@terriwright69
I am sorry you are dealing with this rare cancer. Is your diagnosis squamous cell carcinoma? I was diagnosed with squamous cell cancer almost 3 years ago at age 74. My gynecological oncologist told me the cancer was a result of very long term steroid use (for an entirely unrelated health issue), HPV, and old age. Because the steroids suppressed my immune system, my body never cleared the HPV. I had surgery to remove the tumor followed by 35 sessions of pelvic radiation and 6 rounds of chemotherapy with cisplatin. I was very fortunate to be treated at an NCI Center of Excellence. Other than the occasional UTI and treatment related issues (diarrhea, fatigue, sore skin around the treatment area, weight loss), I have been spared long term treatment related consequences so far. I go faithfully to follow-up appointments and contact my gyn-onc with any questions/symptoms that occur. If you have any specific questions, I will certainly try to address them based on my own personal experiences. Has your doctor done a biopsy? If so, what type and stage of cancer does the biopsy report show? What are the doctors recommendations going forward? I know how very frightening this diagnosis is and how little is known about treating this cancer. I got a notebook and wrote down all my questions and worries before each appointment as well as the information the doctor gave me. I also had my sister to go with me for the chemo infusions and some of the initial meetings. These early days following a diagnosis of cancer are overwhelming, but taking one step at a time may help you feel more in control of this unexpected situation. It is your right to ask as many questions as you have and to keep asking until you get answers that make sense to you. Take as much time as you need to make your decisions. Please let us know how you are managing.