Hello Dsymae, Wow! I have children about the same ages as yours and I can imagine what you are going through from both perspectives. This time you are going through is perhaps the toughest. Once a plan is developed by the doctors, things change from fear of the unknown to getting on with the fight. Please take my advice and do not go looking for statistics on the web. Statistics will not help you. Each person is unique in how they respond and hope is of great benefit. Sure the negetive thoughts will creep in from time to time just don't let them consume you. It is possible to train your mind to deal with the stress in more productive ways than fear. My heart goes out to you and your son. The road ahead may not be easy but it is a battle that can be won.

I would be interested in hearing what the doctors suggest is the cause.


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.