Hello @vickimartin , I was 34 when I had acinic cell carcinoma, R. parotidectomy. The margins weren't clear, as the tumor was spreading onto my face. This was 1994. The radiation was harsh, doctors tell me that now. I lost all my hair on the back of my head and it didn't come back! Good thing I like short hair and was just glad to be cancer-free.
I lost my hearing for almost a year after that. Now I have learned to cope with tinnitus and hearing loss requiring hearing aids. I'm just grateful for all I can do to cope.
I've learned that while illness informs my life, it doesn't define me.
My mouth gradually (a couple of years) became easier to talk and speak. However I have the same problems everyone has mentioned with swallowing. (Plus I have Sjogrens Syndrome, autoimmune illness. This causes dry mouth also, )
For everyone: The best thing I've learned is to give myself time to cope with new symptoms. In time, they become part of my day. I don't focus on symptoms the same way once I get information and take care of basics!