Oropharynx Squamous Cell Carcinoma - What's Next?

I am blessed because I have a loving wife and two amazing kids.

I love the Buffalo Sabres and have been a loyal fan since day 1.

The Buffalo Bills are truly Americas team and I have been a fan since birth!

I am incredibly fortunate because I have had time to emotionally prepare myself for this...

I am incredibly blessed that I have an unbelievably loving support system...

I am incredibly fortunate that with the proper treatment my prognosis is good...

I am thankful that I have a team of doctors that are diligent and compassionate...

I am painfully aware that, sadly, there are people that may not be as fortunate...

I think of those people often and pray for them often. I pray they find comfort. I pray that they have people in their lives that help get them through the tough times. I pray that they have people in their lives to celebrate the small victories as well as the large victories.

My problem started in January of 2020. My jaw started to lock up and my range of motion (open/close) was significantly reduced. I couldn't open my mouth to eat anything significant. April rolled around and I literally could not open my mouth. Because of covid, it was next to impossible to get a doctor's appointment. I was able to get an online appointment and the doctor was convinced it was a really bad case of TMJ. I was prescribed antibiotics, steroids, and muscle relaxants. None of which helped at all. I went to several doctors (quick care and virtual), a trip to the emergency room, and consulted several dentists. All were convinced it was TMJ. I tried to make appointments with several ENT's but none would see me because they didn't treat TMJ.

My wife finally contacted a doctor that I have seen frequently over the past several years and told him the summary of what's been going on. He got me into an ENT almost immediately and he suspected cancer almost immediately. A few days later I had a biopsy to confirm that I do in fact have Oropharynx Squamous Cell Carcinoma.  I have since seen a doctor and his team that will develop my radiation treatment. Unfortunately, before I can begin my radiation treatment I will have to have oral surgery to remove all my teeth.  I have an appointment on Monday with the doctor that will develop my chemotherapy treatment. Things are moving rapidly and it's a bit overwhelming at times but I trust the team and trust that God has a plan for all of this.

Radiation will be administered every day and is planned for 7 weeks. Chemotherapy will likely be administered once a week for 7 weeks.

I am fortunate that I have health insurance and an additional cancer policy, but with everything happening so rapidly it doesn't come as quickly as we need it and it never really covers all that needs covering. 

The first major hurdle in the process, and my biggest fear, is the oral surgery to remove my teeth. The second will be when all the treatment is done I will be evaluated for whether dentures or implants will be the best option.

I apologize for the long story. Unfortunately, it has become an all to the familiar story for so many people. I know that there are so many people in much worse shape than I am in.

If you feel led to help us I will be unbelievably grateful. I know there are so many people that are in a need. Please consider them as well. 

I can't speak for everyone, but my anxiety is at an all-time high with the pending treatment plan. Your donations will be so appreciated as will your prayers.

Thank you for taking the time to read this

Sincerely, 

Danny