I had surgery in June to remove two tumors of the parotid gland and was told they were benign at first and then my surgeon discovered that they were low margin, slow growing and cancerous. I finished 7 weeks of radiation therapy three weeks ago and was told at the time that I am cancer free. However, despite the fact I am elated over this truly great news I am experiencing terrible side effects (sore throat, dry mouth, no saliva) and worst of all , a loss of taste. I am losing a lot of weight and find it hard to eat anything solid or even drink the suggested milkshakes. And I am someone who loved to eat and cook. I read your email and was given some hope although. I was told by my radiation oncologist and the nurses at the cancer center that my taste may not come back ...for quite some time...if ever. Could you tell me about how your taste came back, when it came back and did you take any zinc sulfate to help it come back? Any information would be so appreciated. I am beginning to be very depressed and scared. Thank you.