Kimberly's Journey: Overcoming Tongue Cancer

Update: We are now moving on to radiation

and chemo in a dual action plan. Also we have plans to move my feeding tube to my stomach and put a port in for chemo.

My name is Kimberly Smith, I am 34 yrs old and live in Prescott Wa. In November 2024 I noticed a painful spot on my tongue. After a few doctor and dentist visits I received a biopsy. Many believed that because of my age cancer wasn't the issue. That biopsy confirmed I have Squamish Cell Carcinoma Cancer on my tongue. March 31st in Walla Walla, I had my first surgery to remove the cancer, at that time they also removed the lymph nodes on the left side. We were very hopeful that they got it all. Unfortunately on April 16th we got the news they missed a small group of cells. I was lucky enough to get a quick referral to Seattle's Swedish Hospital on the 18th.

The next surgery will be on May 9th. This new surgery will be a free flap reconstruction surgery where they plan to remove another 1/3 to half my remaining tongue and use skin grafts to reconstruct my tongue. I will be hospitalized for around 5 to 7 days. Then after I will start the healing process again, along with speech therapy.

We were given a list of hotels in the area and parking options. These were pretty eye opening numbers. If you choose to donate, monies collected will be used for travel expenses, food, lodging, parking, upcoming after surgery appointments, and any other costs associated with the surgery and recovery process for my cancer.

This is definitely an unexpected set back but we are hoping that we can avoid radiation or chemotherapy with this second surgery.

I appreciate all my family and friends who have been sending all the healing prayers and vibes my way! Thank you all!