Nicki, I am sure the impact of knowing someone losing his/her battle after fighting courageously is very traumatic on the caregivers and patients still under treatment. Tonsil cancer is very rare in Hong Kong and people around have little knowledge about it. They also comforted me by saying that it is a relatively treatable cancer compared to lung or liver. I don't know why they have such concept because I know tonsil cancer can be fatal too especially I am at a stage 4b. But I just write now not to scare you more but to give you support and hope. I am one of the survivors who made through the ordeal and am having a new normal for 3 years. Back to my previous full time job and travelling around.It is inevitable that we will hear sad news on this forum from time to time but it is important that we balance ourselves with a more positive attitude and overcome ourselves with higher spirits. Ventilation is essential but don't let your fear and worry dominate the family for too long.As a 'senior' member of the tonsil family, I am ready to give you my full support and if you wish, you can email me anytime for questions. My best wishes to you and Thomas.

Karen