Pam
My Dad was just diagnosed today with oral cancer. Today has been a shock for my family. I am the youngest of six kids and we have friends and family who have been diagnosed with cancer - we never thought it could happen to our family. As I grew up I watched both my parents enjoy smoking and drinking together and with friends. My Dad is a "funny" person always full of jokes - well he is not laughing now and smoking is no longer enjoyable. His procedure is to get teeth pulled and given radiation treatments and possibly cutting out part of his tongue and palette. He may not be able to speak not to mention the "toll" 6 weeks of radiation will do to him. Time is not forever - you may think what you do is cool and enjoyable now but it will catch up with you!