:wink:Hi! I'm new here and wish I would've found this a long time ago, it looks like a lot of people are getting the help they seek.

In case you're wondering, my screen name is because my face was paralyzed when I had a 4th tumor removed from my salivary (spit) gland. I've had reconstructive surgery since and look somewhat better but that's OK.

I was radiated 20 years ago when I had that 4th tumor, but did not have cancer-they thot they could shrink it b4 surgery and stop any furture ones from growing. Wrong! It didn't shrink & I had 3 more. I also now have peripheral neuropathy, tarlov cysts, Raynaud's, thyroiditis & nodules, heart something, stomach stuff, one vocal cord, one ear drum, can close one eye and have a lot of trouble swallowing. I was FRIED and am on the brink of skin cancer. I don't remember it all but whatever was involved with any cranial nerves is why I have a problem. I just take medication, get tested once a year & suffer in the middle, so far that's all that's been happening. Except for the denerving-it's scarring (looks like eating away to me) at my jaw muscle, tissue, skin, tongue, gum, bones, neck muscles, shoulders, nerves all the way down to my fingertips. The muscle in my hand looks like part of it's missing-is anyone else experiencing that? I have an appt. with a new neurologist who specializes in neuromuscular diseases.

I also have a marvelous sense of humor, so that and my faith in the Lord is what's pulling me through. Do I have bouts of depression? You bet. If I hadn't been radiated, I might not be sick.

I am also the mother of one married son & grandmother of 3, they will be moving to Asia to teach in the fall & will be gone for 4 years. I'm hoping I'm strong enough to make the 18 hour one way trip, but I'm not sure.

I like to sew, crochet, read, spend time online, write poetry, redecorate, dance (as much as I can), watch old black & white movies, shop, & spend time w/friends.

That's partially who I am.