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JWR had cancer that involved his jaw bone
19 years ago. This is his story.
My story started late in 1983. I had noticed a
small lump about the size of a small pea on my
jawbone. I was not concerned but my wife insisted
I see my GP.
My GP examined me and gave me a letter to take
to St Luke’s Hospital. A few days later I
got to see Mr Froggat, who along with another
doctor, wanted me in hospital for a biopsy. Later,
after the biopsy, I was sent to see Dr Ward at
Bradford Royal Infirmary who confirmed that the
lump was cancer. He arranged for me to have radiotherapy
at Cookridge Hospital which I attended for 20
days (excluding weekends). The staff were very
friendly and helpful, during and after the treatment.
Following the radiotherapy, I attended follow-up
clinics. After three I was declared free of this
cancer. I was a very happy man!
Years went by. Then my jawbone started aching
and I developed a swelling. I saw my GP again.
He treated me for the pain and arranged an appointment
at BRI (ENT). By the time of consultation, a red
lump had appeared near the hinge of my jaw. This
was removed for biopsy immediately. Another biopsy
was taken later (on Xmas eve morning). Later,
I had further x-rays and scans, (the stitches
from the biopsy were not holding due to skin damage.
From the scan it was seen that my jawbone was
a very poor state. I was sent on to see Mr Ivan
Foo who told me that the damage to my jawbone
and skin was due to my previous radiotherapy.
Following a couple of consultations, Mr Foo explained
to me the procedure he would do. (By this time
I was in agonising pain despite taking strong
painkillers).
He arranged for me to have a tube placed in my
abdomen to feed myself direct. I entered W19 BRI
for the operation in June ’97. The operation
took place as arranged. I was given a pill on
Wednesday night, before the operation the next
morning, and can remember nothing else until wakening
at 03:00am on Friday. My first thought was that
I could move my head without pain (thank you,
Mr Foo). After discharge, I attended W19 for dressings
in Mr Foo’s clinics. Later at St Luke’s,
I saw Dr Joshi to have dentures made. I still
attend Dr Joshi’s clinic and all is going
well. Surprisingly, I have not had pain at all
to this day.
Thanks to all the doctors and staff, including
the district nurses who provided aftercare at
home involved in my care.
JWR
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