His treatment resulted in a loss of mouth functionality, including speaking and swallowing.He is now only able to open his mouth 1.5 centimeters, requiring him to rely on a feeding tube. After losing over 70 pounds during treatment, his doctor suggested he take a leave of absence from work.
Joseph is a father to an 11 and 9-year old. Due to the loss of income, the family lost their home and moved in with Joseph’s mother. Joseph and his wife were sleeping in reclining chairs – the children also had no beds.