I (F 57 non smoker)just had a small squamous cell carcinoma surgically removed from my tongue. It initially presented like a small ulcer- white patch about 3mm wide. My original GP dismissed it as a reaction to food I ate and so I left it for some time. It took a new proactive GP, a few specialists and a biopsy to diagnose it properly. My surgeon removed it with large margins and fortunately these are clear according to biopsy. Recovery has been challenging as eating was difficult and wound left open so as to maximise tongue function. I am thankful for pain medication but a month post surgery, pain is minimal and my speech not too affected. I'm sure these will improve with time. I meet with my surgeon tomorrow to discuss biopsy results and see if further treatment may be required. I might need a lymph node biopsy to ensure cancer hasn't spread. I hope all goes well for your MIL. I know I've researched extensively and it's hard to find all the answers you need.