They are being aggressive but It’s probably because this cancer can come back and can be so damaging.

I was diagnosed with SCC T3,N0 9 years ago but originating in my ear. One of the more valuable pieces of information I received from my doctors at Mayo MN postop was that not all radiation therapy is created equal. It does depend on the radiation oncologist and their equipment capabilities. A referral oncology center may be the best choice. I ended up receiving 70Gy along with weekly Cetuximab at University of Michigan which is an hour drive from home, vs the 10 hours to Mayo. Mayo radiologist recommended the head and neck radiation oncologist there as world class, as opposed to radiation therapy at a local hospital. I have not had a local recurrence in this time, but have metastatic SCC which has required surgery and my current Cemiplimab Immunotherapy. It pays to look for the best and ask for second opinions. Radiation with targeted therapy was difficult as sore mouth and throat progressed along with changes in taste and nausea from the infusions. With a feeding tube, it may be easier to keep up on nutrition, but I never had one.