My journey began when I noticed a small lump on my neck in 2012. I underwent the whole ritual: biopsies, MRIs, CT scans. Antibiotics made it go away, leading my doctors to believe it wasn’t cancerous. But, the lump returned, and it was much larger than before. My medical team operated on my neck and no cancer was detected. I was so relieved once it was all over.
Then, all hell broke loose. In the winter of 2015, I felt a sensation at the back of my throat, almost like a popcorn kernel was lodged there. I inspected my mouth using a flashlight and instantly knew something was really wrong—my uvula appeared elongated. I immediately sought medical help and the doctor's words left me numb: stage 4 tonsil, tongue and lymph node cancer. My world crumbled. All I wanted was more time with my family, so I endured chemotherapy, then radiation. I finished treatment in 2016, and for a while, things were okay.
Two years later, I visited my dentist after noticing what I thought were pieces of my teeth falling out. Turns out, they weren't teeth at all, but bone fragments—my jawbone was actively deteriorating due to the radiation and chemotherapy treatments I received.
I was sent to an oral surgeon in Guelph and when they ran out of options, I was referred to Dr. Adrian Mendez at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC). Dr. Mendez prescribed a concoction of drugs to strengthen my jawbone, reserving surgery as a last resort.
The complications from my treatment took a significant mental toll on me. While radiation and chemotherapy undeniably saved my life, the side-effects left me feeling worse than before. One day, I was on the golf course, and I met a woman who instantly recognized I was having some medical issues. We began talking and the woman revealed she had throat cancer 17 years ago and she was thriving now. I will never forget meeting her; she gave me hope. If she could do it, so could I.
In late 2021, I heard a sudden pop while enjoying a slice of pizza, signaling the inevitable: my jaw was failing and I needed surgery.
Leading up to the day of my procedure, I was very anxious. I told Dr. Mendez I was concerned my three-year-old grandson would be afraid of my altered appearance after the surgery. His genuine empathy and expertise instilled confidence in me. In the end, the surgery went incredibly well. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Mendez for his compassion and skill.
I understand discussing or reflecting on medical struggles can be difficult, but sharing our experiences can be a powerful source of hope for others. Just like the woman I met on the golf course, I want fellow patients to know that despite the challenges I've faced, I'm doing incredibly well. The journey may be difficult, but you are not alone and you can get through this. I know because I’ve lived it.
As my appointment approaches, I'm slowly summoning the courage to confront whatever treatments or procedures might lie ahead. Dr. Mendez has been critical in guiding me through my care and helping me move forward. I must keep fighting so I can be here for a long time to continue loving my husband, my children and my three grandchildren.