Yesterday we went to see the oncologist. C is going to betreated by daily M-F radiation for 6 to 8 weeks combined with chemotherapy at the same time.

He has to have a PET scan in Vancouver before they start treatment. The doctor expects the PET to be scheduled in 2 weeks or so. The reason for this is that they want to confirm that there is only 1 lymph node involved as it affects thelevel of radiation given to the other side of his neck. We expect treatment to start shortly after that, so probably in about 2-3 weeks depending on the PET.

They will leave any surgeries (such as removing the neck lump) until after the treatment and only perform them if necessary.

They left the feeding tube up to C, stating about 50% of people actuallyneed them. C is going to try without and get it put in if necessary. The main reason for this is that even with the feeding tube they still want you to eat orally to exercise the muscles otherwise it causes complications later. The oncologist will see him weekly and they will monitor his weight to make sure he is getting enough nutrition (and make him get the tube if he isn't).

However, having said all this, he hasn't seen the radiologist or the chemo doctor and had the PET so this plan is not FINAL.