I had Squamous Cell Cancer at the base of my tongue.right side-center. I also had cancer in my lymph node, right side of neck. The treatment was 7 weeks of radiation-35 sessions and weekly chemotherapy. I know what you mean when you say pain in the neck. For a period of time it would take me an hour to get a boost down. I remember wishing for the day i could enjoy eating again.
My last treatment was May 5th- It has now been 5 months and yes i have some days of little pain and others of more. I am transitioning into a more "normal " diet yet I have discovered that certain foods agitate my throat and brings back pain. I am learning to experiment. I cannot say i enjoy eating but live in hope that one day i will. A positive of this is a am now at the weight i should be, 48 lbs lighter. My experience so far is to be patient and know that i am so much better than even a month ago. My anticipation is next month I will be even better. I hope you will be too.