Oracle launches new webinar series to support Head & Neck Cancer Patients
Oracle Head & Neck Cancer has launched its new webinar series for anyone newly diagnosed with head and neck cancer.
First in the series 'I've just been diagnosed. What now?" features retired Consultant Oncologist Professor Dr Mehmet Sen and patient speaker Hazel Turner. They share expert advice and personal experience to help patients and their families navigate the early stages of a diagnosis.
Understanding your diagnosis: Dr Mehmet Sen
Dr Mehmet Sen is a retired consultant clinical oncologist with over 35 years' experience. Dr Sen was clinical lead for head and neck oncology at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and is now an Oracle trustee.
Dr Sen explained why a head and neck cancer diagnosis can feel especially frightening: The area affects breathing, swallowing, eating, speech and appearance, all at once. He described how "head and neck cancer" actually covers many different diseases across different sites; mouth, throat, voice box, nasal passages, each behaving differently, and highlighted the sharp rise in HPV-related oropharyngeal (throat) cancers over the past 20 years. He also outlined how multidisciplinary teams of 40-plus specialists review every case, why a stage 4 diagnosis doesn't always mean incurable, and the main treatment options available; surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
His key message throughout: every patient should have every question answered before agreeing to treatment.
Living with and after treatment: Hazel Turner's story
Oracle Voices member Hazel Turner, diagnosed with HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer in 2018, shared her journey from diagnosis through treatment to life today, eight years on. Her advice for the newly diagnosed:
- Avoid "Dr Google" - lean on your clinical team instead
- Don't fear a feeding tube if offered - it can be a lifeline
- Take someone with you to appointments to listen and take notes
- Keep a symptom diary, and don't rush big decisions early on
- Recovery is a marathon, not a sprint
A candid Q&A
Attendees asked about dental care during radiotherapy, laser therapy for mucositis, follow-up schedules and managing recurrence. The session included a conversation with a patient whose cancer has returned, a reminder that support matters at every stage, not just at diagnosis.
Oracle Head & Neck Cancer's next webinar, on the late effects of treatment, takes place on 10 September 2026. Details and sign-up information will be shared soon on our website and social media channels.
If you've been affected by anything discussed in this webinar and would like support, please get in touch with Oracle Head & Neck Cancer or join our Facebook support group.
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