In Mar 0f 2006 I had a cancerous left primary parotid gland removed . It was a horrid 51/2 hr surgery. Seven weeks of radiation was required to remove cells imbedded I my carotid artery. It was a tortuous time but apparently successful. At my first followup scan 6mos later the cancer was found in both lungs. one lymph node was missed in the original surgery.. I underwent 4 rounds of chemo and was declared cancer free in Mar of 2007. It was nothing short of amazing. But since then I have had thyroid cancer (not unexpected) in 2014. Meanwhile several side effects of the radiation has surfaced. I have lost nearly all hearing I my left ear, and it has also been accompanied by chronic infections. I have been on a regimen of Neomycin/steroid drops for 3 years to no avail. It has become quite painful. A recent check-up with an otologist revealed a breakdown of the inner wall of my ear with exposed bone..The progress for recovery spontaneously.is bleak and surgery probably would not heal. I must avoid water getting in my ear at all costs. So now 11 years out from a very difficult situation, I find myself facing another CTscan and MRI. I am so very happy to have had 11years that I would have missed so very much. I'm not afraid. Fear is no longer part of my makeup. Just wondering if anybody out there has a similar story to tell that might put me a bit more at ease.