r_stevens@ibm.net
My name is Robert Stevens. I am a 32 years old, and on December 26, 1996 I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma which is a cancer that grows in the nasal passage (or pharynx). I guess you would lump it in with other head and neck cancers although due to the location of the tumor, it is not considered operable.
My symptoms were chronic ear problems, followed by TMJ like symptoms, and lastly a very swollen lymph node in the neck.
Over the next couple of weeks, I was told that I would receive chemo (Cisplatin and 5FU), and Radiation to the head and neck. In preparation for the treatments, I had an infusion port installed and PEG tube installed. PEG tube was necessary because high doses of radiation to the head and neck gives you a 'roasted and toasted' throat which makes it difficult to swallow. I guess I went about 7 months without eating anything solid. I also looked into herbal solutions and vitamins / suplements. I guess I tried anything that sounded logical. I figure it can't hurt!
My doctor (finally) uttered the word remission on September 17th 1997. I think that my healing was aided by a change to eating habits, starting a vitamin / suplement routine, and a FANTASTIC support system which includes my wife, my parents, my inlaws, and my children (2 girls - 7.5 and 1.5) and attending Cancer Support groups both locally and over the internet.