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I was diagnosed with Squamous Cell Carcinoma Base of Tongue cancer Stage IV in 1998 even though I did not feel sick at all. After two different Cancer Centers (UofPA, MD Anderson) they both said the same thing. The strongest chemo available for 3 months. Radiation starting at week 7 for 3 months. Radical neck dissection which would have left me with a permanent trach and stomach feeding tube. The chance of 5 yr survival was 30% but with possible lethal side affects from the chemo. I was 38 at the time and opted to live out what the doctors said would be 3-6 months on a 37' boat in the Gulf of Mexico.

Well two years later I still felt fine and went back to work which for me is not just a job but a passion. Everything was well until a few months ago when I have had to go to Hopkins to see what was happening. They were so shocked to discover not only I had beaten the cancer for so long, but that I had done no treatments at all (I had not seen a doctor in six years, not even for a cold). They declared me a miracle.

They were honest with me and said that treatment hadn't changed much and conceded that the treatments didn't really work but were there to give patients hope. I inquired about alternative treatment and was informed that if it is not approved by the FDA they cannot talk about it or even direct me to where I may be able to seek alternative treatment except to say that I should look on-line. When I asked how long they thought I had to live the doc said "I would say weeks but you have already proven us wrong so I won't try and give you any numbers"

Since I was diagnosed almost 8 years ago, two other friends were diagnosed with the same cancer and they both opted for the "cure". Unfortunately they are both dead.

I am currently seeking a doctor who will administer Vitamin C injections and Oxygen therapy. If you have any ideas for docs in the Phila area please respond.

No2

Congrats! I had a friend who recently died in her 90s who rejected chemo after her 2 mastectomies which were performed at separate times many yrs ago. Said all her friends who had cancer of the breast underwent the traditional chemo/radiation and all died within a few yrs. She outlived them all and eventually died of unrelated old age factors. She always referred to chemo as "that poison".

Wait . . . don't yell at me you all . . . I also acknowledge a friend who had a "fist sized" cancerous lump removed about 3 yrs ago, underwent chemo and radiation and so far seems to be doing fine. I think every body responds differently to whatever menace attacks, and we have to respond individually. The thought of the state being in charge gives me the willies.