If you are a smoker, then try to stop smoking. Your hospital team can refer you to a smoking cessation advisor. They will help and support you to quit smoking and advise you about nicotine replacement, which is available on prescription.

Speak to your GP or Specialist Nurses about a prescription exemption certificate. Having a cancer diagnosis entitles you to free prescriptions.

Reduce alcohol intake to a maximum of 3 units per day (e.g. one 250ml glass of wine or one and a half pints of normal strength beer/lager). If you need support to reduce your alcohol intake, please speak to your Specialist Nurse.

Eat a well-balanced, high calorie diet. If you need help with this please follow the advice given by your dietitian.

Seek support from your family and friends – you will need their help to get you through. Talk about your diagnosis and what treatment involves.

You may want to contact Heads2gether (H2G): The national head and neck cancer support group. H2G members have already made the journey from diagnosis to recovery.

If you have concerns about the financial impact of cancer, call the Macmillan Oxford Citizens Advice Bureau benefits service in the Radiotherapy department.

Feel free to bring a relative or friend with you to the clinic visits; they may be able to support you and help remember what has been discussed.