Welcome, Amanda!

Not much more to add other than what was already said, but your ENT will do a complete head and neck exam, including with fiber optics, order a CT or MRI, and others, in order to make a clinical diagnosis and staging of the cancer, which will help determine the course of treatment, and be presented to a tumor board, if at what some are deemed a cancer center or comprehensive cancer cancer, which include a team of multidisciplinary Doctors and clinical staff.

Everything will seem come fast and furious at times, then it can be hurry-up and wait depending where you are. Massachusetts have great hospitals, and have seen them listed in cancer center listings such as the NCCN, NCI, and top rated by U.S. News Reports Best Hospitals. Of course, depending on insurances, other matters, you're not just limited there, and some do travel throughout the country, more specifically to MD Anderson or NYC, staying at ACS Hope Lodges or other accommodations that hospitals may be set aside for patients.

I came across something in general that was meant for caregivers, but added some things that have helped me or think it would have helped me in the process at certain stages from diagnoses to treatment.

1. Plan ahead
2. Get a 2nd opinion
3. Learn about available resources
4. Educate yourself about this disease
5. Take one day at a time
6. Develop contingency plans
7. Accept Help
8. Do some type of light exercise
9. Get enough sleep and rest
10. Make time for leisure
11. Share your feelings with others

I hope this helps, and good luck.