancerous and swollen, two more were taken just for precautions. I was only at stage one throat cancer and I really think that helped me get through without major side effects. But believe me the side effects you get are really uncomfortable. I was able to stay positive through most of it. I felt the only choices I had was to be upset and negative or be grateful it was found and was being taken care of. I chose to be positive! I am very claustrophobic and suffer from anxiety. Being positive really help. I wish all of you going through this type of cancer or any cancer, you stay positive, have very few side effects and heal completely!
Hi Steve, thank you for sharing your story. My name is Jon I too had tonsil cancer and just finished treatment 9 weeks post treatment 5 chemo and 35 radiation. I have.a question... I still have a sore in my mouth by the tonsil area that seems like it won't heal it scares me. Did you have any mouth sores post treatment, if so how long did they last. Please also let me know how you were at 9 weeks?
Thank you kindly
Jon
Hi Jon, I hope you are starting to feel slightly better after what I know is a pretty hideous ordeal. I think what is happening to you is normal. It took a good 3-4 months for my mouth to really feel normal again and even then I still often had the odd sore coming up! It will get better, it was even past four months before a beer tasted decent to me (and that is not good to an old sailor!). Again, nine weeks I was a lot better, but still lots of soreness in my mouth and throat and a few teeth problems. I don't mean to try and sell this, nut I wrote a book "The Optimistic Gardener - A gardener's Journey Through Throat Cancer" and it goes through my experiences all the way to a year after. It is available on Amazon here - www.amazon.ca/Optimistic-Gardener-Gardeners-Journey-Through/dp/B09V3WFLM1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2AEHSWX86A5WW&keywords=the+optimistic+gardener&qid=1660475913&sprefix=the+optimistic+gardener%2Caps%2C74&sr=8-1 It may help with things. Good luck!
I am recovering from throat cancer also. Last treatment July 29, 2023. 33 radiations and 6 chemo treatments. My throat is mostly healed except for behind my tongue where's feels at times there is a big scab. It doesn't necessarily hurt just annoying. Been told that is normal. Today is Sept 25, Oct 31st I go for a P.E.T. scan to see how things went. Am really hoping when I got to "ring that bell" I am truly cancer free. Getting the feeding tube out tomorrow, had many problems other people would not experience. My body is weird and it kept rejecting the feeding tube. Every one is a little different in how each body handles it. I didn't get all of those side effects I was told about, thank God. My praying and that of all my supporters I really feel helped. Wishing you the best and fastest healing ever!!!
Love all your videos, sorry to hear you had to go through this , Revelation 21 verses 3 and 4 states a promise from God that sickness and suffering and even death will soon end! Keep strong and safe.
Thanks Peg, apologies I have only just seen this comment :)
Pegjones doesn't that Bible reference refer to the second coming of Christ? I am studying the Bible again and like to know the takes of other minds.
Thanks so much Stephen for sharing your journey. Really appreciate your honesty. Very helpful. I've sent you a private message on Messenger. Have something optimistic 🙂 to share with you.
Many thanks for this. Can you please tell...why do you think you got this SCC? Was it P16 HPV?
A) Drinking?
B) Smoking?
C) Cunnilingus?!
D) Other...what?
@@perceivingacting I was told HPV