Mouth Cancer

Doctors propose total glossectomy surgery

Laura Marston (or Dizz as she likes to be known) tells her tongue cancer story. She describes how the diagnosis in 2019 of a stage 4 cancer, proposed glossectomy treatment and 30% chances of survival terrified her and sent her into a downward spiral of despair. However, Dizz opted for radiotherapy and chemotherapy and has survived and gives an inspiring account of coming back from the brutal treatment she endured. She has even had immunotherapy!

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Shining Light or Silver Linings as we called them. 

When I was diagnosed with tongue cancer 9 years ago at the age of 43, I had no idea of how much my life would change. I had the life-changing surgery and then the 6 weeks of radiotherapy and returned to work full-time in a nursery attached to a school. My cancer pathway was filled with what my husband and I referred to as “silver linings” and these were important to hold on to.

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A positive view of cancer treatment 

Writing about cancer treatment from a patient’s point of view can be difficult for a number of reasons. The reason for my own difficulty in writing this is a rather unusual one – I want to introduce some positive thoughts about the whole process without sounding patronising, smug, or just plain irritating.

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Finding Hope After Cancer

Jason, 54, was diagnosed with HPV-related tonsil cancer on Christmas Eve 2021—a moment that changed his life overnight. Just two days later, on Boxing Day, he underwent scans and had his tonsils removed, marking the start of an intense treatment journey.

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A Journey of Strength and Self-Advocacy

At 59, Sue knows what it means to fight—and win. Having beaten breast cancer when she was 51, she believed that chapter of her life was behind her. A dedicated NHS occupational therapist supporting people with mental health challenges, at 58, Sue was busy balancing her career and family life when she noticed something unusual: an enlarged lymph node.

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Finding Strength in the Unexpected

At 58 years old, what began as a sore throat, earache, and swollen glands seemed harmless at first. Manda visited her GP, who reassured her it was likely a viral infection and advised her to return if things didn’t improve.

But Manda listened to her instincts. When the symptoms persisted, she went back. This time, she was referred to an ENT specialist and seen within three weeks. Tests revealed something she never imagined: cancer at the base of her tongue.

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