Hello ZAP, several things we have in common; same state (we're neighbors!), same cancer, same age kids as mine when I was diagnosed. The above advice is great, you have Mayo within reach if you can arrange it. Mayo is ranked number 6 nationally (pretty hard to beat) That is not to say you have poor care where you are but it is all about the numbers. What ever you do hit this cancer with everything you can. The road is a bit bumpy but you can do it. Feel free to contact me privately if you need or want to. Ask questions here anytime.
Take care.

Mark, 21 Year survivor, SCC right tonsil, 3 nodes positive, one with extra-capsular spread. I never asked what stage (would have scared me anyway) Right side tonsillectomy, radical neck dissection right side, maximum radiation to both sides, no chemo, no PEG, age 40 when diagnosed.