Patient Videos

Module 1: Understanding Head and Neck Cancer

Katie: How did you find out you had tongue cancer?

In this video, Katie describes how she found out she had tongue cancer. She first noticed a sore on her tongue that didn’t heal and gradually became more painful. When it started affecting her speech and eating, she saw her doctor. After being referred to a specialist, a biopsy confirmed the unexpected diagnosis of tongue cancer.

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Katie: What challenges and successes have you had with your tongue cancer treatment?

In this video, Katie discusses the challenges of her tongue cancer journey, from the shock of diagnosis to coping with painful side effects like mucositis during treatment. She describes feeling isolated at first, but with her mother’s support and outside resources, she found strength. A major success for Katie is being able to speak, taste, and live life fully after treatment.

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Katie: What advice do you have for others on their journey with tongue cancer?

In this video, Katie shares advice for others going through tongue cancer. She emphasizes that while the journey is incredibly hard, there is always hope. She encourages patients to take it day by day, be honest about their emotions, and reach out for support. Katie believes that through vulnerability, resilience, and creativity, it’s possible to find beauty and meaning after cancer.

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James: How did you find out you had Nasopharyngeal Cancer (NPC)?

In this video, James explains how he was diagnosed with stage four nasopharyngeal cancer. In early 2020, he experienced sinus issues and felt something wasn't right, so he pushed for answers. He eventually developed a lump in his neck, which led to a biopsy confirming the cancer had spread. James reflects on the emotional toll and stresses trusting your instincts, self-advocacy, and leaning on a strong support network.

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James: What challenges and successes have you had with Nasopharyngeal Cancer treatment?

In this video, James discusses the challenges of treating nasopharyngeal cancer, including managing intense side effects like fatigue and pain. He shares how the emotional toll affected him and his family but highlights the importance of perseverance. Despite the difficulties, James celebrates successes such as completing treatment and gaining strength through support from loved ones and healthcare providers, which helped him stay hopeful throughout his journey.

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James: What advice do you have for others on their journey with Nasopharyngeal Cancer?

James shares his advice for others on their journey with nasopharyngeal cancer. He emphasizes the importance of staying hopeful and communicating clearly with your medical team about symptoms. Managing nausea and staying hydrated are crucial—even if that means using a feeding tube. James encourages taking the journey one day at a time and prioritizing self-care to navigate treatment challenges.

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This educational activity has been developed by Support for People with Oral and Head and Neck Cancer, Inc. (SPOHNC) in collaboration with Mechanisms in Medicine Inc.

This activity is supported by an independent educational grant from Merck.

Thank you to the funder of You And Head and Neck Cancer. All content is developed independently by SPOHNC and Mechanisms in Medicine Inc., in collaboration with an Expert Faculty group; the funder is allowed no influence on the content of You And Head and Neck Cancer: An Animated Patient^® Guide to Head and Neck Cancer.

Disclaimer: The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor about any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The visuals provided are meant to be representations only. No specific brand is being promoted or endorsed.

This website is part of the Animated Patient^® series developed by Mechanisms in Medicine Inc., to provide highly visual formats of learning for patients to improve their understanding, make informed decisions, and partner with their healthcare professionals for optimal outcomes.