Thanks so much for your reply @jlmcclure. Your treatment plan sounds similar to what's on tap for my husband (other than the proton radiation, he'll be receiving IMRT). I'm sorry to hear you had a recurrence necessitating more treatment but relieved to hear it was successful for you! I hope you are doing well and never have to go through that again. It sounds like you have a really positive attitude and I appreciate you sharing your experience.

How long were you stable after your surgery, before the recurrence? What had your regimen been before your surgery? Were mouth/throat sores ever a problem for you? That was hands down the worst problem for my husband the first time and I'm really hoping it won't be the case this time. He's in such better shape physically now than he had been the first time. He is actually asymptomatic at this point other than some fatigue over the past 6 months or so. Jeff had been in remission since mid-2020, nearly 4 years, which I believe is a good prognostic factor for success this time. He never had surgery the first time and isn't a candidate now but the chemo alone, albeit protracted, did get him NED for all that time. We are very hopeful that with the addition of radiation this time he'll be able to reach NED again. This is the goal according to our doctors. I know no matter what he may face as far as symptoms related to this treatment go, he's ready for anything to beat this again.

The doctors tell you what side effects *may* happen but like you said everyone responds differently and I hope his course will be as smooth as possible.

I think this forum is a wonderful resource and I thank you again for sharing. I wish you continued success and good health!
Lynn