Hello Basboy. 

I'm sorry to hear about your recent diagnosis of tonsil cancer but it's good to know that you're recovery from surgery is going well. It sounds like you've got a really positive mindset to approach the rest of your treatment and I know this will stand you in good stead. 

We've quite a few members here on the forum who have been through treatment for oral cancers and I'd suggest you start by having a look at this thread and this thread. There's lots(!) to read but I'm sure you'll pick up some advice and tips to help you through the coming months. 

I'd also suggest having a look for posts by [@RadioactiveRaz]‍ , [@Taff123]‍ , and [@Anchor1707]‍ . These folks have all been through their treatment and have written personal blogs about their journeys. I know that many members have found the blogs helpful with lots of information. 

We have a team of nurses here at CRUK that you're welcome to call and chat things through for some advice and support if you ever need to. They're available Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm on 0808 800 4040. 

Keep in touch Basboy and let us know how you get on once treatment starts. I'm sure the community will do their best to offer some advice and support. 

Best wishes, 
Jenn
Cancer Chat moderator 

Hi bas b oy welcome to the club none of us want to join bu here you are. I was 61 h j p v positive tonsil cancer  T2N2Nm. I am retired so hard to say about work it all depends what you do I know a few who took at least 6 month which I woujd say is average. 
I have a blig it may help you. 
www.radioactiveraz.Wordpress.com if you've any questions messsge or send a try's s request  

it's hard but if u fan DJ if anyone can 

Hazel x

Thanks Jenn for you help, I'll look up the Blogs you mentioned 

Hi Hazel, thanks so much for replying and so glad you're now well on down the road with your recovery. I'll check the link to your blog and the other users posts so I can best try to understand and plan for whats about to come. 

cheers

Jim

Hi Jim. No problem any questions ask will help if I can 

take it one day at a time 

h p v cancers are extremely curable ok treatment s tough but results are worth it 

ive biked 75 k thus eeek walked 35 not bad for a 64 year young one 

Hazel x

Hi Basboy

Sorry to hear of your diagnosis and yes you will face a few challenges,

To be honest, there is no easy answer regarding when you are likely be able to return to work or advise your employer. Your GP will continue to sign you off as long as needed.

A lot will depend on how well your recovery goes and your body will in the main dictate timelines.

Also depends type work you do.

I work long hours with high concentration required on a computer and I went back to work too early and had to be signed off again. That said we are all different and there are many factors that will play into this.
At this stage it's basically how long is a piece of string and your recovery period can be quite challenging and require quite a bit of time off.
I had the Dentist as well and teeth extraction before radiotherpy.

I also kept a blog from the get go and details all my timelines/return to work/pleanty tips etc and may help put some of this into perspective.
Repeat we are all different and some may have slightly different recovery times but in the main, the side effects and issues are pretty much standard for all.

That said, one of my matras was the fact there is light at the end of the tunnel and you wil come through all this.

Hope helps and feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or if you wish a one ot one communication.

radiotherapythroat.home.blog

Kind regards

Ian

Hi Hazel and Ian thanks for your support and taking the time to reply. Had a few days break away before starting treatment tomorrow (chemo + RT).

I've had a read through your great blogs and have a great idea of what to expect now. Its hard to explain, but somehow talking to you both who've been in this position and drawing from your experiences and recommendations makes me feel that I'm not alone in all this. 

My job is quite mentally demanding and office computer based with lots of distractions too 

Im recovering nicely from the surgery with speech now ok and swallowing much easier as well. Had a few visits to the dentist ready for the treatment and have been prescribed a high fluoride toothpaste to use. I've got hold of those soft tooth brushes and have invested in a waterfloss unit also which I gotta say, first impressions I'm very impressed with. 

I'm waiting to see what else I get prescribed before going out and buying the other recommnded items and meds you both have used to help. Oh yeah and not forgetting to start drinking plenty of water.

I guess we're all different and recoveries will differ and like you both say its time to let your body dictate the pace.

Being positive now but also know how tough the following couple of months may be.

Hazel amazing energy and recovery truly not bad for a young one!...

Thanks both