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Updates (contd): 

    29th December 2006: Both my dentist and consultant surgeon are sure the ulcer problem in my cheek is traumatic rather than clinical. The delicate skin is more prone to damage after the radiotherapy so I will have to be extra careful with oral hygiene. My review also included an examination with the nasendoscope to check the original tumour site and adjacent area. Thankfully this proved negative for any abnormalities. Amazingly, over the past couple of months, my appetite has begun to return, which makes meal times more satisfying. My reviews are now back to six months.

 16th May 2007: Another clinical review has passed with everything, I'm pleased to say, looking normal. My consultant informed me that head and neck cancers were most likely to reoccur during the first two years after treatment, which is reassuring for me. It is now well over four years since my successful radiotherapy, and the legacy of permanent after effects are easily managed and have a minimal impact on my quality of life. My next review is scheduled for November.

4th November 2007: Today's clinical review confirmed all is still normal after what is now five years from the end of my radiotherapy. It is a milestone I am very happy to have achieved. My appetite has now almost fully returned and I am gaining weight as a consequence. Reviews will now be at twelve monthly intervals. I finally finish work at the end of December and am looking forward to enjoying the retirement years I once thought lost.