Journey of a Taper

Wasn’t even sure I should post this but what the hell. Found out today I have a very rare form of cancer that is on the base of my tongue, neck, and some small areas around my head and neck. Going in for a full body scan on Monday to make sure it hasn’t spread to the rest of my body. We knew it was cancer but not this bad. Stage 3 Salivary gland squamous cell carcinoma. (actually has a bigger name which I forget) Only a few hundred cases in the last 5 years so no information on how to treat it properly.

The tumor is a slow growing one so that is good news. Unfortunately, it is so rare that there just isn’t data to show the best treatment. The doctor suggested surgery and chemo/radiation therapy. I am in for a minimum of 2 surgeries as the one on my neck may be impossible to remove, but he’ll try.

So yes, it’s quite the downer here today. The doctor said I am in for some of the worst treatment there is. That sure made my day.

Suboxone now is on the back burner and once again I’ll need to get down to 1mg before my first surgery, which will be in less than three weeks. I have been taking more since I first got diagnosed a few days ago. Felt I deserved it. Anything to numb my feelings and rid my brain of this depression.

Not much more to ad. From here on in there is a lot of work to do. This one I’ll be battling for the rest of my life.

Thanks all for your support.