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Proton versus Photon for HPV tonsil cancer
Head & Neck Cancer | Last Active: 4 days ago | Replies (22)Comment receiving replies
There is another factor that I have to consider, that being my family history of alzhiemers and dementia.
I went back to the mainland about 15 years ago to take care of my mother. I watched her for two years walk around the house at 2 in the morning talking to the ceiling. I don't have a death wish, but I don't want to end up like that, or even worse, in some crappy govt mental health facility laying around waiting on someone to come by and change my diaper.
I've got a call in to my doctor here to discuss that. Just forego any radiation, treat the symptoms as best as can be expected, and me and the wife make the most of whatever time we have left together.
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@toleolu That's a tough choice for one to make. I went through treatment of SCC on the base of the tongue in 2006 at 49. None of the information I find here today was available to me then. I've had the typical side effects and have learned to live with most of them. The most frustrating one is the brain fog. With a sister who has dementia, I understand your concern. Another sister was treated for tongue cancer in 2023 at 73, and then again in 2025. The second time around she opted for immunotherapy rather than losing her tongue and it had no effect. She passed away a couple of days ago, and it was not easy way to go. We don't know what life will hand us, but opting to skip treatment has real consequences. Live circumstances and age may be a factor, as I've since been able to enjoy 4 grandchildren since then. I hope whatever your choice may be, that it is the one that suits your needs. Good luck!