For Carlos Morera, the only indication of oral cancer was a small, seemingly innocuous lump that he discovered beneath his jaw while he was grooming, a moment that would change the course of his health journey.
Given his previous history of cancer, Carlos was acutely aware that a swollen lymph node or a painless lump in the neck were among the most prevalent symptoms of oral cancer, knowledge that only heightened his concerns.
“My first reaction was fear,” reflects Carlos, recalling the moment when he realized the potential severity of his condition. “Having undergone surgery for thyroid cancer just the year prior, I was assured by my doctors that the cancer had been eradicated.”
“I felt a wave of anxiety wash over me after receiving the news,” recalls Carlos, who found himself grappling with the uncertainty of his health. “Initially, I was not comfortable with the treatment plan laid out for me and longed to explore alternative options given the frightening side effects I anticipated.”
After discussing his concerns with his wife, Edleen, they mutually decided to seek out a second opinion. Carlos was eager to consult with MD Anderson, renowned for its exemplary reputation as the nation’s leading cancer hospital and its pioneering work in proton therapy. He was particularly drawn to this advanced form of radiation therapy, which is designed to minimize collateral damage to the surrounding healthy tissues during treatment.
Settling in at MD Anderson for head and neck cancer treatment
In October 2023, Carlos made the journey to Houston for his initial consultation at MD Anderson, where he would meet distinguished head and neck surgeon Ryan Goepfert, M.D.
“Dr. Goepfert reassured me that I was at the best place for my care, and that made me feel comfortable,” shares Carlos, appreciating the confidence imparted by the expert. Instead of recommending immediate surgery, Goepfert referred Carlos to radiation oncologist Steven Frank, M.D., an expert in proton therapy, along with head and neck medical oncologist Renata Ferrarotto, M.D. for chemotherapy.
After a comprehensive dialogue with Dr. Frank about his treatment options, Carlos felt a wave of relief wash over him. “I knew I was being treated by the best of the best and felt extremely thankful for the advantages of proton therapy,” he states, optimistic about the road ahead.
His care team took the time to discuss various supportive measures that could enhance his treatment experience, including the benefits of yoga and acupuncture. “It’s not just about MD Anderson being the best; it’s how they treated us – it was phenomenal,” Edleen noted appreciatively. “From our arrival, their meticulous attention to detail was impeccable.”
Carlos and Edleen made the decision to rent a house in Houston from November until his final treatment in January 2024, ensuring a stable environment during this crucial time. Their four children, who remained in Miami, were able to join them in Houston for the holidays. “It was a relief to know they did not have to witness my treatment struggles,” Carlos remembers, reflecting on the emotional considerations.
Managing side effects from treatment
In November, Carlos embarked on a regimen of 33 daily proton therapy sessions, which ran concurrently with six doses of cisplatin, a robust chemotherapy agent. “I was braced for the worst with the chemotherapy, but to my surprise, I never really felt that bad,” Carlos admits. “My nurse, Shef Ghandi, and nurse practitioner, Ian Moore, kept me well-informed about preventive measures to help me stay ahead of side effects.”
Despite concerns about common side effects like mouth sores, Carlos did not experience them. His diligent care team made it a point to check on him daily to ensure they administered only the necessary medications. To stave off weight loss, Carlos was particularly careful to maintain his usual dietary habits. He adhered to a consistent exercise routine, which included walking twice daily for 15 minutes and practicing yoga a few times a week.
Carlos had initial fears about losing his sense of taste from the radiation treatment, but he was relieved to discover that he only lost his appetite for sweet flavors. “My wife and I gained the opportunity to explore new dining experiences at various restaurants in Houston,” he adds with a hint of gratitude. He scheduled his appointments for the morning, giving him something to look forward to after each session.
“Treating Carlos with proton therapy allowed us to reduce the radiation dose to the anterior tongue, which ultimately helped him maintain his sense of taste,” explains Dr. Frank, highlighting the targeted nature of his treatment.
Reflecting on his experience, Carlos admits that one of the most challenging aspects of proton therapy was the anxiety that often gripped him before each session. His care team proactively prescribed anti-anxiety medication that provided him the calm needed to handle the mask and mouthpiece required for treatment, essential safeguards for both his teeth and jaw.
Engaging in the recommended exercises not only aided in the mitigation of side effects but also served as a crucial component for managing his mental health throughout the ordeal. “Once you let your mind take over with worry, it makes everything harder,” he explains. “With each passing week, I found I was getting mentally stronger, realizing that the experiences weren’t as daunting as I had initially anticipated.”
Life after tongue cancer treatment
As nearly a year has passed since Carlos completed his treatment, he has seamlessly returned to his regular routine, with no significant lingering side effects aside from a refreshing change in perspective. “Now, when my kids drive me crazy, I appreciate them and everything we have so much more,” Carlos reflects with a heartfelt sentiment. “I am genuinely thankful to be back to enjoying everyday life.”
During his treatment journey, Carlos formed a bond with a fellow patient of Dr. Frank who was undergoing similar therapy. They shared insights and encouragement during their weekly discussions. “Having that peer connection proved invaluable as I navigated the various stages of my treatment,” Carlos recalls gratefully.
He also credits Edleen for her unwavering support, which played a pivotal role in his positive outcome. “She is my rock and the reason I did so well throughout treatment,” he asserts. “Her faith and support injected strength into my every day.”
Carlos passionately urges others who find themselves in similar situations to conduct thorough research and familiarize themselves with their treatment options. “Take it day by day. It’s hard not to worry, but remain positive and avoid assuming the worst,” he advises. “Exhibit patience, pray, and hold onto your faith. I feel immensely blessed to have found MD Anderson and its exceptional team of doctors.”
Request an appointment at MD Anderson online or call 1-877-632-6789.
How did Carlos Morera’s support system play a role in his journey through diagnosis and treatment?
Interviewed by a human being, filled with hope, strength, and determination.”
**Interviewer:** Carlos, thank you for joining us today. You’ve been through quite an ordeal. Can you take us back to that moment when you discovered the lump under your jaw? What was going through your mind?
**Carlos Morera:** Thank you for having me. When I discovered the lump, my first reaction was fear. Given my history with thyroid cancer, I was fully aware of the symptoms of oral cancer. That awareness only heightened my anxiety, and I felt a wave of uncertainty about my health.
**Interviewer:** It’s completely understandable to feel that way. You mentioned seeking a second opinion at MD Anderson. What made you feel like that was the right choice for your treatment?
**Carlos Morera:** It was the reputation of MD Anderson that drew me in. I wanted the best care possible, and after speaking with my wife, we agreed it was worth exploring their approach, especially with their use of cutting-edge treatments like proton therapy. Meeting Dr. Goepfert and hearing his reassurance made me feel more comfortable about the journey ahead.
**Interviewer:** You faced a difficult decision regarding your treatment plan. Can you tell us more about that?
**Carlos Morera:** Absolutely. Initially, I was not comfortable with the proposed treatment plan. I had concerns about the side effects of chemotherapy. After a detailed discussion with Dr. Frank, I learned about the targeted nature of proton therapy and felt a sense of relief knowing that this approach would help minimize damage to my healthy tissues.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like your care team really made a difference for you.
**Carlos Morera:** They did! Their support extended beyond just treatment. They made sure to discuss preventive measures to help manage side effects, and I really appreciated that they treated me holistically. The emphasis on yoga and acupuncture added to my sense of well-being throughout the treatment.
**Interviewer:** You highlighted the importance of maintaining a stable environment during treatment. How did you and your family manage that?
**Carlos Morera:** We decided to rent a house in Houston, which provided us with a sense of stability during that crucial time. Although our kids stayed in Miami, they came to visit during the holidays. It was a relief not having them witness my treatment struggles directly.
**Interviewer:** That’s important. You mentioned how well you managed the side effects of treatment. What do you attribute that success to?
**Carlos Morera:** Much of it goes to my care team’s diligence. They kept me well-informed about ways to mitigate the common side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. Staying active and maintaining a healthy diet really helped, too. Plus, I found joy in trying new foods, even when my taste changed.
**Interviewer:** what advice would you give to someone facing a similar diagnosis?
**Carlos Morera:** I’d tell them to stay hopeful and proactive. Seek second opinions, understand your treatment options, and lean on your support network. Managing your mental health is just as crucial as managing physical health. It’s a tough journey, but with the right mindset and care team, it can be navigated successfully.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Carlos. Your journey is truly inspiring, and we wish you continued strength and health as you move forward.
