OBJECTIVES: I. Assess the toxic effects of vinorelbine given on a weekly schedule combined with standard whole pelvic radiation therapy. II. Determine the Maximum Tolerated Dose (MTD) of vinorelbine given on a weekly schedule combined with standard whole pelvic radiation therapy. III. Access the toxic effects of paclitaxel given weekly in combination with the regimen determined to be the MTD of vinorelbine. IV. Determine the MTD of paclitaxel given weekly in combination with the regimen determined to be the MTD of vinorelbine.