David’s Story

Site created on March 30, 2018

D I A G N O S I S 

A year ago a small scab appeared on my dad's left ear. The mohs procedure was performed and a biopsy determined the lesion to be a squamous cell carcinoma. 

Fast forward, one year later! Sudden discomfort and pain perceived as stiffness appeared in the left aspect of the neck followed by the feeling of fullness. A small mass was felt under the left ear where the squamous cell carcinoma had been removed. 

After consultation with a head and neck oncology surgeon, thorough examination, biopsy of the mass, CT scan and PET scan, diagnosis was determined to be parotid glad malignant tumor. 4 separate tumors were seen on the CT scan with lymph node involvement. 

Fortunately, as per the PET scan no further lymph node or tumor involvement was detected anywhere else on the body.  

T R E A T M E N T 

The treatment plan is to be initiated immediately and includes surgery on April 3rd followed by (after healing progresses) PROTON radiation for six weeks. Due to the age and my dad’s stellar health, the prognosis is very good and a positive outcome is expected. 

Updates to follow.... 

Please keep my dad in your thoughts and prayers :) 

Newest Update

Radiation Nation

Journal entry by Lauren Nesslein —

Hiii All!

I apologize for not giving more frequent updates! Just wanted to let you know that my Dad is doing great! He only has 7 more radiation treatments and then (hopefully) we are in the clear! 6 weeks has gone by so quickly and we are very very thankful! 

Here’s a photo of what the mask he wears everyday looks like. He is having the hospital art crew paint it like a face from KISS 🤪 

Thank you for all your support along the way ♥️
Read More of the journal titled "Radiation Nation"
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